In recent years, the global egg market has experienced significant disruptions. Commercial egg prices have become increasingly volatile due to outbreaks of avian flu and vulnerabilities in the supply chain. These challenges have exposed the risks associated with concentrated production models. For example, during the 2024–2025 avian flu crisis, over 50 million egg-laying birds were…
Ever stared blankly at your flock, wondering if that’s really Beatrice pecking near the coop, or just her sneaky doppelgänger, Bertha? If your chickens look more like identical feathered clones than individuals, you’re not alone! Keeping track of who’s who is crucial for monitoring health, egg production, breeding, or just knowing which hen is sneaking…
South Africa’s poultry industry faces significant threats from Newcastle Disease (ND), Infectious Bursal Disease (Gumboro), Avian Influenza (HPAI), and other pathogens. A disciplined vaccination program is critical to protect flocks, ensure productivity, and meet export standards. Below is the industry-standard schedule, aligned with guidelines from the South African Poultry Association (SAPA) and the Department of…
Mycotoxins—toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain species of filamentous fungi—are among the most pervasive, yet often underestimated, threats to modern poultry production systems. These invisible contaminants are primarily produced by three genera of fungi: Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Penicillium. They infiltrate feed ingredients at multiple stages: during crop growth in the field, or later during storage…
On May 28, 2025, an unexpected and alarming development unfolded in British Columbia’s poultry industry. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) received urgent reports of unexplained bird deaths at two commercial squab pigeon farms in Chilliwack, a region known for its vibrant agricultural activity. Just one week later, on June 4, laboratory confirmation revealed a…
Broiler chickens face a unique and critical challenge in hot weather. Their rapid growth rate, high metabolic heat production, and dense stocking make them exceptionally vulnerable to heat stress. Unlike backyard layers, even moderate heat waves can trigger devastating consequences: reduced feed intake, plummeting weight gain, increased FCR (Feed Conversion Ratio), dehydration, organ failure, and…
Summer sunshine might be welcome, but soaring temperatures pose a serious threat to our feathered friends. Chickens are remarkably inefficient at cooling themselves – they can’t sweat! Instead, they rely on panting, holding wings away from their bodies, and reducing activity. When the mercury climbs, heat stress becomes a real danger, leading to reduced egg…
In today’s fast-paced world, the agricultural sector—particularly poultry farming—demands more efficiency than ever before. For farmers who specialize in layer poultry farming, managing flocks, tracking egg production, and maintaining optimal health are critical for profitability and sustainability. One tool that is transforming the industry is layer farm management software. What is Layer Farm Management Software?…
Poultry farming plays a vital role in meeting the growing global demand for protein-rich food products. However, managing a poultry farm efficiently requires meticulous attention to various aspects such as inventory management, health monitoring, production planning, and financial tracking. To address the complexities of modern poultry farming, farmers are increasingly turning to technology-driven solutions, such…
Imagine you’re treading through a patch of uncharted land, much like an intrepid explorer venturing into unexplored territory. As you navigate the maze of rules and regulations, you stumble upon a topic that piques your curiosity: backyard egg selling laws in New York. What are the ins and outs of this intriguing area? How can…
