Cobb Hatchery Management Guide

www.cobb-vantress.com COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 01 Hatchability 2 11 Altitude 50

02 Hatchery Performance Indicators 5 11.1 Oxygen Availability...... 50

11.2 Moisture Loss...... 51 03 Hatching Egg Management 7 11.3 Chick Quality and Mortality...... 51 3.1 Key Points of Egg Storage...... 8 12 Maintenance 52 3.2 Optimum Egg Storage Conditions...... 9

3.3 Impacts of Egg Storage ...... 11 13 Hatchery Automation 54

3.4 Heat Treating Eggs...... 12 14 Hatchery Design 55 3.5 Pre-warming Eggs...... 13 14.1 Building Structure...... 56 04 Incubator Operation 14 14.2 .Hatchery Ventilation Configurations...... 58 4.1 Ventilation ...... 15

14.3 Incubator and Hatcher Exhaust Plenum COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT 4.2 Temperature Control...... 15 Configurations...... 60 4.3 Humidity and Egg Moisture Loss...... 21 15 Hatchery Sanitation 62 4.4 Turning...... 26 15.1 Movement Through the Hatchery...... 63 05 Egg Transfer 28 15.2 Cleaning and Disinfection...... 65

06 Factors Influencing Chick Size 31 15.3 Biosecurity...... 68

16 Records 69 07 Hatcher Operation 32 GUIDE

7.1 The Hatch Window...... 32 17 Embryo Diagnosis 71

7.2 Temperature...... 36 17.1 Recording Breakout Data...... 73 7.3 Ventilation and Humidity...... 38 17.2 Tracking Contaminated Eggs...... 75

7.4 Adjusting the Hatcher Environment...... 39 A Appendices

08 Chick Take-Off and Process 40 Hatching Egg Grading Guide 77

8.1 Chick Yield Calculations...... 40 Embryo Development Chart 78

8.2 Feather Sexing Broiler Chicks...... 44 Common Causes of Embryonic Death 79

8.3 Chick Grading...... 45 Diagnosis of Hatching Issues 80

09 Hatchery Waste Disposal 47 Chick Hatching Positions 81

Chick Grading Guide 82 10 Transportation 48 Measurements and Conversions 83

Formulas and Calculations 84 COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 1 INTRODUCTION these principlesasrelatedtobroilerbreedingstockandhighlightthemainaspectsofhatchery maximum hatchabilityandproducinggoodqualitydayoldchicks.Thisguideisdesignedtoexplain A soundunderstandingoftheprinciplesinvolvedinincubatingeggsandhatchingchicksisvitalfor Introduction practices thatyouchoosetoadopt. around theworld.Youmustbeawareoflocallegislations,whic h mayinfluencethemanagement Our recommendationsarebasedoncurrentscientificknowledge andpracticalexperiencefrom Technical Representativeisalsoavailabletoanswerquestions youmayhave. resources includingarticles,posters,andvideosthatcanbe accessedfromourwebsite.YourCobb supply andcontinuingtothedeliveryofbroilersforprocessing.Cobbalsooffersothertechnical vantress.com/resource) toprovidetechnicalinformationbeginningwithreceivingbreedingstock Breeder andBroilerManagementGuidessupplements(availableat:https://www.cobb- your knowledgeandjudgmenttoobtainthebestresults.ThispublicationalignswithCobb This guideisprovidedasasupplementtoyourhatcherymanagementskillssothatyoucanapply management fromeggproductiontochickdelivery. and thewelfareoutcomes ofthechicksbeingdelivered tothefarm. important aspects ofmanagementtoimprovepoultry welfareoutcomesthroughoutthe hatchery Look forthis Cobb Cares Animal WelfareTips

symbol throughout theguidethathighlightsAnimal WelfareTipsand Resources >Management Guides Cobb HatcheryManagement guideisavailableonline under COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 2 HATCHABILITY 1 Please Each Cobb product line has specific standards for hatchability. Please refer to the corresponding product supplement for this information (see https://www.cobb-vantress.com/resource). is: X 100 = Percentage of hatchability percentage of hatchability The formula to calculate Number of Chicks Hatched Number of Eggs Incubated Formula 1 farms and hatcheries is a good way to improve results and efficiency. and consistently. Both positive as well as the farm should be communicated rapidly Feedback to produce good results in hatching egg negative feedback are useful to consistently production and first-quality chicks. Hatchability is influenced by many factors. Some of these are the responsibility of the how Understanding hatchery. responsibility of the the others are and farm breeding the Although production. improve used to each factor impacts hatchability can be factors, indicators at the hatchery can be hatchery may have no control over certain for essential is it Thus, hatchability. and fertility improve to farm the to feedback as used Collecting and sharing data between the farm and hatchery to work closely together. ubated, is normally termed termed as a percentage of all eggs incubated, is normally produced. This number, expressed of any hatchery is the number of chicks The measure of success hatchability. Hatchability

COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 3 HATCHABILITY n help with breeder flock investigation and corrective actions. chicks. Ifthehatchery reportseggdefects,chickquality concerns,andembryo mortality resultstoproductionteams,nhelpwithbreeder thiscaflockinvestigationandcorrective actions. Breeder flockhealth statusiscloselylinkedtoeggquality. Goodcommunication betweenthehatcheryandproduction teamsiscriticaltomanagehealth, welfareandqualityoutcomes for and temperatures, and in turn, can serve as auditing and troubleshooting tools. and temperatures,inturn,canserveasauditingtroubleshooting tools. Egg Storage also damagethecuticleleavingeggvulnerabletocontamination. Ingeneral,cleannesteggshavehigherhatchabilityandproducebetterqualitychicks. higher bacterialcountsontheshell.Flooreggscanalsobeasource ofcontaminationtoothereggs.Washingeggscanreducethenumberbacteriaontheshell,but Egg Sanitation Genetics behavior, spikingevents,andotherenvironmentalmanagementfactors(e.g.availabilityoffood,space,ventilation,temperatur e). Mating Activity Disease or mid-termembryonicmortality.Chemicaladditivesincludingmedicationsandtoxinscanalsonegativelyimpacthatchability. quality chick poor with associated be to tend diet maternal the in issues Nutritional hatchability. to detrimental be can nutrients certain of excess as well as Deficiencies Breeder Nutrition of decline in female fertility and male sperm quality. of declineinfemalefertilityandmalespermquality. Correct MaleandFemaleBodyweight www.cobb-vantress.com/resource) can alsoreducehatchability. exchange. Likecracks,damagetothecuticlecanincreasemoisturelossandembryonicmortality.Placingeggsupsidedown(poi nted endsupwards)androughhandling also be a point of entry for bacteria leading to infection and embryonic mortality. The cuticle is the first line of defense from bacterial contamination and regulates gaseous Egg Handling duce hatchability. – Infectionwithspecificaviandiseasescancauseabnormalitiesineggshapesand/orshell(colorandthickness)aswellreducehatchability.

– Hatchabilitymayvarydependingonthegeneticline.Checkourguidesandsupplementsfordataregardinghatchabilityofeach geneticline(availableat:https://

– Temperature fluctuations and storage time can both negatively influence hatchability. Temperature data loggers can be used to determine storage times times storage determine to used be can loggers data Temperature hatchability. influence negatively both can time storage and fluctuations Temperature – – Eggs with cracks tend to lose moisture more rapidly than intact eggs and the moisture loss can decrease hatchability and chick quality. Cracks in eggs can Animal WelfareTips – There is a negative correlation between hatchability and floor eggs as well as washed eggs. Floor eggs are more prone to cracks, fecal contamination and – Mating activity typically declines with age of the flock which can reduce the fertility and hatchability of eggs. Mating activity can also be influenced by male

– Nutrition is fundamentally important to the production of eggs, which, in turn, will provide the embryo with all the requirements for development. – Over weight breeders are more reluctant to mate and this problem increases with age. Controlling bodyweight controls the rate – Overweightbreedersaremorereluctanttomateandthisproblemincreaseswithage.Controllingbodyweightcontrolsthe rate Farm ControllingFactors COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 4 HATCHABILITY Hatchery Controlling Factors Controlling Hatchery – Equipment failures can be devastating to a hatchery and result in massiveand a hatchery to devastating be can Equipment failures – – Accurate environmental settings of the incubators and hatchers are crucialare hatchers and incubators the of settings environmental Accurate –

Animal Welfare Tips – Cracked and damaged eggs have a reduced hatchability over intact eggs as cracks and damage to theto damage and cracks as eggs intact over hatchability reduced a have eggs damaged and Cracked – – Conditions should be dry as wetting eggs can increase the potential for bacteria, dirt and dust to stick to dry as wetting eggs can increase the potential – Conditions should be – Proper ventilation is central to achieve good hatch and produce quality chicks. Poor ventilation reduces the– Proper ventilation is central to achieve good lity, reduced chick quality and early hatchability, reduced leading cause of poor contamination is a hatchability. Microbial can lead to high sanitation program – A comprehensive Chick welfare and quality outcomes can be impacted from the early stages of incubation. Serious errors in temperature management at the farm, during transportation, during egg storage or in the incubator can have adverse consequences for embryo development and the welfare of the chicks. losses. A maintenance plan should include regular, scheduled and preventative maintenance to prevent equipmentlosses. A maintenance plan should include be available to prevent delays in repairs.failures. Replacement and spare parts should Ventilation development and may overheat the embryos causing overheated eggs oravailability of oxygen necessary for embryonic to ascites. chicks, which may, in turn, predispose them delays in the hatch window. Likewise, humidity has a large impact on chick quality. Proper moisture loss increases theincreases loss moisture Proper quality. chick on impact large a has humidity Likewise, window. hatch the in delays pip in the proper position and consequently reduces red or injured hocks.size of the air cell which allows the chick to Each manufacturer has variations in functions of their equipment. Be aware of the manufacturer's specifications forthe equipment you are using in your hatchery. Management Maintenance and Equipment eggs are moved, transported or transferred. If eggs are cracked or damaged, the number of eggs should be recordedeggs are moved, transported or transferred. procedures,employee to relate may that hatchability with issues identify help can data of type This records. daily in equipment maintenance and training. Hatchers and Incubators of Management that are too hot can cause early hatches, dehydrated chicks, reducedto achieving optimal hatchability. Temperatures Temperatures that are too cold can also reduce chick quality and causeabsorption of the yolk sac, and unhealed navels. i.e. raising and lowering the egg temperature around physiological zero (24 °C; 75 °F ) may lead to embryonic death. zero (24 °C; 75 °F ) may lead to embryonic the egg temperature around physiological i.e. raising and lowering moreare and moisture lose may eggs storage, during eggs the at directed are vents system heating and cooling air If of egg storage section 3.1)tions. (see key points contamination and temperature fluctua susceptible to aerosolized Damage Egg Care should be taken anytimebacterial contamination and desiccation. more susceptible to cuticle make the embryo Sanitation and monitoring air equipment, transfer equipment, etc.) equipment clean (in-ovo vaccinators, candling containment of contaminated eggs, keeping chick mortality. Proper of any effective sanitation program. quality are crucial factors Egg Storage the eggs which may increase the risk of bacteria invading the egg and causing contamination. Temperature fluctuations

COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE HATCHERY PERFORMANCEINDICATORS 5 Hatchery PerformanceIndicators information to solve issues and optimize your hatchery protocols and settings. information tosolveissuesandoptimizeyourhatcheryprotocolssettings. accurate account of where loss is occurring is necessary so that action can be taken to reduce loss from future hatches. There are several key performance indicators that can provide useful The goalofabroilerbreedingoperationistogeneratehatchingeggsthatwillresultinsaleablechicks.Unfortunately,notllincubatedhatch.Whentroubleshootingthehatchery,an (see https://www.cobb-vantress.com/resource). ofhatchfertile. Pleaserefertothecorrespondingproduct supplementforthis information Each Cobbproductlinehasspecific standards forpercentageofhatch,fertility,and ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Hatchery keyperformanceindicators(KPIs)include:

Chick yield(Section8.0) Chick cloacaltemperature(Section7.1) Hatch window(hatchassessment)(Section 7.0) Egg moistureloss(Section4.3) Eggshell temperature(Section4.2) Hatch offertile

COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 6 HATCHERY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS PERFORMANCE HATCHERY 88.66 90.11 89.36 is: % hatch of fertile 97 91 94 % fertile eggs X 100 = Percentage of hatch of fertile X 100 = Percentage percentage of hatch of fertile percentage of hatch 86 82 84 X 100 = 90.0 % hatch of fertile % hatchability A C B Hatchery Formula 3 The formula to calculate Percentage of hatchability eggs Percentage of fertile An example calculation: Percentage of hatchability 86.4 % Percentage of fertility 96 % 86.4 % hatchability 96 % fertility Table 1. The percentage of hatchability, fertile eggs and hatch of fertile fertile eggs and hatch of fertile Table 1. The percentage of hatchability, calculated for three hatcheries. is: percentage of fertile eggs percentage of fertile X 100 = Percentage of fertile eggs X 100 = Percentage X 100 = 96.4 % fertile eggs An example calculation: Number of fertile eggs 108 Number of eggs incubated 112 108 fertile eggs 112 eggs incubated Formula 2 Formula 2 the The formula to calculate Number of fertile eggs Number of eggs incubated Using hatch of fertile will quickly identify the source of the problem as as problem the of source the identify quickly will fertile of hatch Using both good fertility and good either fertility or hatchability. However, having hatchability indicates a well performing farm and hatchery dynamic which is key to a good chick cost which is the ultimate goal. Even though Hatchery B has the lowest % hatchability, it has the highest % hatchability, it has the highest Even though Hatchery B has the lowest was limited by fertility % hatch of fertile. This is because % hatchability and not by the ability of the hatchery to effectively hatch eggs. Therefore, assuming chick quality is equal. Hatchery B is clearly performing the best In Table 1, the percentage of hatchability, fertile eggs and hatch of fertile fertile eggs and hatch of fertile In Table 1, the percentage of hatchability, hatching more A has Hatchery three hatcheries. calculated for has been performance is percent hatch chicks, but a true measurement of hatchery performing the best of the three of fertility and therefore, Hatchery B is hatcheries. Hatch of fertile Hatch Because hatcheries have little influence over fertility, it is important to consider hatchof fertile in addition to hatchability. The percentage of hatch of fertile is fertility as well as hatchability. of fertile considers the flock effectiveness of the hatchery. Hatch a measurement of the COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 7 HATCHING EGGMANAGEMENT (See Appendices page 77 for hatching egg grading chart). (See Appendicespage77forhatchingegggradingchart). contains manylivingcells.Oncetheeggislaid,itshatchingpotentialcan,atbest,bemaintained,butnotimproved.Ifmishandled,willquicklydeteriorate. Optimum hatchabilityandchickqualitycanonlybeachievedwhentheeggisheldunderoptimumconditionsbetweenlaying incubating.Rememberthatafertileegg Hatching EggManagement eggs canreduceasourceofcontamination Candling eggs from the farm and removing cracked ✓ ✓ ✓

and packed separately from nest eggs and clearly identified. If floor If identified. clearly and eggs are going to beincubated, they should be incubatedina separate eggs nest from separately packed and collected be should eggs Floor hatchability. decreases eggs floor of Use impact hatchability, chick quality, egg weight loss, and mortality. Candling are usually not visibletothenaked eye. Furthermore, cracked eggs Check for hairline cracks on eggs received from the farm. Hairline cracks asuitable habitat forbacteria,moldandmildewtogrow. waterproviding and dirt tocollecting prone are humidifiers Keep theegghandlingrooms clean and organized. Equipment such as incubator oronthebottomtraysofincubator. https://www.cobb-vantress.com/resource Each Cobblinehas specificstandardsforeggweightsavailable at: ✓

rooms. control program in egg issues. more the source of hatchability and accurately determine efforts help troubleshooting cracked eggs can also and recordinghairline Use a rigid pest ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

into theegg. cracks cause eggs to dehydrateandprovidebacteriawithan entrance Prevent hairline cracks by handling eggs carefully at all times. Hairline them cleanwhiletheyareonyour premises. Refuse to acceptdirtyeggcontainersandbuggies (trollies).Keep vantress.com/resource) information on hatching egg disinfection available force bacteria into the pores of the egg. (See Cobb Breeder Guide for or removingthe cuticle allowsbacteriatoenter the egg and rubbingcan damage the cuticle which is a protective layer around the egg. Damaging Only keep the clean eggs for hatching. Washing or rubbing dirtyeggs can of cracks. feed. Using eggs that are over70 grams may cause an increasednumber than 48 grams may produce a chick that is too small to reach water and of marginally sizedeggs to select hatching eggs. Using eggs that are less Grade eggscarefully. Duringthe early productionperiod,checkthe weight the eggandreduceriskofanybacteriagettingtoyolk. (pointed) end downward. This will keep the yolk centered in the middle of Place hatching eggs carefully intotheincubator ortransporttray,small humidity arecontrolled,monitoredandrecorded. Store the eggs in adesignated room inwhich the temperature and appendices onpage77. end ofthisguidein the Chart isavailableat the The CobbEggGrading

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https://www.cobb- *8Ζ'(  7 &2%%+$7&+(5<0$1$*(0(1 3 COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 8 - 99.5 - 100 ºF 37.5 - 37.8 ºC HATCHING EGG MANAGEMENT HATCHING Incubator Machine * Lower temperature for eggsfor temperature Lower * stored at the farm. Higher tem perature for eggs transported to the hatchery daily. 75 - 80 ºF 24 - 27 ºC Preheating Area 59 - 66 ºF 15 - 19 ºC Hatchery Egg Room 68 - 73 ºF 20 - 23 ºC Egg Transportation Truck 70 - 77 ºF 21 - 25 ºC On Farm Egg Room* 75 - 85 ºF 24 - 29 ºC The ideal temperature curve for eggs after laying through storage.through laying after eggs curve for ideal temperature The storage temperature gradually until the of temperature occurs The reduction until preheating.with no elevation of temperature is reached Hen House 40 - 41 ºC 104 - 106 ºF Hen’s Body Key Points of Egg Storage of Egg Key Points 3.1 storage room to determine if there are deviations from the optimal temperature. from the optimal temperature.storage room to determine if there are deviations storage or egg supplier and transport conditions. Egg storage in the hatchery shouldstorage or egg supplier and transport conditions. temperature. The egg temperature atbe an environment with uniform, controlled of control so the conditions of storagereception at the hatchery is a critical point audited. It is also important to performon the farm or with egg suppliers should be regular audits of the room temperature and conditions in different parts of the data loggers in each area of the egghatchery egg storage room. Consider placing mold spores can stick to the shell and gives these microorganisms the water they to the shell and gives these microorganisms mold spores can stick on the shell, the If microorganisms enter the incubator while require to sustain life. chicks increases other eggs, embryos or newly hatched chances of contaminating ent. are incubated in a warm, moist environm significantly since eggs and evaluate the conditions of farmMeasure the egg temperature at receiving twice each week. There are three main areas of egg storage: the farm egg room,storage: the farm egg main areas of egg week. There are three twice each to match the and the hatchery egg room. It is important transportation vehicles, to prevent sharp these areas as closely as possible and conditions in each of condensation (“sweating”)to lead can which humidity, and temperature changes in being chilled or changes can also lead to eggs on eggs. Sharp temperature where bacteria anda place provides on the eggshell overheated. Condensation Eggs should be collected from the farms and transported to the hatchery at least to the hatchery at farms and transported be collected from the Eggs should At the hatchery, remove the egg with the crepe paper from the tray and check for dye stains which wouldAt the hatchery, remove the egg with the crepe paper from the tray and check for dye hatchery.indicate that condensation has formed on the egg at some point between the farm and The "crepe paper test" can be used to determine if eggs have been exposed to sharp temperature changesThe "crepe paper test" can be used to determine if eggs have been exposed to sharp temperature the egg in the tray.resulting in condensation on the egg. At the farm, wrap an egg in crepe paper and place COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 9 HATCHING EGGMANAGEMENT 3.2 ungi. Regardless ofstoragetime,humidityshouldbekeptbelow80%ashighrelativefacilitatesthegrowthandspreadfungi. relative humidity is optimum. However, if eggs are stored for longer periods, the relative humidity should be increased (60 to 70 %) to prevent the egg from losing moisture. the lower the storage temperature should be and vice versa. The humidity during storage is not as important as the temperature. If eggs are stored up to 10 days, 50 to 60 % There isarelationshipbetweenthelengthoftimeeggsarestoredandoptimumtemperaturehumidityforbesthatchabili ty. Ingeneral,thelongereggsarestored, ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

basis. basis. Filters from air conditioning units should be cleaned or changed on a regular Fans should pull air away from eggs and not blow air directly down onto eggs. disinfecting theroomonaregularbasis.Userigidpestcontrol program. sanitizers, preventing unauthorized personnel from entering, and cleaning and Use abiosecuritydesignfortheeggstorageroomwithfootdipsandhand microorganisms togrow. be drywith should no standingwaterwhichcanincreasehumidityandprovideareasfor floors The and ofcracks. free be microorganisms should walls and floors introduce The and patterns) flow contamination. air and ventilation and outoftheroomcandisturbstorageconditions(temperature,humidity, in Movement room. storage egg the through flow traffic unnecessary Prevent very suitableenvironmentformicroorganisms. and subsequently contaminatingtheincubatorsas provide a Egg storageroomsshouldbekeptcleantopreventeggsfrombeingcontaminated OptimumEggStorageConditions Storage Time 7 to10 1 to6 Days > 11 Egg storageconditionsbasedontime 15 to16(59 to61) 16 to17(6163) 18 to19(6466) Temperature °C °F ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

during storage. requires keepingalleggsatauniformtemperaturebelowphysiological zero at the same developmental stage will produce a uniform hatch window, but storage canresultinembryosvariousstagesofdevelopment.Having embryos embryonic development. For this reason, variations in temperatures within egg ‘physiological zero’.Fluctuationsaroundthistemperaturecancauseintermittent A temperature below 24 the roomtemperature. ensure the room temperature is correct. Consider using data loggers to monitor As part of a preventative maintenance program, calibrate thermometers to room environmentalconditions. this may increase traffic to the room presenting a biosecurity risk and disrupting Do notusetheeggstorageroomforofotherequipmentormaterialsas among eggs.Donotstoreeggsonthefloor.placenexttoheaters. temperatures uniform and movement air diffusion, gaseous allow to eggs of Eggs shouldbestoredinrackswithamplespacebetweentraysorcartons 60 to70% 50 to60% 50 to60% Humidity ° C (75 ° F) arrests development and is termed F) arrests development and is termed COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 10 HATCHING EGG MANAGEMENT HATCHING 3 3 4 4 3 3.5 3.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 Temperate Climate with 10 ft ceiling) 2 3 3 4 4 3 3.5 3.5 3.5 4.5 4.5 Climate HVAC tonnage recommendation Tropical and Arid with 3M ceiling; 1000 ft 2 (100 m 27,000 27,000 28,000 29,000 30,000 31,000 32,000 33,000 34,000 34,000 3 Temperate Climate BTU recommendation 32,000 32,000 33,000 34,000 35,000 36,000 37,000 38,000 39,000 39,000 Climate Tropical and Arid Cooling System Guidelines for Egg Storage Rooms for Egg Storage Guidelines Cooling System 54 to56 52 to 54 50 to 52 68 to 70 66 to 68 64 to 66 62 to 64 60 to 62 58 to 60 56 to 58 All calculations are based on a room size of 10,000 ft All calculations are based on a room size of ⁰C ⁰F Temperature range Temperature range 12 to 11 11 to 10 20 to 21 19 to 20 18 to 19 13 to 12 16.5 to 18 14.5 to 13 16.5 to 15.5 15.5 to 14.5 The recommended minimum insulation R values for walls is R19 and ceilings is R30. The recommended minimum insulation R These recommendations are based on a storage room with good insulation, no ventilation leaks, and minimum heat load additional in the room. room with good insulation, no ventilation leaks, and minimum heat load additional These recommendations are based on a storage increase energy consumption. recommended as this can increase movement in and out of the egg room which can Storage of equipment in the egg room is not

✓ ✓ ✓ COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 11 HATCHING EGGMANAGEMENT 3.3 ✓ ✓ ✓

to prevent losses in hatchability. to preventlossesinhatchability. In thiscase,turningeggsthatarestoredforanextendedperiodmaybehelpful mortality canthenresultfromdehydrationduringtheearlystagesofincubation. which maycausetheembryotomovecloseeggshell.Earlyembryonic Extended periods of egg storage (8 days or more) result in albumen degradation stored foranextendedtimeframe. hence broilerweightscanbedepressedinchicksfromeggsthathavebeen and affected be will quality Chick thereafter. day per % 1.5 to 1.0 and days, 10 storage time after the initial six-day period, resulting in losses of 0.5 % per day up to with increases effect The hatchability. decreases storage Prolonged 48 hoursoflaywillresultina1to2%reductionhatch. range of8.8to9.2(theoptimalrange).Therefore,incubatingeggswithin dioxide (CO protects the embryo from bacterial infection. During storage, carbon pH ofthealbumenistoolowforoptimalembryonicdevelopment,but Hatchability isoptimalwitheggsstoredbetween3to6days.Atlay,the ImpactsofEggStorage 2 ) is releasedincreasingthepHofalbumenfrom7.6toa *egg age-defined astimefromlayuntilincubation 12 daysormore 10 to11days 8 to9days 7 daysorless Egg Age Change in incubation time based on *egg age Change inincubationtimebasedon*eggage Add 3hourstoincubationtime (incubate3hoursearly) Add 2hourstoincubationtime (incubate2hoursearly) Add 1hourtoincubationtime(incubateearly) No change Incubation time ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

be addedtothebeginningofincubationcycle. Storage prolongsincubationtime.Anincreaseintimeshouldalways casing topreventcondensationandsubsequentgrowthofmicroorganisms. solid covered cases. Allow covered eggs to cool down and dry thoroughly before are placedinopen-sidedcases/boxesorfarmracks,butsome Storage conditionsmustbedesignedtominimizehatchabilitylosses.Mosteggs contributes tothereductioninhatchabilityandchickqualityduringstorage. ofthe viscosity inthe albumen. Eggsalsolose water vapor whileinstorage.The loss of CO areduction duringthe laidcausing rapidly is egg declines the after hours theconcentration 12 first and egg, the of out diffuses Gas exchange occurs through theporesin the eggshell during storage. CO during storage. albumen quality at oviposition and increased rates of albumen degradation lower shells, thinner have eggs these as age) of weeks (>55 flocks breeder old The detrimental effects of long-term storage are more pronounced in eggs from 2 and water and water 2

COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 12 HATCHING EGG MANAGEMENT HATCHING Cycle

Incubation Cool down Pre-warming day 5 or 6 day 6 and day 11 Treatment days Treatment F) F ) F) ° ° ° (Age of egg) day 6, day 11 and day 16 day 6, day 11 F) for more than 13 hours (eggshell temperature, C (95 C (75 C (80 F) after the treatment as quickly as possible. ° ° ° ° ° C (90 C (79 ° 1 2 3 ° Incubation Temperature 26.5 35.0 23.9 treatments Heat Treatment Guidelines Heat Treatment 1 6* 3 9 to 11 12 to 16 17 or more Expected storage Number of storage Number Expected time (days) not air temperature). If the heat treatment step is too long, embryonic loss can occur. step is too long, embryonic loss can occur.not air temperature). If the heat treatment The egg must be lowered to 26 in a place where they will not warm otherPlace heat treated eggs back in the egg room eggs in the room. After the eggs are heat treated they must be stored for a minimum of 24h before incubation. If eggs rapidly increase in temperature during storage condensation can occur. theof C degrees 2 within are they until store egg the to returned be not should Eggs egg storage temperature. Heat treatment must be done using equipment designed for this purpose or using anHeat treatment must be done using equipment empty single stage incubator. The embryo cannot be above 32

Heat treatment length (hours) last heat treatment time to 4 hours. *If doing 3 treatments, shorten the length of the ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Key Points F) ° 59 °C ( Heat Treating Eggs Heat Treating Narrows the hatch window Improved hatchability Reduces loss of fertile eggs during storage Improves chick quality before incubating) Turn eggs during storage Increase incubation time Reduce the temperature in storage. Do not go below 15 Reduce the temperature in storage. Do turn back to large end up Store eggs small end up (remember to

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ In practice, heat treatment leads to: early embryonic death and increasing storage time. Heat treating treating Heat time. storage increasing and death embryonic early during storage. eggs involves using short periods of Incubation periods short and division cellular promotes treatment heat The treatment, incubation of embryonic development. With heat in shown as time incubation to added be to need not do hours Section 3.3. can be inevitable. Extended egg storage can result in reduced reduced in result can storage egg Extended inevitable. be can and time incubation increased quality, chick and hatchability increased 7-day mortality. slower more than 7 days tend to develop Eggs that are stored correlation between during incubation. There is also a strong Performance losses in the hatchery are often due to egg age, egg age, in the hatchery are often due to losses Performance grandparent and parent stock operations. especially for breeding but egg age is ideally less than 7 days of age, For most operations, sized different from volumes production orders, in variations with time storage increased conditions, seasonal or market and farms Other methods of reducing negative impacts of extended storage: Other methods of reducing negative impacts 3.4 COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 13 HATCHING EGGMANAGEMENT Prior to incubating, eggs should be removed from the egg room and pre-warmed. Pre-warming eggs provides several benefits that include: that benefits several provides eggs Pre-warming pre-warmed. and room egg the from removed be should eggs incubating, to Prior the eggsandallow6hoursforpre-warming. around circulation air effective provide to recommended is It hours. incubation may taketwiceaslong.Thepre-warming hoursshouldnotbeaddedtototal 26 °C (78 °F) regardless of their initial temperature. With poor air circulation, it Even with good air circulation, it will take 6 hours for eggs on a buggy to reach precisely theoppositeofdesiredeffectpre-warming. warming ofeggs.Unevenpre-warmingincreasesvariationinhatch time,whichis room temperature are essential to achieve the necessary and uniform pre- right)). Effective air circulation that moves air throughout the egg rack and correct or pre-heatingchamberatapproximately24to27°C(7580 °F;seediagram For multi-stageincubators,eggsshouldbepre-warmedinapurpose-built room quality. a varietyofissuesfortheembryosatallstagesintermshatchabilityandchick cause can This significantly. drop can incubator the in temperature and overall distribution the andhumidity heat the in fluctuations tremendous cause can of incubation. However, placing eggs from storage directly into the incubator are inthelaterstagesofincubationtoheateggsthatearly Multi-stage incubators rely on the heat production of the developing embryos that Multi-stage incubators 3.5 ✓ ✓ ✓

window. Pre-warming eggspriortoincubationwillreducethevariationamongeggtemperaturesattimeofincubating.Similartemperaturesnarrowhatch egg. the contaminating of risk the increases which shell the to stick to bacteria allow can Condensation shell. the on forming condensation Prevents shock. embryo of risk the Reduces Pre-warming Eggs for single stage incubators. for singlestageincubators. pre-warming time and temperature of 6 hours at 26.6 ⁰C (80 °F) is typically used hours. See the manufacturer’s specific guidelines and instructions. In general,a incubator, and the pre-warming hours should not be added to total incubation In single stage incubators, pre-warming can be accomplished inside the Single stageincubators room or pre-heating chamber as diagramed above. room orpre-heating chamberasdiagramedabove. For multi-stageincubators,eggsshould bepre-warmedinapurpose-built COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 14 INCUBATOR OPERATION INCUBATOR Cost

Relatively lower energy and equipment cost Relatively higher energy and equipment cost . Sanitation Cleaning and disinfection cannot be done in all locations without interrupting incubating schedules Allows thorough cleaning and disinfection between egg incubations every 18 days at a maximum 2 Temperature of incubation: Normally fixed for any hatchery, but toachieve a desired take-off time for chicks, modifications to time can be adapted to age and size of eggs. extraadd to need will You incubate. to longer take eggs older eggs: of Age incubation time if eggs are stored over 7 days. Size of eggs: larger eggs take longer to incubate. decreaseand cycle hatch the slow will loss moisture Low loss: Moisture the number of incubationhatchability. Excessive moisture loss will decrease hours.

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Four factors influence the total incubation time of eggs: Four factors influence the total incubation /minute/1000 eggs and 3 approximately 0.14 m adjusted for CO of 0.4 % Air exchange rates are variable and adjusted according to humidity and egg moisture loss Ventilation Constant air exchange rate of adequate gas exchange, correct temperature, correct humidity, and regular turning of eggs correct temperature, correct humidity, adequate gas exchange, osmosis between albumen and yolk but is decreased at later stages during development of heart and blood circulatory systems Humidity Typically set at 47 to 52 % depending on manufacturer and egg types Humidity is initially high to promote Temperature development progresses incubation time frame Temperature settings must be carefully monitored and adjusted to deliver more heat at the early stages and decreases as Relies on the mix between endothermic and exothermic producing embryos to balance temperatures throughout the Single stage buggy loading - incubates eggs at the same development stagedevelopment same the at eggs incubates - loading buggy stage Single are theneggs on preloaded buggies. Buggies and is loaded using trays of loaded into the incubator. Multi-stage fixed rack - incubates eggs at different development stages and is loaded using trays of eggs. Multi-stage buggy loading - incubates eggs at different development stages are theneggs on preloaded buggies. Buggies and is loaded using trays of loaded into the incubator.

Incubator Operation Incubator ✓ ✓ ✓ Commercial incubation systems fall into three main categories:Commercial incubation systems fall conditions for any embryo to grow successfully are conditions for any embryo eachwith vary will machine the within eggs the of position actual the and week) a twice or (once loading of frequency the machine, each in loaded be to eggs of quantity actual The instructions. the equipment according to the manufacturer's manufacturer. Operate (+/- 2 to 4 hours) is expected stage incubator. However, some variation a multi-stage and 504 to 508 hours for a single incubation times are 504 to 510 hours for The total recommended egg age, breed, climate and hatch window. according to flock age, Energy consumption, labor usage, durability, maintenance, technical support, parts availability, and capital costs influence the choice of the incubator design. The optimum physical Single Stage Multi-stage COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 15 INCUBATOR OPERATION the machines is pre-humidified to closely match the internal relative relative internal °F). 24 80 to be 27to (76 °C should air this the of temperature The match humidity. closely to pre-humidified is entering machines air the system, humidification internal the on load the reduce to so and moisture, little relatively supplies air fresh The humidity. relative of levels the vary can that source incubators a 14.2).humidity Most have Section Configurations; Ventilation Hatchery table (See eggs. 1000 per 13.52 to (8.5 m 8cfm 5 to be incubator the to should room supply CO removes incubator the leaving Air humidity. relative correct the maintain to moisture and oxygen supplies air fresh This located. are they which in plenum air fresh or room the from air fresh draw Incubators normally 4.1 buggy incubators at 0.3 to 0.4 % but these CO and these but % 0.4 % to 0.3 at incubators 0.3 to buggy 0.2 at operate incubators rack fixed Most %. 0.4 exceed CO the that so adjusted be should incubators Multi-stage incubator can provide more detailed calculations for this operation. this for calculations detailed more provide incubator can each of manufacturer The cycle. incubation the of end the at opened fully be will and progresses cycle incubation damper the as The gradually open will incubation. of stages completely first be the during will shut almost damper or shut The incubation. during times different at incubators stage Single Ventilation 2 , humidity and excess heat produced by the eggs. The air air The eggs. the by produced heat excess and , humidity air have exchangespecific rates that are required require constant air exchange. The ventilation ventilation The exchange. air constant require 2 level the within machine does not 2 levels are not required. not are levels 3 hr) hr) embryonic temperatures and therefore the risk of embryos overheating overheating embryos of risk the therefore and temperatures embryonic rate of development. Modern broiler breeder genetics produce higher it’s hence and embryo the of rate metabolic the determines Temperature 4.2 Factors that can impact uniformity of temperature in the incubator: the in temperature of uniformity impact can that Factors cycle. life the of stages different at performance post-hatch affect is higher. Research has incubation shown conditions that adverse can ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Incubation patterns (see page) next 4.4) section (See necessary if Adjust empty. is machine stage asingle time every and machine amulti-stage for days 90 every –calibrate angle turning Incorrect broken or cracked, worn, are seals –door Maintenance design engineering Poor eggs of full not if ranges temperature calibrated within operate not may and full be to calibrated are –Machines capacities incubator of water utilization under or Over incorrect valves, sticky rates, pipes the in deposits mineral temperature, flow water – problems Cooling empty is machine stage a single time every and machine a multi-stage for days 90 every machine the of probes temperature the - calibrate calibrations Temperature ventilation exhaust settings, damper pressure, supply, volume – air ventilation Incorrect Temperature Control COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 16 INCUBATOR OPERATION INCUBATOR O O O O O O 10 9 O O O O O O 8 O O O O O O 7 P P P P P P 6 P P P P P P 5 P P P P P P 4 P P P P P P Y Y Y Y Y Y 3 Y Y Y Y Y Y 2 Y Y Y Y Y Y 1 Place Monday Place Monday Place Monday Place Thursday Place Thursday Place Thursday Incubator Number P P P P O O 10 Y Y 9 P P O O Y Y 8 P P O O Y Y 7 P P P P Y Y 6 P P O O Y Y 5 P P O O Y Y 4 P P , temperatures can be modified to optimize embryonic growth and heat production, starting at a higher temperature and subsequently O O the temperature should remain constant. The optimum air temperature for both hatchability and chick quality will differ depending on the Y Y 3 P P O O Y Y 2 P P O O Y Y 1 P P O O Figure 2. Correct (left) and incorrect (right) = eggsprime P flocks; from eggs = young Y from patternincubator. the in areas temperature high/low prevents which of created is temperature and heat embryonic eggs in a multi-stage incubator. By mixing the flock agesflocks; O = eggs (Left), from older flocks. a more uniform distribution of in a block pattern can adversely affect hatchability and chick quality. typeof incubator. Using higher or lower temperatures than the manufacturer’s recommendations will lead tofaster or slower embryonic development and consequent issues with thehatchwindow, hatchability chickorquality. and/ Incorrect balanceloading in multi-stage cancreatemajorincubators temperature variations. Partly filled incubators may not achieve the correct temperature and prolong incubation, while overloading can create overheating problems. Both hatchabilityconditions quality. chick and will adversely affect Multi-stage incubators are designed to perform best when they have a mix of flock egg ages in the machine (Figure2). However, placing young, prime, and older flocks Insingle stage incubators reducing the temperature in stages through transfer. multi-stage In incubators, Balancing incubation patterns incubation Balancing Temperature Control Temperature 4.2 COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 17 INCUBATOR OPERATION during incubation include: with embryos on Impacts Measuring eggshelltemperatures required or specific locations that need to be addressed by machine or hallway. It can also help optimize incubating and transferring times. transferring and incubating optimize help also can It hallway. or machine by addressed be to need that locations specific interventions or required management indicate will temperatures eggshell from collected data The livability. broiler overall and conversion feed improve and mortality 7-day to reduced lead can temperature eggshell of management proper that indicating studies numerous also are there but hatchability, improve can temperature eggshell Measuring embryos. of development the for optimal 37.7 are of (100 °C °F) 100.5 to 38.0 to temperatures Eggshell of embryo. the of reflection a is temperature which the shell the of temperature the air, but the of temperature the not is factor determining the However, tendons. and muscles system, cardiovascular the of development weight, organ influences incubation during Thetemperature performance. hatch post and quality navel hatchability, development, temperature embryo air in influence differences small how shown have trials field and experiments Several process. incubation the in factor critical most the is temperature Undoubtedly ✓ ✓ ✓

hypertrophy and increased mortality associated with ascites. with associated mortality increased and hypertrophy ventricular right cause may and muscle cardiac the of development the affect negatively (38.9°C) incubation during temperatures eggshell Higher incubation. during 102°F) 38.9°C; than (greater temperatures elevated by reduced is thymus and bursa the of development as impacted negatively be also can system immune The hearts. and livers stomachs, smaller and yolks residual higher weights, lower lengths, body shorter scores, navel poor metatarsus, and femurs tibias, shorter have may Chicks high eggshell temperatures (>38.8 (>38.8 temperatures eggshell E 38.0 to38.8(100.5102) 37.7 to38.0(100100.5) ggshell Temperature°C(°F) 39.1 to40.0(102104) 36.6 to37.7(9899.9) ° C; 102 °F) 102C; °F) Conditions Too warm Optimum Too cold Too hot during incubation include: with embryos on Impacts ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Poor hatchandpoorchickquality Good hatchbutpoorchickquality Good hatchandgoodchickquality Slow /poorhatchandchickquality

percentage yield chick higher and weights, chick higher yolks, residual Higher reduced. be may Hatchability scores. navel poor have may Chicks chilling. to susceptible more them making wet be may Chicks mortality. embryonic in increase an cause can and extended is time incubation total The Results low eggshell temperatures (< 37.7 temperatures °F) 99.9 °C; eggshell COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 18 INCUBATOR OPERATION INCUBATOR theequator of the eggshell during justbelow Measure Here surface thermometer or infrared thermometer. These devices come in a varietyof accuracy and price ranges. It is important touse the same device toensure day to day consistency and overall accuracy in the data collected. Measuring eggshelltemperature should always be done precisely and accurately. one-hourA time frame is recommended for the time and day for measurements. Itis importantthat a consistent set of procedures is used to record eggshell temperatures. This ensures that the most accurate information is being monitored and recorded. The device for measuring the eggshell temperature should be a thermal the egg. If candling indicates a fertile egg, but the eggshell temperature is low, this egg indicate a late dead embryo. Donot include this egg in your measurements. Thetemperature is taken intervalsof incubation toindicate correct embryo temperature. If the temperatureis taken over the air cell, the reading will indicate egg temperature istoo low. Candling the egg before taking the temperature can be done to ensure the embryo is living and that the temperature is taken of the embryo, not the air cell. The eggshell temperature should only be recorded from eggs with living embryos.ensure that theegg To living hasa embryo, flashlightusea to candle

Watts / 1000 eggs 250 200 150 100 50 0 have thermal have scannersshell that monitor Days of incubation donot have this tool and eggshelltemperatures must be HeatProduction of Incubating Eggs single stage incubators 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 21 20 19 18 17 9 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 0 and bottom of the rack and in the back, middle and front of the egg trays to map temperature points andmake any necessary corrections. Modern to machine the modulating process, incubation the throughout temperature adequately meet the needs of the embryo. Multi-stage machines monitored with a digital thermometer,taking measurements at the top, middle Key points for measuring eggshell temperatures eggshell for measuring Key points The eggshell temperature increases rapidly the temperature in is the too high finalin specific stages locations of in couldthe incubation. indicate mechanical multi-stage issues or improper balance If incubator, of egg incubation this patterns. Measuring the temperature within hours 12 or less before transfer allows time to correct issues. Thebest time torecord the eggshell temperature is twelve hours before transfer.

21.6 4.32 8.64

17.28 12.96 Kjoules / egg/ day egg/ / Kjoules COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 19 INCUBATOR OPERATION Measuring eggshelltemperatures(cont'.) (indicated in the photo) for a total of 54 to 90 data points. data 90 to 54 of atotal for photo) the in (indicated 18 of each trays of center the from 5 eggs 3to of temperature a In temperatures. eggshell for trolleys other measure and fans the to next place in trolleys keep machines, stage single In fans. moving of especially aware -be parts safety For deviations. temperature prevent to closed door and running machine the with setter the inside from taken be should measurements Eggshell pack. egg the of center the from temperature the record and out eggs of flat the pull to recommended to measure the temperature is in the middle of the tray. egg is This egg less influenced by airwith movement inthe 3 to machineeggs 5Measure andwill givethe machine. truest temperature the indication.It is throughout locations different six from temperatures measure results, best the For Chickmaster multi-stage fixed rack system rack fixed multi-stage Chickmaster , measure the eggshell eggshell the , measure readings down the back of each buggy. buggy. each of back the down readings 15 and temperature tray) each for (one front the down measurements 15 take temperature buggy, each For picture. the in shown as racks the of middle the down straight taken be should temperature eggshell the for a In Jamesway multi-stage tunnel machine, multi-stage Jamesway viable embryos viable the location of the recordings recordings the of location the per location. The ideal egg from from egg ideal The location. per COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 20 INCUBATOR OPERATION INCUBATOR 101- 101.5 102- 102.5 100- 100.5 100.5- 101 101.5- 102 Top of Trolley Top Bottom of Trolley Front Target Back Target Front 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 12 13 14 15 10 11 canprovide diagram a of the incubator heat patterns found throughout the machine. diagramA will show uniformity of the temperature inside the

See preceding pages for further details on taking eggshell temperatures. Example of contour a graph created from eggshell temperatures measured on a Jamesway multi-stage tunnel incubator. Eggshell temperatures were taken from eggs in each located tray to 15) (1 in the front and back of the trolley. based on several or random measurement points. It is imperative to collect all the information consistently (time, collection points, number of data points)can be compared so that among data different dates in a meaningful way. Chartingthe data incubator and locate any temperature extremes. This is an excellent tool for isolating mechanical issues and trying to keep the heat load in the machine balanced. Recordalltemperatures andevaluate allthedata after collecting it. Evaluate data setsin based machineon hallway andspecific not hatchmake Do day. swift judgements COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 21 INCUBATOR OPERATION s. structure) whichcan havelong-termnegativeoutcomes forchicks. Egg moistureloss is veryimportantforhatchabilityand hatchwindow,andalsofor chickquality.Incorrecteggmoisturecanresultin losswelfareconcerns(ex:redhocks,size, andbone 4.3 incubated under the same humidity conditions, there will be a variation in moisture loss. With eggs from broiler breeders, this variation does not normally have any any have normally not does are variation this eggs breeders, the broiler from all eggs when With loss. conductance, moisture in gas avariation hence be will and there conditions, structure humidity shell same in the under differences incubated to Due egg. the around air the in humidity the and shell) the of conductance gas (the pores the of size and number the on depends lost is moisture this which at rate The shell. the of pores the through egg the from lost is vapor water incubation, During quality. chick and hatchability maximum achieve to adequate are levels loss moisture indicate can that from chick the and signs visual egg the are There size. egg or influences seasonal flock, breeder the of age the to according vary can loss moisture of percentage The and conditions. tolerances ventilation atmospheric in variation positioning, damper settings, humidity include can these and loss, moisture optimal with involved factors many are There optimum hatchability and chick quality. hatchability optimum tomaintain conditions humidity incubator toadjust itmay benecessary egg quality, reduces ordisease However,when nutrition age, onthehatchability. effect significant Humidity andEggMoistureLoss Animal WelfareTips 61+ 51 to60 41 to50 31 to40 25 to30 Breeder flockage(weeks) Percentage of moisture loss for eggs after 18.5 ofincubation days after eggs for loss ofmoisture Percentage 13.0 %ormore 12.5 to13.0% 12.0 to12.5% 11 to12% 10 to11% Multi-stage incubator 12.5 %ormore 12.0 to12.5% 11.5 to12.0% 10.5 to11.5% 10.0 to10.5% Single stageincubator

COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 22 INCUBATOR OPERATION INCUBATOR - X 100 = percentage X 100 of egg moisture loss tray weight at transfer ) incubator tray will again be weighed at transfer to obtain the percentage of moisture loss. tray. incubator incubator x 100 = 11.5 % egg moisture = 11.5 x 100 loss tray weight g 1,050 tray weight at incubation - full tray weight at incubation 6,250 g tray weight at transfer 5,650 g Formula 4 incubator ty hatching eggs free of any shell quality issues, cracks or misshapen eggs. Finally, each specific Weigh an empty Next,weigh each incubator tray with eggs before incubation. The eggs used in this calculation should be quali incubator incubator incubator

Full Empty (6,250 g - 5,650 g) (6,250 g) g - 1,050 (full (full tray weight at incubation- empty tray weight) An example calculation: Full The calculation for determining the percentage of egg moisture loss is: 3. 1. 2. Eggmoisture loss calculations can be integrated with chick yield calculations since both begin with the weight of traya of eggs before incubation calculate moisture(see To 8.0).section loss, clearly five hatching trays markthree to eggsof incubator. These flock or hatchingper trays clearlyshould be marked throughout the incubation process to ensure accuracy and continuity. Place these trays in different locations throughout the incubator to achieve the best calculationsmoisture on loss. (i.e. in the top, middle and bottom of the incubator cart or fixed rack system).To increase accuracy of the data, try to place the trays in calculations.the subsequent for same time each incubators locationswithin the Calculating egg moisture loss egg moisture Calculating COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 23 INCUBATOR OPERATION ✓ ✓ 18.5 at days. loss moisture calculate to used be can then number This incubation. of day one to back calculated be should figures all hours), (444 18.5at is not days time transfer the if However, of incubation. on 18.5 days 23) is based (page table loss moisture The Calculating eggmoistureloss(cont.)

year to year. to year or produce season, to season can from made be to comparisons allow information which trends This type. flock or month week, be date, hatch should by figures The age. referenced be can data the that so flock spreadsheet or adatabase in recorded breeder or day incubation machine, flock, by associated be can data This ideal. is hatchery the at used source flock each for week each percentage loss moisture a obtain to able Being age. flock breeder by desirable loss moisture of percentage the dictate will size and weight in increase This ages. flock the as size and weight in increase hen breeder a from eggs The age. breeder by percentage loss moisture very the know to is It important source. flock old one and prime one young, one include should minimum, at day, and, hatch each done be should loss moisture Calculating 19 days 19 loss 13.5 %moisture 22). page 4on formula using 13.5 is %(as calculated incubation 19 of at days loss moisture Egg calculation: example An incubation) of days (X Xdays) at loss (Moisture incubation: of 18.5 at days loss moisture egg of percentage the determining for calculation The 5 Formula X 18.5 days = 13.1 % egg moisture loss at 18 at days loss =13.1 X18.5 days moisture %egg X 18.5 = percentage of egg moisture loss at 18.5 at days loss moisture egg of X18.5 =percentage ✓ ✓ ✓

embryo should be used as areplacement. as used be should embryo aviable with egg Afertile replaced. be egg the should then only and then reason, mechanical some for removed or broken been has egg an If time. transfer at weight the from removed be should eggs No data. detailed more Weighing each component in grams can improve and accuracy provide incubator tray before calculating the the calculating before tray COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 24 INCUBATOR OPERATION INCUBATOR , the ability to make slight adjustments to the to make slight adjustments , the ability - The relative humidity level in the incubator. - The relative humidity The atmospheric conditions of the incoming air. The atmospheric conditions multi-stage incubator multi-stage Relative humidity Air conditioning-

two factors that can influence moisture loss rate in multi-stage incubation: two factors that can influence 1. 2. In the There are aid in obtaining correct moisture loss levels. atmospheric conditions When performing an egg residue breakout, it is important to look closely at the lateWhen performing an egg residue breakout, membraneinner the through pipped has chick the When mortality. embryonic tosure Be loss. moisture much too of sign a be can this pipped, externally not and investigate these findings thoroughly to better assess the exact cause of embryo mortality. environment for hatching eggs is very precise based for hatching eggs is environment - the relative humidity percentage setting according to the- the relative humidity - the air exchange rate requirement is model/machine- the air exchange rate requirement is - The removal of water is also influenced by the day that the - the temperature can also influence the amount of moisture that is lost. is that moisture of amount the influence also can temperature the - Ventilation rate moisture loss. specific and the air exchange rate will determine specific day of incubation will help promote moisture loss.specific day of incubation Damper open and to what extent.incubator damper can Heat amount of moisture loss. High eggshell temperature will increase the Relative humidity single stage incubation single stage

same as if incubation temperatures are too high. Insufficient moisture loss will than desired causing chicks to bealso cause the hatch window to shift to earlier dehydrated at the time of take-off The moisture loss level needs to be evaluated in the hatch window. This is where theto ensure the exact reason behind the shift the diagnoses.calculations of moisture loss can help with A flashlight or torch just prior to transfer can be used to determine the egg air cell air egg the determine to used be can transfer to prior just torch or flashlight A of excessive moisture loss. size. An air cell that is too large, can be an indication moisture loss, may appear theChicks that are hatching early due to excessive 4. 2. 3. The on the age of the embryo. To achieve optimal moisture loss there are 4 different how much and at what rate moisture loss is obtained: factors that will influence 1. Indications of egg moisture loss of egg Indications COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 25 INCUBATOR OPERATION not enougheggmoistureloss. pipping process. If the head becomes inverted or tilted up in appearance, this is a sign of be anindicatorofpropermoistureloss.Theheadthechickshouldlevelduring the eggattransfer.Thelocationwherechickexternallypipsthrougheggshellcan The air cell of the egg should be at least one-third of the egg or just above the equator of ture loss. Incorrect piplocationwithnotenough eggmois loss. Correct piplocationwithenougheggmoisture - Indications that the total percentage of egg moisture loss is too low: too is loss moisture egg of percentage total the that Indications Indications that the total percentage of egg moisture loss is too high: too is loss moisture egg of percentage total the that Indications ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Chicks with eggshell debris stuck to them Chicks witheggshelldebrisstucktothem Enlarged abdomens Red hocksorabrasionstothebeaknostrils larger thanChicks normal to debris them attached eggshell with chicks Sticky small too cell Air Embryonic death at 20 days (Internal pip) (Internal 20 days at death Embryonic large too cell Air smaller than normal Chicks Dehydrated chicks hatching early Chicks early pipping Chicks 7 days 14 days 14

18 days 18

GUIDE MANAGEMENT HATCHERY COBB COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 26 - - - - - INCUBATOR OPERATION INCUBATOR . ° . Adjust the turning mechanisms incubator , then the eggs should be turned more frequently, then the eggs should incubator trolley closest to the turning arm will turn correctly, while the trolley far trolley the while correctly, will turn arm turning the to trolley closest less than 39 thest away from the turning arm will turn machine the of sides both check to important is it incubator, rack fixed a In machine. in the front, middle, and back section of the with loaded is it trolley when the check with portable trollies, machine a In but when it is load correct angle, turn the An empty trolley will often eggs. ed with eggs it may fail to achieve the proper angle. Checking to see if the turning mechanism has turned should be done during turning mechanism has turned should be Checking to see if the Since the and recorded in a machine check log. the regular machine checks 2 hours, be sure to check theturning angle will be in the same position every interval.mechanism every 3 hours or at an equivalent turn correct the meet to failure as directions both in angle turning the Check can still cause losses. ing angle in one direction but not in the other beforeor multi-stage in days 90 every calibrated be should angle turning The each incubation in a single stage the incubator log. Calibrating theif necessary and record the adjustments in turning angle at the same time as calibrating the temperature is most effi cient. In a fixed rack incubator, check the machine while it is loaded with eggs. Do switch before checking the an not manually turn the eggs using the control full turning cycle independently.gle. Instead, allow the machine to make a when turned manually, but failSome machines will achieve the proper angle to achieve the proper angle when turning automatically. the cases, some In machine. in the trolley every to check It is important How to check theHow to turn angle

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ - - - - Turning bryonic fluid. Turning allows the yolk membrane to absorb water by contact ing a fresh area of albumen. Turning failures that occur during the first week of incubation cause a reduc and increase the incidencetion in hatchability, increase embryonic mortality, of malposition. Furthermore, the impact of turning failures during the first week cannot be resolved later in incubation. sac membrane is growing downBetween 3 to 4 days of incubation, the yolk from the albumen to the sub-em around the yolk and actively moves water When the turning angle is too shallow (less than 39°), the incidences of incor When the turning angle is too shallow (less rect embryo position increase. increases, regular turning willAs embryos develop and their heat production redirect airflow throughout the incubator and prevent specific areas from overheating. Turning the egg prevents the embryo from sticking to the shell membranes,sticking from embryo the prevents egg the Turning particularly during the first week of incubation, and promotes development of the embryonic membranes.

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Why turning is important 4.4 39 and 45°. Turning The angle of turning should be between the angle, the frequency and the smoothness. that are important for turning that include There are several factors be very gentle as there are delicate membranesonce per hour and should Turning should be conducted will decrease hatchability and chick quality. angles of less than 39° at the turning angle of 39° cannot be achieved in that can easily rupture. If the minimum and vessels in the eggs (every 30 minutes). COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 27 INCUBATOR OPERATION ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Turning failure. mechanism mechanisms. turning the or incubator the to failure Power failures. programming or software sensor, Turning mechanism. turning the with engaged not is buggy the that positioned properly not (trolley) Buggy to turn the eggs more frequently (every 30 minutes). minutes). 30 (every frequently more eggs the turn to to achieve the minimum turning angle of 39 the photoabove,turningangleiscorrect.Ifitnotpossible In tray. egg the than different slightly measure may it as frame Be sure to measure the angle of the egg tray and not the metal A digitaldevicecanbeusedtomeasuretheangleinincubator. Causes of turning failures turning of Causes or the buggy wheels are worn so so worn are wheels buggy the or °, it is recommended °, recommended is it ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Poor alignment of the turning limit switches switches limit turning the of alignment Poor floors Uneven incubator. the in mechanism turning the with engaged fully not is Buggy correctly. move to mechanism turning the for space enough have not does incubator the in position Buggy mechanism. turning the supplying air or power with Issues mechanisms. turning the of wear, warping or maintenance, Poor bars. turning Bent according to specific locations within your incubators. according tospecificlocationswithinyourincubators. such as a memory database that can store your measurements provide multipleappsthatcanbeused.Somehavefeatures will and searches for used be can finder" "angle and "leveling" and used to check the angle in the incubator. Key words including There areseveralphoneappsavailablethatcanbedownloaded Causes of incorrect turning angle turning incorrect of Causes

COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 28 EGG TRANSFER 5 and use them to track individual flocks and to predict hatch. to predict hatch. and use them to track individual flocks and The time between the eggs leaving the incubator and entering the hatcher shouldhatcher the entering and incubator the leaving eggs the between time The from cooling. be less than 20 minutes to prevent the eggs early remove infertile, count and hand to candled by eggs may be transfer, At Candling the eggs will give moreembryonic mortality, and contaminated eggs. improves ventilation. Replacing thespace in the hatcher baskets for chicks and will concentrateThis recommended. not candling is after basket empty spots in the hatcher creating the possibility oftoo many viable embryos in a basket and/or refilling However, %). (<60 hatchability low with flocks for baskets Refill overheating. must not exceed 90 % of the basket capacity. clear eggs from young, prime and oldIf manually candling, take a sample of the flocks to check the accuracy of the personnel or equipment. Record these results

✓ ✓ ✓ after 18 or 19 days of incubation and transferred to the hatcher baskets.of incubation and transferred to the hatcher after 18 or 19 days incubator Animal Welfare Tips with the buggies (trollies) and hatcher baskets inside. Pre-warmingwith the buggies (trollies) and hatcher baskets will help dry the equipment and buggies (trollies). sure the transfer machineHave all required materials ready and make can delay theis ready prior to beginning transfer. Being unprepared transfer causing the eggs to cool. from the machine. thoroughly washed andEnsure the hatcher and hatcher baskets are willbaskets wet in Eggs transferred. are eggs before dry to allowed and humidity difficult.cool and make the control of temperature hours prior to transferThe hatchers should be turned on at least two transferred to a single stage hatcher. Using a dedicated hatcher willtransferred to a single stage hatcher. Using contain fluff generated during hatch, which could hatcher, temperature,contamination. In addition, in the single stage be a source of overheatingprevent to optimized be can ventilation and humidity and dehydrating the chicks. last egg is removed the The incubator must remain operating until The incubator can be single or multi-stage, but all eggs should beThe incubator can be single or multi-stage,

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ that can result in chick injury, chick escape, wing/leg/head/footVerify the condition of hatcher basket during routine welfare audits. Hatcher baskets should not have holes, cracks or damage of the hatcher. entrapment. A lid should always be present on the top hatcher basket to ensure that chicks cannot escape and fall to the floor Transferring too early or too late can result in embryos being subjected to sub-optimal conditions which then canthen which conditions sub-optimal to subjected being embryos in result can late too or early too Transferring and reduce chick quality. cause lower hatchability pointsKey egg in transfer include Egg Transfer the Eggs are removed from COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 29 EGG TRANSFER ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

to apointwhereembryoscansuffocate andseverelyreducehatchability. humidity levels in the hatcher after transfer can reduce the oxygen content fully for the first 3 to 4 hours after transfer to help reduce the humidity. High If hatchersand/orbasketsarenot dryattransfer,openthehatcherdamper followed. manufacturer andthevaccinationequipmentshould be not compatiblewithoilemulsions.Detailedinstructionsfromthe vaccine which canreducehatchandchickquality.Keepinmind, after 19 days, there is ahigherriskofmissingthecorrect site of injection down will most likely kill the embryos. If vaccinating eggs before day 18 or air cellatthetopwhereneedlewillbeinserted.Vaccinatingeggs upside damaging orkillingtheembryo,eggmustbecorrectlyoriented withthe the need for chick handling, manuallabor and personnel errors. To prevent In-ovo contamination. the hygiene of transferring suction cups and tweezers to preventcross- with care special take transfer, automatic using When last. eggs floor and flocks older from eggs transfer and first flocks younger from eggs Transfer when usinganautomatictransfersystem(seesection17). into thetotalnumberofcontaminatedeggsfrombreakoutsession records, besuretoincludevisiblycontaminatedeggs(rots,exploders,etc) these eggs are a serious contaminationrisk.For accurate hatchability these eggstoavoidrupturingbeforeplacingindisinfectingsolution,as removed and placed in a receptacle with disinfectant. Carefully handle Prior to transfer, all contaminated eggs (“rots” and “exploder”) should be pressure typicallycausesdamagetothelargeendofegg. contents. Eggs from embryonic death are still moist. Excessive vacuum but thecontentsarestillsoft.Earliercracksusuallyresultinverydryegg damage. Checkfortransfercracksinwhichtheeggwillhavesomedrying Audit transfercrewsandcheckequipmentregularlytoreduce vaccinations can provide early immunity for the embryo and reduce vaccinationscanprovideearlyimmunityfortheembryoandreduce in-ovo vaccines are vaccinesare these systemscanalsocauseshell damage(bottomphoto). faster than a manualsystem, but check and adjust thepressure as Automated transferequipment cantransfereggsmoregentlyand stage maycauseeggdamagethatcanembryonicmortality. of the embryo and may hinder hatch. Handling eggs roughly at this membrane to stick to the embryo, which will disrupt the movements photo). Cracks in the eggshell can cause dehydration and the internal care mustbetakenwhentransferringeggstoavoidbreakages (top some oftheshellcalciumforskeletaldevelopment.Therefore, Shells are more brittle at transfer because the embryos have absorbed COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 30 EGG TRANSFER disinfectants through the delivery system. Check the delivery system on a regulara on system delivery the Check system. delivery the through disinfectants solenoids as needed.basis and clean, repair, or replace valves and before take-off. Glutaraldehyde/ quaternary ammonium mixes or peroxide then can hours before take-off. be used for the last 12 Formaldehyde Formaldehyde, in the liquid form, can be a very and regions permit the use of thisformaldehyde is carcinogenic and not all countries effective antimicrobial.However, formaldehydeusing consider you before regulations local your with Check chemical. in your hatchery. It is important to note that formaldehyde changes the fluff color notif chicks baby to harmful be can formaldehyde that and yellow to white from administered properly. exceednot should cycle hatch entire the in used formaldehyde of amount total The total amount of formaldehyde should be0.062 ml/egg capacity of the hatcher. This the hatch process.administered evenly and consistently throughout Preventative Maintenance your hatchery preventative maintenanceThe disinfectant system should be included in doses of disinfectant at the correctprogram to ensure that accurate and consistent aware that many disinfectants containparticle size are delivered to each hatch. Be as a sticky residue. This residue cansurfactants and that surfactants can accumulate cause functional issues with pressure valves or solenoids used to regulate flow of

Animal Welfare Tips Do not use a solution greater than 3 % as this product is very corrosive. very is product this as % 3 than greater solution a use not Do ination load in the environment and prevent in the environment and contamination load to reduce the microbial This can be helpful the hatching period. to the hatchers during add disinfectant Many hatcheries hatch the throughout consistently and evenly delivered be should disinfectant Any failures. incubation or handling egg are there when especially cross-contamination, and concentration. disinfectant in intervals can produce fluctuations in the dosage process. Delivering the forlocal legislation Follow hatchery. the throughout safety chemical ensure to safety hygiene industrial and employees of training formal requires any chemical use of The protection equipment is being used correctly.personnel rigorously, and ensure all personal chemical usage, train ured. If the ppm is too high, the chemical can have a negativeIf using formaldehyde or a disinfectant to reduce bacterial contamination in the hatcher, the concentration (ppm) must be meas icks. impact on chick welfare and health. Specifically, high levels can negatively impact the trachea and respiratory tract of the ch and timing guidelines given for the glutaraldehyde and quaternary ammonium mixes.and timing guidelines given for the glutaraldehyde withused be can peroxides and mixes ammonium quaternary Glutaraldehyde/ of these chemicals,combination using a formaldehyde, but not simultaneously. If each one should be used at different time points during incubation. For example, formaldehyde may be used until 12 hourswhere allowed by government regulations, temperature. successfully used as disinfectants in thePeroxide based products have also been hatcher. and be aware that some variation in theWhen preparing the solution, check the label quality of the manufacturer. Use cleanconcentration can be expected based on the solution. Follow the same dosagewater, preferably distilled, to prepare the peroxide doses every 30 minutes until the chicks are removed from the hatcher. In somedoses every 30 minutes until the chicks are are used. Dosing volume and time canoperations, smaller doses at shorter intervals equipmenthatching your to according optimized and operation your for adjusted be size 16-micron to 14 a as disinfectant the Deliver factors. specific hatchery other and that spraying larger particle sizes mayparticle to promote evaporation. Keep in mind andhumidity increase then can which hatcher the in accumulation moisture cause Disinfectants are available of glutaraldehyde and quaternary ammonium Disinfectants composed canchemicals These hatcher. the in used be can that applications agricultural for manufacturer’sthe on based ppm 800 to 400 of concentration a at administered be 20mlas applied be can disinfectants these transfer, egg at Beginning directions. Disinfection during the hatching period the hatching during Disinfection COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 31 Factors InfluencingChickSize the chickroomordeliveryvehicle. in temperatures lower at time to compared dehydration to due weight chick on effect the totalamountoftimespentinhatcherathighertemperatures willhaveagreater However, weight. chick final affect collectively will time delivery and take-off, hatch, The from eggs of the same weight during incubation contribute to variations in chick weight. Egg weight decreases due to moisture loss during incubation. Variations in moisture loss https://www.cobb-vantress.com/resource). at: (available weights egg for standards specific has line Cobb Each cracks. with eggs of water and feed. Using eggs that are over 70 grams may result in an increased number using eggsthatarelessthan48gramsmayproduceachickistoosmalltoreach 40 grams.Individualchickweightsarelikelytorangefrom3446Beawarethat of eggweight.Thus,chicksfromeggsaveraging60gramswill,onaverage,weigharound Egg sizeisthemainfactorassociatedwithchicksize.Chickweightnormally66to68% 6 FACTORS INFLUENCINGCHICKSIZE COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 32 HATCHER OPERATION HATCHER 7 Seasonal temperature changes impacting the hatchery environment Seasonal temperature changes impacting the Eggs which have been stored for long periods Eggs which have been stored at too low a temperature Maintenance issues Incorrect incubation patterns in multi-stages machines Disease and fertility issues Incubating eggs too late humidity Incorrect incubator/hatcher temperature and Incorrect ventilation (air volume/damper calibration)

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Factors causing late or delayed hatching include: Factors causing late or delayed hatching The Hatch Window Maintenance issues Seasonal temperature changes impacting the hatchery environment Temperature fluctuations during storage Extended pre-heating periods of incubation Incubating eggs too early / too many hours humidity Incorrect incubator/hatcher temperature and Hot spots inside the incubator and hatcher Incorrect ventilation (air supply/damper calibration)

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ embryonic development and lower temperatures reduce metabolism and delay embryonic development. For optimal hatch and chick quality, it is criticaluniform to maintain temperature a and humidity across the hatcher. Factors causing early hatching include: The hatch window is the time frame spanning from the first chick to the last chick hatching. If the chicks are hatchingtoo early, they can become susceptible to problems such as dehydration, which can lead to increased day 7 and mortality 14 and poor broiler performance. Chicks hatching too late can result in poor quality chicks,pipped increased eggs, and live embryo unhatched eggs. It is important to note that you cannot hatch all the chicks at the same time and it is normal to see amonga hatch eggs window varies of but 24 isto largely30 hours dependent from on the ratefirst of embryo to developmentlast chick. where higher Hatch incubation time temperatures increase metabolism and promote increased Even though the hatcher period makes up only percent 14 of total incubation time, this period has a significant impact on chick quality. Since chick quality has an impacton broiler performance, providing an optimal hatcher environment (temperature, humidity and ventilation) will ensure high quality chicks that can reach their fullpotential. genetic 7.1 Hatcher Operation Hatcher COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 33 HATCHER OPERATION Both consequences canproducenegativewelfareoutcomes andmayresultinchicksdepleting yolkreservesmorequickly. A well-managedhatch windowwillresultingoodquality chicksthatareactive,alert, andlessstress.Ifchickshatchtoorly,theyaremore ealikelytoexperiencethermalstressand dehydration. percentages are cumulative totals of chicks hatched at each time point. percentages arecumulativetotalsofchickshatchedateachtime point. The take-off. before hours 12 hatched be should % 75 about and take-off before hatched 36h prior to take-off time, no more than 25 % should be hatched 24 hours basket shouldbeeventhroughoutthehatcher.Ideally,there benochicks then transferredtothehatcher.Thenumberofchickshatched ineachhatcher Eggs Figure 3 which were in the top, middle and bottom positions in the 0 Animal WelfareTips -32 0 0 25% Ideal Percent Hatched Percent Ideal Hours UntilTake-Off -24 25% Top Hours Until Pull Until Hours 25% Middle 75% Bottom -12 75% 75% 100% 100% 0 incubator 100% and and should hatch in the final 12 hours prior to take-off. should hatchinthefinal12hourspriortotake-off. to take-off, a total of 75 % of the chicks should hatch. The final 25 % of the chicks prior hours 12 At take-off. to prior hours 24 at hatch should chicks the of % 25 basket shouldbeeventhroughoutthehatcher.Inanidealhatching spread, then transferredtothehatcher.Thenumberofchickshatchedin eachhatcher Eggs whichwere Figure 4 0 -32 0 0 inthetop,middleandbottompositions 25% Ideal Hatch Spread -24 25% Top Hours UntilTake-Off Hours Until Pull Until Hours 25% Middle 75% Bottom -12 75% 75% 25% 25% 0 25% incubator and and COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 34 HATCHER OPERATION HATCHER . Be sure the end (tip) is clean before use. Only insert the tip of the thermometer as far as the and placing these in the top positions of and placing these in X 100 = percentage X 100 of chicks hatched hours 12 before take-off incubator rapid-temperature reading to measure chick cloacal temperature Animal Welfare Tips Use a digital thermometer with a edge of the silver/metal tip to avoid chick damage and injury. The calculation to determine the percentage of chicks that are expected hours to hatch 12 before take-off is: Number of chicks hatched hours 12 before take-off Number of chicks hatched in the same baskets at take-off at 24, 18, 12, and hours6 12, at24, 18, before actually removing chicks from the hatchers. Measure the temperature of a dry chick as temperatures of wet chicks will be inaccurate (lower). Formula 6 assessment. If chicks are hatching too early or too late, adjust incubation time to hatch the chicks asare hatching too early or too late, adjust incubation assessment. If chicks as possible. close to take-off time When a chick is hatched, the ideal internal body temperature should be between 40.0 to 40.6 °C (104.0 °F).to 105.0 measure To this temperature, it is recommended that a digital rectal thermometer be process hatch the throughout chicks times various multiple of temperature internal the Check used. Hatch window assessmentHatch a hatch window assessment. These at least 3 baskets per machine when doing It is important to count the hatcher. We recommend taking be from the top, middle, and bottom of three baskets should and bottom tray of the eggs from a top, middle, windowhatch the do to easier it makes top on baskets 3 these Placing transfer. at trolley hatcher the COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 35 HATCHER OPERATION in the hatcher. issue ventilation or atemperature be may there hatcher, same the in baskets several among considerably varies soilage eggshell of level the have If long. too chicks for the held been soiled, very are eggshells all If correct. is time incubation the clean, are eggshells all If shells. the of cleanliness the for baskets hatcher several Check indicate proper hold time in the hatcher, but check chicks to ensure they are dry. Completely clean eggshells can also indicate the incubation time is too short. short. too is time incubation the indicate also can eggshells clean Completely dry. are they ensure to chicks check but hatcher, the in time hold proper indicate can eggshells Clean droppings). chick first (the meconium green with soiled become can eggshells the long, too hatcher the in been have chicks hatcher. When the in chicks of temperature and time the to needed are adjustments if indicate to used be can basket hatcher the in eggshells the temperature, chick to addition In √ × COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 36 HATCHER OPERATION HATCHER other bacterial E. coli and F) chicks begin to huddle and thermal stress ° C (103 ° infections. Cloacal temperatures should be checked 12 hatchers at hours time of before take-off, in take-off, the chick in processing the and holdingwhen the chicks arrive at the farm. rooms, and It is critical to keep the cloacal temperature below 41.1 °C (106 °F). Once theIt is critical to keep the cloacal temperature dehydrationto pant and starts 41.1 °C (106 °F) the chick temperature reaches starts to occur. Below 39.4 (106 °F) can cause an increase inwill occur. Extended periods over 41.1 °C and 7-day mortality due to dehydration, pericarditis, Temperature Overheating the chicks in the hatcher during the first 24 hours post-transfer in the hatcher can lead to an early hatch, large navel buttons (photo on the left), dehydrated navelsmall cause chick quality issues including can same period post-transfer the cool in too hatcher temperatures which are In contrast, mortality. chicks, and high 7-day buttons (photo on right), an extended or long hatching window (time from firstchick hatched to final chick), and in extreme cases reduced hatch associated with increased increased early mortality. alive or dead pips and Cloacal temperature can be used as an indication of overheating with normalCloacal temperature can be used as an indication temperature range being 40.0 to 40.6 °C (104.0 to 105.0 °F). hatched chicks. In even the best scenario, the hatch window in commercialhatched chicks. In even the best scenario, hatcheryevery of goal the though and hours, 24 least at be will operations hatcher as soon as they are ready,manager is to remove the chicks from the held in the hatchers for severalit is not feasible. Instead, chicks are normally this holding period, the temperaturehours until all hatchlings are ready. During to prevent overheating the chicks.in the machine must be lowered consistently As chicks begin to emerge from the shell, the temperature in the hatcher musthatcher the in temperature the shell, the from emerge to begin chicks As and dehydration of the newlybe gradually lowered to prevent overheating 7.2 COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 37 HATCHER OPERATION is not designed to overheating. cool after chicks profile The hot. too fromgetting chicks hatched is to prevent profile hatcher the managing behind strategy the to that note is It important curve. temperature hatcher the of timing the impact also will period time each at hatched chicks of percentage hatch total the or hatcher each in spread window hatch the as such factors Other decrease. if by isthe window delaying hatchtemperature a later, by 4the accordingly Conversely, profile hours. a adjust forward corresponding beand high, should the profile shifted too is temperature 492), the of instead hours 488 at %hatch (75 advanced is window hatch the If incubation. of hours 504 492, and 480, at hatched chicks of percentage theideal includes of incubation, in hours given graph, of theThe x-axis 98 °F(36.7 °C). below atemperature air requiring flow poor very with machines oldest the only with profile shouldbe all used inlowerAlmost regardless hatchers, ofwith airmachines manufacturer, speeds. fall intothe range of98 to°F98.5(36.7 to36.9 at transfer, °C) Figure 5 shows possible two scenarios for hatcher temperature profiles.The higher profile should be used for machineswith high within airflow the hatcher. The cooler (36.7 (36.9 98.5 98 456 ° ° ° F ° C) C) F Low Air Flow Air Low Flow Air High (25% Hatched) (25% (36.7 (36.9 98.5 98 480 ° ° ° F ° C) C) F Hatcher Temperature Profiles for High and Low Air Flow Flow Low Air and High for Profiles Temperature Hatcher (36.4 (36.7 97.5 98 488 ° ° ° ° F C) C) F (75% Hatched) (75% (36.1 (36.4 97.5 97 492 Hours of Incubation of Hours ° ° ° F ° C) C) F (35.8 (36.1 96.5 97 496 ° ° ° F ° C) C) F (35.6 (35.8 96.5 96 500 ° ° ° F ° C) C) F (100% Hatched) (100% (35.3 (35.6 95.5 96 504 ° ° ° ° F C) C) F (34.7 94.5 (35 95 508 ° ° ° C) ° F C) F COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 38 HATCHER OPERATION HATCHER levels can 2 levels change over time due to chick levels change over time 2 per hr) or according to the manufacturer’s per hr) or according 3 25 % 50 % 75 % . Therefore, operation of the damper is critical to supplying thesupplying to critical is damper the of operation Therefore, . 2 Percentage of chicks hatched be completely sealed. Fresh air supplied to the plenum should be 10 to 17 Fresh air supplied to the plenum should be completely sealed. to 28.9 m cfm per 1000 eggs (17.0 the hatcher, the CO recommendation. In CO However, it is important to note that high hatching and respiration. development. In and even negatively impact heart and lung cause lethargic chicks and reduce of the damper will provide fresh oxygen most hatchers, the opening CO of levels the humidity and oxygen levels to the chicks.correct temperature, to maintaining the hatcherWhile temperature and humidity are crucial canventilation hatcher Correct critical. also is exchange air optimal environment, in the plenum supplying air toonly be achieved by having the correct conditions humidityand temperature enough have to is goal the transfer At machines. the damper to open quickly. Later as thein the intake plenum to allow the hatcher plenum temperature may need totemperature of the machine is lowered, the cool. However, enough temperaturebe lowered as well to allow the machines to proper damper openings.must be maintained in the plenum to achieve The hatcher room should have fresh air and exhaust fluff plenums, which should which plenums, fluff exhaust and air fresh have should room hatcher The 50 % 75 % 100 % Damper opening 24 18 12 Timing and amount of hatcher damper opening based on chick take-off time Timing and amount of hatcher damper opening Time (hours before take-off) , because humidity must be maintained in the hatcher, because humidity must incubator Ventilation and Humidity Ventilation 7.3 lowering the wet bulb setting along with the temperature setting to maintain alowering the wet bulb setting along with the the newly hatchedindex on heat the raising avoid humidity and relative constant chicks. During the first 24causingstarts, the moisture level will rise pipping approximately 52 to 54 %. When hours after transfer,theof most After well. as rise to humidity absolute and temperature bulb wet the the relative humidity should be willhumidity absolute the hatch), total the of % 75 (around hatched have chicks however the relative humiditydecrease back to the set point of the machine, should remain constant as the temperature profile is lowered. This will require extremes, a low relative humidity (RH) in the hatcher can delay the hatch widow humidity (RH) in the hatcher can delay the extremes, a low relative while a has been correlated with higher 7 day mortalities, and, in some studies, Adequateviscera. exposed of incidence increased an to lead may RH high very strings the yolk sac from drying too quickly, preventing humidity will also prevent or wicks from the navel. It is impossible to correct moisture loss in the hatcher if it is not properly moisture loss in the hatcher if it It is impossible to correct achieved in the so that the is necessary during the hatching process after transfer. Humidity Ateasily. hatch to chick the allowing pliable and soft remain membranes shell COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 39 HATCHER OPERATION taking theirinternalbodytemperaturetoseewhetheryouneed tomovethenextsteporwhetherprogressionhasbeentoofast. Adjusting hatcher air temperature, then hallway room conditions and last increasing negative plenum pressure. With this step-wise method, monitor the chicks closely, It isimportanttofollowthesestepsinthisorder hatcher machineasdesigned,butrather,airpassesdirectlythrough thehatcherandisnotdistributedthroughoutmachine. the through circulate not does air case, this In hatchers. the in chicks the to air the of effect bypassing a to lead can much too pressure negative this Increasing ability. The last step is to increase the negative pressure setting in the exhaust plenum of the hatcher. This will force additional air into the machine providing additional cooling 105.0 °F). (104.0and °C 40.6 and 40.0 The hallwaytemperaturecanbedecreasedinstepstopreventa dramaticdropinthehatchertemperaturesandallowchickbodytemperaturetoremainbetween should be lowered as a first step. However, if the hatcher is lowered to its minimum setting, lower the temperature in the hatcher hallway to help provide cooler intake air. Using chickcloacaltemperatureisagoodmeasureofhowtoadjustthehatcherenvironment.If iselevated,thehatchertemperature Below areguidelinesforthehatcherhallwaytemperatureandtheplenumpressure.However,thesemayrequireadjust ments specificforyouroperation. 7.4 Adjusting theHatcherEnvironment Time (hoursbeforetake-off) At transfer 12 8 4 Hatcher HallwayTemperature 23 ⁰C(73⁰F) 24 ⁰C(75⁰F) 25 ⁰C(77⁰F) 26 ⁰C(79⁰F) In inchesofwatercolumn(Pascals) Plenum Pressure -0.035 (-8.75) -0.025 (-6.25) -0.030 (-7.5) -0.020 (-5.0) COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 40 CHICK TAKE-OFF AND PROCESSING CHICK TAKE-OFF 8 should be 11 to 13 % by incubator yield ( >70 % ) may % ) yield ( >70 high

be late hatchlings sacs yolk large have have been incubated at low temperatures or high humidity

Chicks with a ✓ ✓ ✓ yield ( <65 % ) may low have been incubated at a high temperature or low humidity have spent too long in the hatcher be dehydrated dehydrated be have a relatively small yolk reserve Chick Yield Calculations

✓ ✓ Chicks with a ✓ ✓ is not focused on individual egg and chick weights. or 67 % of the initial egg weight. To achieve this egg weight loss, humidity in the In general, a day-old chick should weigh two-thirds achieve to profiles incubation adjust should a hatchery The duration. transportation considering when factor important an also is yield Chick 4.4). section (See transfer to be placed on close farms. If chicks are transported over long distances, a higher chick yield of 68 to 70 % is more ideal.chick yield between 66 and 68 % if chicks are during transit, a higher percentage of chick yield is recommended so that chicks with longer journey times will arrive atDue to the natural weight loss that may occur of 66 to 68 %.the farm with a yield close to the normal range Chick yield is a calculation of the chick body weight as a percentage of the total egg weight at incubation. This number can be useful as a key performance indicator forChick yield is a calculation of the chick body and sources, flock individual from obtained chicks and eggs of weights average the from calculated is percent yield Chick time. hatching and incubation of hatchery the during incubation reducing the rate of development. 8.1 Chicks are ready to be removed from the hatcher when most of them are dry and fluffed up, and a few (about 5 %) still have some moisture on the backs of their necks. their of backs the on moisture some have still %) 5 (about a few and up, fluffed and dry are them of most when hatcher the from removed be to ready are Chicks 105.0 °F). be between 40.0 and 40.6 °C (104.0 and the ideal cloacal temperature should When a chick is dry post-hatch reducing damage, gut lead to can Overheating dehydrate. they overheat and subsequently so the hatchers in spend too long to to allow chicks common mistake is A eggexcessive age, egg for time incubation of adjustment incorrect from result may chicks of Dehydration growth. impact subsequently and ability, absorption nutrient downcooled have may that eggs for and incubation times check ready, not are chicks if overheating. Similarly, to due chick panting or incubation during loss weight Chick Take-Off and Processing and Chick Take-Off COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE CHICK TAKE-OFFANDPROCESSING 41 (Chicks inchickboxweight-Empty chickboxweight) To calculateaveragechickweight: Formula 8 (Full trayweightatincubation-Emptyweight) To calculateaverageeggweight: Formula 7 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1. the incubators).Toincreaseaccuracyofdata,trytoplacetraysinsamelocationswithin accuracy and continuity. Place these trays in different locations throughout the 4.4). Begin by clearly marking three to five trays of hatching eggs per flock or incubator. These trays should be clearly marked throughout the incubation process to ensure Chick yieldcalculationscanbeintegratedwitheggmoisturelossasbothbegintheweightofatrayeggspriortoincubating(seesection Calculating ChickYield

Place all the chicks into the empty hatcher basket and weigh. Place allthechicksintoemptyhatcherbasketandweigh. At chicktake-off,weighanemptybasketandrecordtheweight. responding label. At transfer,ensurethattheeggsaretransferredfromincubatortraytohatcherbasketwithcor Mark thehatcherbasketwithsamelabelasincubatortray. tion shouldbequalityhatchingeggsfreeofanyshellissues,cracksormisshapeneggs. Next, eachincubatortray with eggsshouldbeweighedjustbeforeincubation.The eggs usedinthiscalcula provide moredetaileddata. Weigh anemptyindividualincubatortray.Weighingeachcomponentingramscanimproveaccuracyand Number ofchicks Number ofeggs =AverageEggWeight =AverageChickWeight incubator to achieve the unbiased calculations (i.e. placed in the top, middle and bottom of to achieve the unbiased calculations (i.e. placed in the top, middle and bottom of Average EggWeight Average chickweight To calculateaveragepercentage ofchickyield: Formula 9 incubators - - X 100 = average percentage chick yield X100=averagepercentagechick yield each time for subsequent calculations. eachtimeforsubsequentcalculations. COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 42

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✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ The Cobb Chick Grading Guide is available on page 82 in the Appendices section of this guide. Colibacillosis Colibacillosis chick and conditions environmental and hygiene hatchery on Depending disease may be prone to Colibacillosis, a bacterial quality, some chicks caused by cause of Colibacillosis. Infection Poor hatchery sanitation is a leading as well as contaminated shell can occur via aerosols or oral routes, incubation period is typically 3 membranes, yolks, navels and water. The due to viral infections and to 5 days. Poor navel healing, mucosal damage factors to infections. immunosuppressive challenges are pre-disposing Animal Welfare Tips conveyor belts may also cause injurier including splayed legs. conveyor belts may also cause injurier including maintained to prevent chick injuryAll equipment must be correctly and regularly and to ensure accuracy of the process. contact areas including conveyersClean and disinfect all equipment and all chick and carousels thoroughly after each hatch. The body of the chick should be supported during handling and chicks shouldchicks and handling during supported be should chick the of body The never be handled by the leg, head or neck. contact areas including conveyersCarefully maintain the working order of all chick regularly for areas where mechanicaland carousels. Equipment should be checked andtransfer belts in can occur. Gaps or chick entrapment injury, points, pinch possibly be injured. Wet or smoothconveyors can create areas where chicks can temperature (24 to 28 °C; 73.4 to 82.4 °F) and humidity (65 to 70 %) in the chicktemperature (24 to 28 °C; 73.4 to 82.4 °F) in processing areas which can causeholding areas. Prevent drafts over the chicks temperature related stress. chicks from eggshells, counting chicks,Automated equipment used for separating processing time and the number ofand vaccinating chicks can decrease chick be handled gently and securely.people involved in handling chicks. Chicks should During processing, prevent overheating or chilling chicks by controlling the controlling by chicks chilling or overheating prevent processing, During carousels, overcrowd chicks on conveyers, vaccination environment. Do not the correctboxes. To prevent chick weight loss, maintain or in transportation

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ hould be aligned so chicks use them efficiently as they transition fromprocessing chicks to minimize drop distances for chicks. To minimize chick injury and loose chicks on the floor, these slides s nces should be no more than 15 to 30 cm (6 to 12 in). one area to the next and they should be positioned so that chicks are not crashing into or onto the slide. Ideally, drop dista onsider placing rubber padding or paper in the bottom of the carousel toIf transfer belts are inclined, use a rough or ridged belt to prevent chicks from slipping and tumbling. If using carousels, c ent of guards covering rollers, the alignment of dividers, and theprovide additional cushioning and to prevent a wet or slippery surface. If using an automated chick counter, check the adjustm be cleaned, installed and adjusted on automated equipment beforespacing between the dividers and the conveyor belts to prevent mechanical injuries to chicks. Slides, ramps and funnels should Management Guide available at: http://www.cobb-vantress.com/resources. Management Guide quality and count them into boxes. Additional chick services may be provided provided services may be Additional chick count them into boxes. quality and stock breeding For vaccination. and feather-sexing include that chicks broiler for vaccination, vent-sexing, or feather include will services chick additional chicks, vaccine the vaccination, the on Depending conditioning. toe and treatment beak or via spray. injection (manual or automated equipment) may be applied via Cobb Vaccination on vaccinations methods, see the (For more information After separating chicks from egg debris, hatcheries will typically grade chicks for for chicks grade typically will hatcheries debris, egg from chicks separating After Chick Processing COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 43 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Chick Holding Chick and directionof nearby fans. in the center of the box or on one side of the box, verify the angle, speed chicks if the air circulation creates a draft. If you see that chicks are huddled air draftsonthechicks.Fanscan resultinthermalstressandchillingofthe Place lidsoremptychickboxes on topofthechickboxstackstoprevent be evenlydistributedthroughoutthebox. comfortable andnotthermallystressed,theyshouldbecalm,resting and between andaroundstacksofchickboxesinaholdingroom.If chicks are to dissipate.Agoodruleof thumb isthat you shouldbe ableto easily walk heating thechicksifspacingorventilationdoesnotallowforheat and well-ventilated.Ifboxesaretooclose,thereisanincreasedriskofover equipment, etc.) so thatairmovementcan keep thechickscomfortable or trolleys and between the chick boxes and a solid surface (walls, doors, Adequate spacemustalwaysbeprovidedbetweenstacksofchickboxes chicks whichwillcreateachillingeffect. Ceiling fansshouldpulltheairtowardsceilingandnotdownacross stress. temperature prevent to starts (pull) take-off before room holding to temperaturesinthehigherendofrange.Pre-conditionchick and 105.0 °F). At higher air speeds, the room temperature should be set to maintainchickcloacaltemperaturesbetween40.0and40.6°C(104.0 should be adjusted to between 23.0 and 28.0 °C (73.4 and 82.4 °F) in order Humidity shouldbesetbetween65to70%andtheroomtemperature to fluctuate. speed interact with the temperature and can cause the room temperature removing excess body heat and ulate theirbodytemperature.Goodventilationduringholdingiscrucialto Newly hatched chicks are dependent on the environmental climate to reg CO 2 . Keep in mind that humidity and air Keep in mind that humidity and air - - ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

beaks to pant which can cause moisture loss from the lungs and air sacs beaks topantwhichcancausemoisturelossfromthelungsandairsacs If theenvironmentaltemperatureistoohot, spacing with correct airflow will allow the heat to dissipate from the todissipate heat boxes andhelpthechickstoregulatetheirbodytemperature. the allow will airflow correct with spacing dissapate fromthebox.Thiscancausechickstooverheat. Good incorrect are flow air and spacing If exchange atarateof68m worse. TheCO of theboxes,whichcanreduceventilationfreshairmakingissue to sticktheirheadsoutsideofboxes.Theymaycrowdaroundtheedges increase. WhenCO sufficient, not is ventilation the If area. that are damp from vaccination or after take-off in a warm and draft free wet orafterspray-vaccination.Itisespeciallyimportanttoholdchicks prone to chilling if they are pulled from the hatchers when they are still or pile on top of each other creating a smothering risk. Chicks are more If the environmental temperature is too cold, heat. Usefanstopromoteventilationandairflow. may becomeexcessivelynoisyandspreadtheirwingstotryrelease leading to possible dehydration. If the heat stress is not alleviated, chicks Animal WelfareTips 2 concentration should not go over 3000 ppm. Fresh air concentrationshouldnotgoover3000ppm.Freshair 2 levels are increased, chicks may gasp for air and try levelsareincreased,chicksmaygaspforairandtry 3 per hour1000chicks. , heat produced by the chicks cannot , heatproducedbythechickscannot the risk of CO chicks may huddle together chicks may huddle together chicks may open their chicksmayopentheir 2 accumulation can accumulation can CHICK PULLANDPROCESSING COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 44 CHICK TAKE-OFF AND PROCESSING CHICK TAKE-OFF Coverts may be longer than than longer be may Coverts primaries Male Coverts and primaries may may primaries and Coverts be the same length Thebottom row (primaries) of feathersis the same length or shorter than the top row (coverts) of feathers. - After several hours, feath ershave grown but coverts stillthe to3/4 are 1/2 length of the primaries - Female Animal Welfare Tips Feather Sexing Chicks Feather At hatch, coverts are 1/2 to to 1/2 are coverts hatch, At 3/4 the length of the prima ries The bottom row (primaries) of feathers is longer than the top row (coverts) of feathers. In some cases, chicks are separated by sex so that, at placement, the males and females can be managed according to their sex specific requirements. sexed feather be can format feather) (slow sexable feather the in chicks Broiler chicks. differentiating of method non-invasive and fast a is sexing Feather development feather of pattern same the show will females and males both feather) (fast sexable non-feather the In photos. the in shown as old at day the photos. of females shown in Feather sexing should be conducted in a well-lit area. Chicks should be lifted by placing the neck between the index and middle finger and supporting the body of the chick with the ring and little finger. Using gentle pressure, spread the wing out like a fan. The feathers onthe bottom row are the primaries and investigate the cause of any deviations. females deviates from normal (48 to 52), are coverts. If the ratio of males to the top row of feathers 8.2 s spread with minimal pressure. Boxes for sorting must be closeThe configuration for sexing chicks should allow accuracy and ease for team members. Chicks must always be held gently and wing between the index and middle finger and supporting the body of theenough to team members so that chicks can be placed into the boxes, never thrown. Chicks should be lifted by placing the neck chick with the ring and little finger. Never pick up chicks by the wing. COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE CHICK TAKE-OFFANDPROCESSING 45 usually based on: based usually are grading chick for Guidelines guide. grading chick 82 for page See subjective. be may and visually done are standards grading chick Traditional related to chicks that are weak and inactive. related tochicksthatareweakandinactive. be may disinfection excessive or disease ventilation, insufficient hatching, late handling, processingorotherstimulation.Multipleissuesincluding overheating, inactive, mayhaveahunchedappearance,andnotstand ormoveafter move within the chick box. Conversely, weak and tired chicks are normally chicks may exhibit normal behaviors like preening, pecking, chirping, and actively to light,noiseandmovement.Aftersprayvaccinationchick services,alert Healthy chicksshouldbealertandactive.Alertwillrespondvigorously Behavioral indicators mask whitechicksbygivingthemayellowcolor. sacs andhencepigmentsarepalerthannormal.However,formaldehydewill Chicks should be bright yellow. Overheated chicks have poorly absorbed yolk incubation. the humidity was too high or the egg did not lose enough moisture during chicks arewetorhavestickyfeathers(usuallyduetoalbumen)thisindicates The meconium can be a source of bacteria that can cause navel infections. If chick hasbeeninthehatchertoolongandbecomesoiledwithmeconium. Chicks shouldhavecleananddryfeathers.Dirtyfeatherscanindicatethatthe Appearance 8.3 d in a timely manner. assurance andwelfare standards,correctiveactionsshould bedocumentedtoensure thatanyconcernsareaddressed andresolvedinatimelymanner. Hatcheries should maintainawrittenreporttonoteall chickinjuries,loosechicks onthefloor,andanyprocessing/qualityoncernseachhatch cday.Basedonthehatchery’squality Chick Grading Animal WelfareTips in thehatcherbaskets. (overheating) and excessive time does indicateearlyhatching excess development of the wing feathers However, fluffy!). look during incubation (chicks must Good featherdevelopmentissynonymouswithgoodchick development Feathering the eggduetoincorrectincubatortemperatureorhighhumidity. the hatcherbasket. More commonly, they are aresult of poor positioning inside These legissuescanbetheresultofphysicalinjurysuchasachickslippingin Chicks mayhavesplayedlegsduetoaninjuryorweaknessofthetendons. Chicks should have clean legs with a waxy appearance and be well hydrated. Legs to Colibacillosisinfections. and poorlydevelopeddigestiveimmunesystems.Theyarealsomoreprone temperatures or insufficient humidity. Small chicks typically have smaller hearts, Smaller andshortchickscanbearesultofsmalleggs,highincubation Size COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 46

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Chick Grading CharacteristicsChick Grading Navel Clean and well healed Closed but slight scabbing Not closed with string or black button attached or discolored Reflex If placed on back, chick canIf placed on back, chick flip over in 4 to 10 seconds If placed on back, chick cannot flip over in less than 10 seconds If placed on back, chick canIf placed on back, chick flip over in 3 seconds Animal Welfare Tips closure) may look very small at this stage, it can become moreChick grading is very important for the future welfare and performance of the flock. For example, while a grading defect (navel t what quality defects are not allowed and should provide a cullproblematic for the chicken as it grows. The hatchery should provide staff responsible for grading with clear expectations abou box or disposal for cull chicks at each grading station. Characteristic Cull (C grade) Acceptable (B grade) Excellent (A grade) COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 47 Hatchery WasteDisposal method anddestinationofhatcherywaste.Whereallowed,cleareggscollectedattransfermaybesoldforotherbyproductindus tries suchaspetfoodorfertilizer. disposal the regarding regulations have countries Most waste. hatchery constitute take-off, chick after remain that eggshells the with along eggs, non-viable and Infertile ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

unhatched eggscanreleasemold andbacteriainsidethehatcheryifcrushed. Eggs and shell debris should not be crushed inside the hatchery. Contaminated eggs and constraints. storage hopper.Thisshouldbedisposedofaccordingtolocallegislation andenvironment Macerated debriscanbeauguredintoabinortrailer,removed byvacuumintoasealed maceration andgas. of theequipment.Euthanasiamethodsthatarecommonlyused inhatcheriesinclude of theprocess,set-upanduseequipment, training fortheoperator be euthanizedinaccordancewithrelevantlegislationthatmay specifythefrequency Chicks (cull chicks, byproduct chicks, and surplus chicks) and chicks in pipped eggs should of thehatchery. areas processing and take-off the in contamination minimizes it and embryos unhatched is thepreferredmethodofdisposalsinceitahumaneeuthanasiaforlive, accordance with relevant legislation. For welfare and biosecurity reasons, maceration Eggs remaininginthehatcherbasketafterchicksareremovedshouldbemacerated 9 HATCHERY WASTEDISPOSAL COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 48 TRANSPORTATION 10 source of ventilation) should the chiller unit fail, as with most systems,source of ventilation) should the chiller Additional air inlets or a diverterventilation air is sourced from the chiller unit. problems. can be installed to prevent potential overheating/ventilation The duration of the trip should be considered and any necessary logisticsThe duration of the trip should be considered and the planned route should(fuel, etc.) associated with the length of time be addressed prior to loading. with temperature-controlTransport vehicles for chicks must be equipped systems fail during transport. Ifcapabilities, and with alarms should these the environment, chick the from separated physically is driver truck chick the within the load anddriver should have a display showing the temperature Asneeds. chick meet to temperature air adjust to able be should driver the for chick delivery vehicles, thepart of the preventative maintenance program be tested prior to each deliverytemperature monitoring equipment should and should be calibrated regularly. (additionalsystem back-up a have should units chiller with trucks Ideally

✓ ✓ ✓ s energy could have been used homeostasis. This energy could have been residual yolk to bring their body back to range, the chicks must use the energy of the ) are outside the ideal Animal Welfare Tips 2 chicks on farm and their access to food and water.chicks on farm and their access to food and temperaturecorrect the Ideally, loading. to prior truck the cool or Pre-heat range (23 to 28 °C; 71.0 to 82.4 °F) should be achieved before the first box of chicks is loaded. set at 65 to 70 %. The relative humidity of the truck should be and the filter cleaned regularly. Filters in temperature control systems can that can present infectionaccumulate dirt, mold and other microorganisms filterssystem handling air replace or Clean transported. being chicks to risks on a regular basis. timethe increase can paperwork with issues as delivery for paperwork Check unloading and placement ofthe chicks are held on the truck. This can delay Ensure that the truck has been cleaned and disinfected. Ensure that the truck has been cleaned and heating system and fans. Check the operation of the trucks cooling / unitfiltration a have should truck the within system control temperature The

should utilize a vehicle inspection form to verify truck conditionsA complete inspection of the vehicle and the truck generator should be conducted prior to each delivery. Ideally, the hatchery to respond to any delays or problems that may occur during theand settings prior to loading. Drivers should also have emergency guidelines and delivery paperwork in the vehicle to be able journey. Preparing the transportPreparing truck atmospheric O and, in turn, increase early susceptibility of chicks to infection can also impact health and increase the for productivity. Stress during transportation for growth but is a loss mortality. welfare, and health chick on of transportation impact Given the system. immune the and yield rate, growth conversion, feed to impact potential the has Transportation during transportation units to control the chick environment the chicks' needs. This includes air handlng well-maintained, and equipped to provide vehicles should be reliable, regulations for transportation as legislation may vary based on location.from the hatchery to the farm. Check with local tal conditions (temperature, humidity, if the environmental conditions (temperature, food and water during transportation. However, have a residual egg yolk that can provide Newly hatched chicks ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Transportation COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE TRANSPORTATION 49 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Loading andtransporting conditions. loading chicksduring weatherextreme(coldorheat), the hatcheryshouldhavea secure meansofloadingchickboxes tolimitanynegativeimpact onchickwelfarefromexternalclimatic Chick trucksshould achievetheexpectedtemperature beforechicksareloadedtoprevent thermalstressandtoavoid exposing tolargevariations inenvironmentalconditions.Ifregularly

being unloaded. being unloaded. A rear plastic curtain in the truck can be used to retain heat while chicks are areas legislatechickdensity. to reduce the stocking density per box. Check with local regulations as some For longjourneys,badroadconditions,orhotweather,itisrecommended cooling toaccommodateplasticboxes. chilling thanthoseincardboard.Ensurethevehiclehasadequateheatingand Chicks deliveredinplasticboxesrequiregreatercaretopreventoverheatingor using adatalogger. boxes or20°C(71°F)incardboardboxes.Boxtemperaturecanbechecked can usually be achieved with a vehicle air temperature of 24 °C (75 °F) in plastic The temperatureinsidetheboxesshouldbeapproximately32°C(90°F)and the wintertimeanddoublethisinsummertime. The minimum ventilation rate should be 20 CFM (34 m chicks tobecomeentrapped. as well as tilting the boxes. These types of movements can cause piling or cause Take carewhenloadingstackedboxestoavoidjarringorsuddenmovements Chicks shouldbecompletelydrybeforeloadingintothetruck. Animal WelfareTips movement duringthejourney. of the vehicle to prevent any with abarrunningthefullwidth row ofboxesshouldbelocked movement aroundthem.Each and spaced to allow free air Boxes mustbecorrectlystacked 3 / hr) per 1000 chicks in / hr) per 1000 chicks in ✓ ✓ Delivery andunloading ✓ ✓ ✓ Biosecurity ✓ ✓ ✓

During unloading, the doors of the truck should not be facing the wind to During unloading, the doors of the truck should not be facing the wind to unnecessary stops. Once chicksareloadedandsecured,drivedirectlytothefarmdonotmake must bekeptseparateandthoroughlywasheddisinfectedbefore re-use. Chick boxesreturningtothehatcherypresentahighbiosecurity risk.They cleaned betweenfarmsifdeliveringtomorethanonelocationin aday. hatchery. Vehiclesshouldcarryadisinfectantspraysothatthewheels canbe Power washdeliveryvehicleswithdetergent/disinfectantoneach returntothe poultry houseofafarm. footwear for each delivery. Drivers should not enter the hatchery or enter the should start theday with clean clothing andshouldchange into fresh coveralls/ Chick deliverydriversmustbewell-trainedandconscientious.Eachdriver not leaveboxesortrolleysofchickswaitingoutsidethehouse. Do staff. the of pace the meet to boxes chick or chicks of trolleys unload Only loaded last. be should first delivered being chicks made, being is delivery one than more If feed andwater,sanitaryconditions,lightingtemperature. entering the house, note the conditions in the house including availability of including anyexcessivepanting,huddling,andmortality.Ifpossible,without Use adeliverylogbooktorecordthetemperatureandconditionofchicks prevent chillingthechicks. COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 50

ALTITUDE Oxygen Availability (%) (%) Availability Oxygen 22 24 20 18 16 14 12 10000 11 8000 6000 Barometric Pressure Barometric AvailableOxygen Altitude(m) 4000 2000 0

250 150 850 750 650 550 450 350 Pressure (mmHg) Pressure Oxygen Availability Hatcheries operated at high altitudes may experience reduced hatchability, with much greater effects above 2500 ft (762 m). Hatchability problems at high altitudes are due are altitudes high at problems Hatchability m). (762 ft 2500 above effects greater much with hatchability, reduced experience may altitudes high at operated Hatcheries and oxygen of pressure partial does as altitude, with declines pressure Barometric eggs. the from loss moisture increased and air the in oxygen of availability reduced to absolute humidity. Fresh air ventilating will tend to be colder and drier than at sea level. Incubators with poor temperature or humidity control systems will have difficulty conditions.coping with challenging conditioning the incoming airflow will require specific adjustments.conditioning the incoming airflow will require from tissues resulting in lower blood and tissue oxygen levels.from tissues resulting in lower blood and tissue %.20 least at be always should incubators the in availability oxygen The but keep in mind thatProper ventilation can improve oxygen availability, and temperature control.over-ventilation may cause issues with humidity humidity,and temperatures lower have areas often altitude high Since partial pressure is reduced at higher altitudes which impacts oxygenimpacts which altitudes higher at reduced is pressure partial together in air, so thatavailability. Partial pressure squeezes molecules further apart and hencereduced pressure results in molecules being Therefore, the reduced partialfewer molecules of oxygen in each breath. for each breath of air. Inpressure at higher altitudes provides less oxygen is more easily releasedaddition, this pressure reduction means oxygen 11.1 of the elevation, butAir is always composed of 21 % oxygen regardless Altitude COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 51 ALTITUDE ght loss (see moisture loss section 4.3). the shellandhelppreventdehydration.However,itisrecommended toadjustthehumiditysettingsreachcorrecteggweightloss(seemoisturesection4.3). Some evidence indicates that breeders kept at high altitudes produce eggs with lower porosity. A lower porosity egg would reduce conductance of gases and vapors across will needtobeadjustedaswell. to higher humidity settings may offset the rapid diffusion of water out of the eggs. However, be aware that when humidity is adjusted, the temperature may also change and The conductance of the eggshell becomes extremely important at high altitudes because dehydration of eggs can significantly decrease hatchability. Adjusting the incubators Water loss from an egg during incubation is greater at high altitudes because water vapor diffuses through the shell more easily due to the decrease in atmospheric pressure. may be required for your machines. may berequiredforyourmachines. adjustments and parameters operation specific has manufacturer incubator Each assistance. technical and guidelines If planning to use an additional source of oxygen to increase the concentration, consult your incubator manufacturer for 1000 m(Seetabletoright). to those of sea level at altitudes below 1000 m (3281 ft) but can only partially restore concentrations when used above most concentrators canincreaseoxygenconcentration to amaximum of 23 %. This will restoreoxygen concentrations and removingnitrogen,therebyincreasingtheconcentrationofoxygenothergasesinair.Forsafetyreasons, Oxygen concentratorsareavailableasanalternativetousingpureoxygen.Concentratorsworkbytakinginambientair safety concern,asconcentrationsofoxygenover25%arenotrecommendedsinceisextremelyflammable. availability. Theuseofpureoxygen,however,istypicallycostprohibitiveatveryhighelevations.Pureoxygenalsoa in elevation (See table to right). This means hatcheries at 1,500 meters (4921 ft) would require more than 25 % oxygen level, the oxygen percentage in the air needs to be increased by roughly 2 % for every 500 meters (1640 ft) of increase To increaseavailability,oxygencanbedirectlyaddedtotheincubators.achievelevelsofavailabilityatsea 11.3 11.2 ✓ ✓ ✓

be an issue. To reduce late mortality, the correct oxygen concentrations in the hatchers are important. be anissue.Toreducelatemortality, thecorrectoxygenconcentrationsinhatchersareimportant. The embryo’s oxygen consumption increases by 60 % around the time of hatching. With the reduced oxygen availability at high altitudes, late embryonic mortality may Bodyweight ofchickshatchedathighaltitudesmaybereduced.This canbeattributedtoareductionofembryonicmetabolismbutmayalsofactordehydration. At highaltitudes,producersmayhaveissuesincludingnonstandard incubationperiodsandadecreaseinhatchability. Chick QualityandMortality Moisture Loss 2500(8202) 2000(6562) 1500(4921) 1000(3281) 500(1640) 0(0) Meters(feet) Altitude Required Oxygen 29.16 27.24 25.47 23.84 22.34 20.95 Concentration (%) COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 52 MAINTENANCE 12 s and hatchers are properly trained and have as and hatchers are properly trained and have incubator Temperature and humidity issues in incubators and hatchers Temperature and humidity issues in incubators Power failures of equipment Turning failures of equipment Pressure or ventilation settings out of range Doors opened

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ accumulation can also increase the pressure on piping joints and cause water leaks. Water systems used for humidification should be frommicroorganisms prevent to cleaned contaminating the system and forming remove. to challenging be can which biofilms Water and humidification Spray nozzles for humidifying systems ashould be cleaned or replaced on (scale)deposits Mineral basis. scheduled thereduce and nozzles on accumulate can water flow and increase droplet size. Scale Alarm systems Makeequipment. with issues or failures indicate to used be can systems Alarm operate that staff sure systemsAlarm failures. or issues equipment of event the in follow to procedure can be used to indicate: switches. Ensure all working practices comply with safety legislation.switches. Ensure all working practices comply All maintenance records should be shared with the hatchery management. stock. When parts are taken from the stock, record the date and which piecestock. When parts are taken from the stock, be used toequipment they were used to repair. This information can of address reoccurring issues with parts and equipment. a management responsibility.Ensure all safety practices are followed is the power supply to thatBefore beginning equipment repairs, ensure equipment has been turned off. Provide the necessary guards and safety failure can save costs of lost hatches. Hatchers are emptied and refilled in a short time frame leaving little time available to enable essentialfor servicing and repair. Have extra hatchers repairs to be carried out when necessary. inventory of parts in theKeep a stock of spare parts. Maintain an accurate maintenance of each piece of equipment. Keep accurate records of repairsof records accurate Keep equipment. of piece each of maintenance can be used to adjust theoutside of routine servicing. This information if necessary.routine servicing and maintenance schedule at least twice a year onPerform a thorough inspection and cleaning on single stage incubators.multistage incubators and after each transfer equipmentof event the in ready equipment and parts replacement Having Follow the manufacturers’ directions for routine servicing and maintenance.Follow the manufacturers’ frame fortime should provide a schedule and The manufacturer

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ As hatcheries become larger and more automated, the need for preventative maintenance becomes crucial. Equipment can be a source of problems and variability when not functioning properly. General Maintenance Maintenance COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 53 MAINTENANCE adjusting the sensor. sensor. the adjusting before errors mechanical any are there if determine and records maintenance check calibration, of out is sensor the If sensor. the with probe the comparing before stabilize to readings the Allow step). hatching or incubation same the in while machine the on location same the at probes the with calibrate (i.e. conditions similar under done be should calibration Each possible. as sensors the to close as probes calibration the Place hatch. or incubation an of ending or and not at beginning the operating while equipment Calibrate of calibration. the COhumidity, impact temperature, (ie. devices can monitoring key for frequent more but minimum fluff chick and at basis annual an on sensors all dust calibrate to best is It reliability. a sensors humidity, temperatures, high to Exposure Calibrations ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ motors, etc.toensure thattherewillbenodelayswith achievinghumaneandtimely euthanasiaforcullchicks. The hatchery’spreventative maintenanceprogramshould includeaweeklyreviewof alleuthanasiaequipment.Additionally, themaintenancedepartment shouldhaveamplespareparts,

The sensor can then be adjusted to zero if needed. needed. if zero to adjusted be then can sensor The space. air same the into vented connectors hose the all leaving but sensor, the from tubes the removing by done be can zero to sensor the Calibrating equipment. special require will range a to full sensor a pressure Calibrating certified. been have that higher) and ppm (5,000 concentrations high in available mixtures tube gas prepared using done be can and dioxide carbon of concentrations several against using the ambient concentrations. However, the should sensors be checked meter dioxide a carbon against checked be can sensors dioxide Carbon sensor. humidity the calibrate to used be can A hygrometer checks. of frequency the increase calibrations, between occur variations If days. 90 every minimum at calibrated be should incubators Multi-stage setting. each on calibrated be should incubators stage Single °C). (0.05 Celsius in a degree of 5 to hundredths or (0.1 °F) Fahrenheit in a degree of tenth the to accurate is that probes temperature calibrate to a thermometer Use 2 and ventilation sensors). Use calibration probes and keep records records keep and probes calibration Use sensors). ventilation and Animal WelfareTips maintenance of fans, calibration of air volumes and maintenance of filters will be be will filters of maintenance and volumes air of calibration fans, of maintenance regular hatchery, the through moving and clean air the keep to order In handling air and Ventilation required. For a properly operating air handling system: handling air operating aproperly For required. ✓ ✓ ✓

contamination issues. issues. contamination from air leak prevent to regularly may fans Clean backwards. housing air blow also can and the sides the in offset are that Fans correctly. housing the inside positioned are fans that Check replaced. be should and airflow correct the deliver not will blades fan Bent speeds. fan check and calibrate to used be can tachometers and Stroboscopes filters. air clogged as issues similar cause can correctly operating not are that Fans plan. maintenance apreventative in included be should sensors and bearings belts, Fan coils. the of clogging in result and accumulate may which dust or down chick any remove to basis a regular on coils conditioning air Clean hatchery. the for issues contamination creating microorganisms and dirt disseminate and collect can filters the dirty clean and to air meant are filters Air units. handling air as well as equipment on stress create and settings humidity and dioxide carbon temperature, disrupt can which flow air prevent can filters Clogged hatchery. in your dirt level and dust the on depending basis regular a on filters replace or Clean areas. between pressure differential the disrupt and reduce span life and their systems handling air on stress of amount significant a create can leaks Air seals. damaged and leaks air identify to used be can emitters Smoke room. each to pressure and volume air recommended 14.2 for section to Refer machines. individual and rooms to volumes air Calibrate COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 54 13 Productivity improvements Gentler handling of eggs to reduce breakage More precise vaccination of the chicks chicks of counting accurate More Less time between hatch and rearing farm Less fatigue for operators to create a better working environment Increased productionIncreased Improved quality errors human Minimize Standardization Flexibility Benefitsautomation of Labor reduction vaccination in-ovo Wash boxes, baskets and flats rangeA of conveyors, elevators and carousels are available to increase speeds of grading, sexing, subcutaneous vaccination operations other and with components. manual Candle and transfer eggs days at 18 Perform Separate chicks from shell debris chicks Count chicks box and vaccinate Spray Stack and unstack boxes, baskets and flats Available equipment Available Grade and pack eggs before incubating t should not contribute to cross contamination between eggs or handling equipment should not contribute to cross contaminationbetween chicks. easily, quickly and effectively. Egg and chick e labor-intensive operations in hatcheries. As many of the labor-intensive operations opportunities may exist for automating hatchery size and increased cost of labor, considerable Because of increasing chicks million two per employee one or automation, without norm the is drivers) including (not year per chicks million one per employee one of level staffing a guide, broad a per year with automation. it can be disinfecteduse. When selecting equipment, ensure that only very large hatcheries can justify its is precision made and very expensive and Much of this equipment Hatchery Automation Hatchery HATCHERY AUTOMATION HATCHERY COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 55 HATCHERY DESIGN room surfaces,equipmentandincubatorsmustbedesignedtoallowsimple,regulareffectivecleaningsterilization. also can incubators the in growth embryonic maintain promote growthofbacteriaandmolds.Topreventreducemicroorganisms,theoutersurfaceseggsmust befreefromcontaminationandall to provided conditions The operation. hatchery cost-effective for essential is design Good Hatchery Design Black arrowsindicatetheflow ofproductthroughthehatchery.Redarrowsindicateexhaust ofairfromaspecificroom. ← Chick ProcessingRoom Chick Holding Chick Dispatch +0.00 -0.02 Take-off -0.025 -0.015 Room Chick to ← ↓ ↑ +0.005 to+0.010 Hatcher Room Hatchers and ↓ ← ↑ Transfer -0.010 -0.005 Room to ↓ Incubator Room ↑ +0.015 +0.02 to ← ↑ ↓ Holding +0.01 +0.00 Egg to 14 COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 56 HATCHERY DESIGN HATCHERY themachine’s own control systems. This is particularly important with hatchers where component failure can lead to the complete loss of chicks very rapidly. ensure that To emergency power can be immediately provided when needed, the generator should be tested once every 7 days, underload, for a minimumof 30minutes. All generator use (routine and emergency) should be recorded in log. a In addition to the generators and alarms, the hatchery should have written protocolsrelated toemergency preparation for natural disasters that cancellations, order transportation, disrupt water, may and power loss of equipment failures, etc. All drains need to be trapped, particularly in hatching and take-off areas, to prevent blockages of eggshell and debris. The entire drainage system must be designed to handle large quantities of wash water and solid matter. Floors should be sloped quantities large to of movement and cleaning facilitate type drains of Trough promote water flow to the drains. of organic material. All drains in chick areas, processing areas and holding areas) should (hatcher have a cover to allow for water hallways, take-off flow but to prevent any loose chicks from being trapped basin.drain in the drain or All incubators should have secondary alarm systems to indicate high or low temperatures independent of either the main electricity supply or

✓ ✓ ✓ Animal Welfare Tips Building Structure Building condensation from forming on the inside walls. inside the on forming from condensation fail. Alarm systems should indicate power or systems failure, and alert hatcherypersonnel tothe problem so that it can be rapidly located and corrected. Wall surfaces should have minimal jointsand fastenings that impede effective cleaning. Outside walls should be well insulated to prevent air moves from clean to dirty areas and never thereverse, e.g., from cleaned systems be to need Ventilation dispatch. chick to egg storage periodically. In this context, the polytheneover steel-based systems air that are difficult duct to clean. offers many advantages Allhatcheries must have an automatic standby generator to provide sufficientpower to operatethe hatchery should themain power supply for cleaning. High ceilings will allow air to be moved away from chicks and alleviate drafts. Ceilings can harbor dirt and dust and therefore should be constructed of material that is easy to clean. Cleanand dirty areas must be separated to prevent cross-contamination by fluff that can be carried around the hatchery inclothes air and on equipment. currents, The ventilation on system muststaff ensure that specific recommendations regarding but hatchery leveling the of room each and in drains thicknessthe to sloped be must floors The of floor.the not to the extent thatcan impact the turning angles in the incubators. Likewise be aware that trolleys may roll and fall on sloped floors. Ceilings should be high enough that the tops of equipment are accessible A good floor finish isthroughout necessary the hatchery.for regular A cleaning good cementincorporating floor andharda stone disinfectionaggregate finish or topped with self-levelinga can be obtainedepoxy withwhich has certain a advantages over the more traditional finishes. If re-finishing your hatchery floors, consult your incubator supplier for any

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ General hatchery infrastructure 14.1 promise chick safety and welfare. Corrective actionsAlarm records should be evaluated by hatchery management and maintenance staff to help identify reoccurring issues that can com vely.related to equipment maintenance, ventilation, staff training, etc. can all positively impact hatchability if addressed proacti COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 57 HATCHERY DESIGN of microorganisms entering, growing and surviving in the environment. of microorganismsentering,growingandsurvivingintheenvironment. overall transport network. Microorganisms can significantly impact hatchability and chick quality. However, good hatchery design and management can reduce the number Hatchery location is ine Hygienic design Microorganisms requirethesetosurvive. Repair leakstokeep organicmaterialandwatercontained. ✓ ✓ ✓

for easyandaccessiblecleaning. impervious. Equipmentshouldbebuiltusinghygienicmaterialsand designed a suitablehabitatformicroorganisms.Ensureallsurfacesarehardand Holes andcrackscancollectorganicmaterialmoisture,whichprovides can dryquicklyafteruse. quickly as possible. Hang up mops, brushes, and other cleaning tools so they Prevent highlevelsofhumidityandafteranareahasbeenwashed,dryitas Seal cracks or holes into which water can seep. Repair all water leaks quickly. floors. the on water standing preventing by possible as dry as areas all Keep Microorganisms (bacteria,mold,mildew)thriveinwetandhumidconditions. to exhaust and flow air remove moistureandpreventmoldgrowth enough have should Rooms cleaning. facilitate surfaces shouldbesmooth,imperviousandhard.Roundedcornersgreatly minimize anyclutterandonlykeepessentialequipmentineachroom.All source to survive. To facilitate cleaning and prevent dirt and dust build-up, Microorganisms needorganicmaterial(eggs,debris,anddirt)asanutrient vitably a compromise between the disease risks of a populated poultry area, the transport costs of eggs and chicks, the availability of labor, and the vitably a compromise between the disease risks of a populated poultry area, the transport costs of eggs and chicks, the availability of labor, and the on thefloors by preventingstanding water Keep allareasasdrypossible ✓ ✓ ✓

clean sideofhatchery. positive pressure from clean to dirty. The air intake should be located on the be completely separated. The air flow should be filtered (4 microns) and have with cleanandendingdirty.Eggchickworkequipmentshould starting system one-way a be should hatchery the of design flow work The cleaning costs,andreduceairquality. and maintenance increasing filters air block microorganisms, carry can Dust great dealofdustwhichcanenterthehatcherythroughventilationsystems. can attractwildormigratingbirds.Businessesandoperationsproducea should notbeclosetoanynaturalwatersources(ie.ponds,lakes,etc)which Location ofthehatcherycanhaveabigimpactonbiosecurity.The possible contaminationofeggsorchicks. species (otherpoultry,wildbirds,petetc.)topreventdiseaseriskand clothing andshoes.Prohibitpersonnelfromhavingcontactwithanyavian Personnel can cross-contaminate areas by carrying microorganisms on their sources orfactories thatproducealotofdust. The hatchery should not be located near open water COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 58 HATCHERY DESIGN HATCHERY can be a result of the air handlingcan be a result of the can occur if the system isn’t properlycan occur if the system can lead to issues with ventilation. Calibrate can leave air filters clogged leading to Incorrect calibration of sensors on a regular basis astemperature, pressure, and humidity sensors recommended by the manufacturer. Inadequate fresh air supply to the room for the air and / or having too many incubators system being too small handling system. cooling capacity Inadequate heating and thesupply to small too is system the if occur also can issue This maintained. demands of the incubators. No preventative maintenance air quality, and poor ventilation.malfunctioning air handling systems, poor assuch issues ventilation address also should maintenance Preventative leaking door seals and fans not working properly.

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Common ventilation issues Common Animal Welfare Tips Hatchery Ventilation Configurations Ventilation Hatchery conditions and provide hygienic solutions (see section 14.3). (see section 14.3).conditions and provide hygienic solutions usually cost prohibitive. Humidifying systems should use water filters and be disinfected regularly. pressure. Thecan be used to create and control There are several designs that supply air from an air handling unitideal system uses a variable speed fan to efficientenergy most the are systems of types These system. air return a with be used to control atmosphericas supplied air is recycled. Plenums can also The delivery of fresh air should be through several points in the ceiling. ThisThe delivery of fresh air should be through the room. will minimize temperature differentials around humidity. Steam systems areMost hatcheries use a spray system to provide The type (chilled water, freon, evaporative cooling) and size of air handling unitThe type (chilled water, freon, evaporative temperature the and handled air of volume total the on based be should used range required. The rooms of the hatchery should be as air tight as possible. A well-sealed roomwell-sealed A possible. as tight air as be should hatchery the of rooms The will facilitate control over the air flow around the equipment. Cracks in seals,gaps between walls, and poor insulation will disrupt the flow of air and make difficult to maintain and regulate.temperature and humidity

baskets in these locations to prevent chicks getting wet and chilled. ion drips from equipment or the ceiling, avoid placing chickVentilation equipment must be designed and set-up to avoid blowing air or water directly on chicks. If there are any condensat ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ room include: ✓ Ventilation configurations Ventilation including, factors several on depend will room each for configurations ventilation The thein chicks or eggs of number the requirements, manufacturer’s incubator the points for each pressure controlling system. Some general room and the type of 14.2 COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 59 * Roomsforvaccine preparationandvaccination shouldhavepositivepressure againstthechickholding room Chick HoldingRooms Clean Equipment Egg StorageArea Incubator Room Transfer Room Hatcher Room Chick Take-off Egg Receiving Wash Room Hallways Room Areas (cfm/1000 eggs)(m 0.5 minuteairexchangetoroom 0.5 minuteairexchangetoroom 5 minuteairexchangetoroom 1 minuteairexchangetoroom 10 to17 1 5 to8 40 2 Ventilation Rate 1.69 3 67.6 /hr/ 1000eggs) 17.0 to28.7 8.5 to13.5 3.38 Hatchery VentilationConfigurations 72 to75 72 to75 72 to75 72 to75 76 to80 76 to80 76 to80 59 to66 66 to70

°F 75 Temperature

22 to24 22 to24 22 to24 22 to24 24 to27 24 to27 24 to27 15 to19 19 to21 24 °C Relative Humidity Not Applicable Not Applicable 65 to70 65 to70 65 to70 55 to62 55 to62 55 to62 60 to65 60 to65 (%) Area PressureinRelationtoAtmosphere (-0.147 to-0.245) (-0.147 to-0.245) Neutral to+0.01 Neutral to+0.01 Columns ofH -0.015 to-0.025 -0.015 to-0.025 (-0.147 to-0.98) +0.005 to+0.01 +0.015 to+0.02 (0.049 to0.098) (0.147 to0.196) -0.005 to-0.01 (0 to0.098) (0 to0.098) (Pascals) Positive Neutral Neutral 2 O HATCHERY DESIGN COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 60 HATCHERY DESIGN HATCHERY and which is recommended which is recommended from the plenum to the exterior of the building, from the plenum to the reference point. called the atmospheric or incubator room. When this isfrom the plenum to the respective hatcher be set as negative as the room isdone, the pressure for the plenum must atmosphere. positive to allow the plenum to be neutral to

✓ ✓ A pressure sensor (magnahelic) gauge should be installed alongside each electronicalongside installed be should gauge sensor (magnahelic) A pressure purposes. pressure control unit for comparative reference Pressure sensors to mount the pressure sensing unit and tubes:There are two options more than 25 feet (7.7 meters) fromThe sensor reference tubes should never cover The sensor reference tube should onlythe plenum to the outside of the building. the tube is increased or collected into abe used for one sensor unless the size of referencepressure The outside. the to hatchery the throughout running pipe PVC the wind from interfering with thetube should be installed in a way that will prevent pressure measurements. tubes must be established byThe correct location of these sensor reference the hatcher or incubators. However, themonitoring and recording the operation of hatcher or incubator room as well as toplenum itself needs to be sealed from the pressurethe Place room. pressurized the from reading false a prevent to outside monitoring. controllers at eye height for easy reading and Incubator and Hatcher Exhaust Plenum Configurations Plenum Exhaust and Hatcher Incubator A gutter on the backs of the hatchers with a mounting bracket for verticalA gutter on the backs of the hatchers with oftops the clean easily to crew sanitation the allow will This panels. plenum pitch toward one end withthe hatchers. The gutter needs to have a slight drain plugs placed as needed. Waterproof strip lights mounted horizontally for maximum lighting. Waterproof strip lights mounted horizontally in the plenum to allowA variable speed fan located as high as possible chick down to settle on the floor and as far away as possible from hatcher exhausts. cleaning. A drain in each plenum (if possible) to facilitate A sloped roof at an angle of approximately 45º from the top of the machinesthe of top the from 45º approximately of angle an at roof sloped A clean up. to the wall for ease of Doors with good seals (air tight).

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ the effects of outside wind. All pressure control fans must be fitted with a good back draft shutter. If the fan is installed on a chimney there must be a back draft shutter fitted at the base of the chimney to eliminate the chimney effect from altering the ability of the fan to control fan is installed on the wall,accurately control the pressure. If the pressure need to be installed to minimizea back draft shutter and wind protection hood Pressure control fans The correct configuration plenum includes: The use of a plenum gives flexibility to hatchery design because hatchers do not have to exhaust to exterior walls. Plenumsconditions alsothat providecan morecause controlthe over exhaust atmosphericto malfunction on hatchers and incubators. Furthermore, the amount of ductwork is reduced which reduces difficult leaking into hatcher doors and exhausted to the atmosphere.f chick fluff contamination the plenum can improve the control o improves hygiene. Finally, cleaning and 14.3 COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 61 HATCHERY DESIGN volume of air required should be obtained from the the from obtained be should required air of volume the machines, stage single for variability, large the of Because machine. of type the to recommended volume air the by machines of number total the multiply the in atmosphere to (0.00) pressure aneutral maintain to required m³/min) cfm; capacity; (fan rate ventilation the determine to general, In intake. air fresh the from away atmosphere the to exhausted be must air The machines. the from removal heat facilitate to incubators the of area surface The plenum exhaust Incubator incubator plenum should be above the machines and cover the entire top A diagram of the hatcher room with exhaust plenum showing the direction of air flow (black arrows). arrows). (black flow air of direction the showing plenum exhaust with room hatcher the of A diagram Hood Protection Wind ⭨ Shutter Draft Back ⭨ incubator Fan Speed Variable incubator manufacturer. Air Exhasuted Plenum Hatcher 45° chamber, Roof to the atmosphere. If an exhaust from a machine falls directly in front of the the of front in directly falls amachine from exhaust an If atmosphere. the to hatcherThe plenum plenum exhaust Hatcher required should be obtained from the hatcher manufacturer. hatcher the from obtained be should required air of volume the machines, stage single for variability, large the of Because machine. of type the to recommended volume air the by plenum one into exhausting hatchers of number the multiply negative slightly or atmosphere to pressure (0.00) a neutral at maintained always is plenum the ensure to needed m³/min) cfm; capacity; (fan rate ventilation the To determine intake. fresh supply air any from away and atmosphere to exhausted be must air The floor. the toward down turned be should machine the from exhaust the fan exhaust Hatcher must be behind the machines at floor level and exhaust exhaust and level floor at machines the behind be must HVAC Supply Air Incoming COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 62

HATCHERY SANITATION HATCHERY Along with the 15 These can include infected include can These The amount and sources of contamination. contamination. of sources and amount The eggs, chick fluff, air, water, people (both workers and visitors), rodents assuch fomites other and equipment insects, birds, wild mice), and (rats boxes, trays and buggies. The chemicals and equipment used for each cleaning and sanitation task. sanitation and cleaning each for used equipment and chemicals The whichinto factor will cost and availability commercial regulations, Local forinstructions manufacturer’s the follow Always used. be will chemicals for questions onmanufacturer chemical the chemical usage. Contact application and usage. farms. The hatchery may be receiving eggs from multiple contaminants carried on thateggs, the hatchery will be exposed to any farm’s egg flats, buggies, vehicles, and personnel. This means that one to eggs and chicks from afarm can be a potential source of infection different farm. The hygiene status of the farm and number of floor eggs delivered can all significantly impact the hatchery.

✓ ✓ ✓ A larger volume of production hatchery (more farms, more people, more eggs, etc.). A larger volumehatchery (more farms, more people, more hygieneand biosecurity on stress the increase also can production of dictate the cleaning andcontrol programs. The volume may also lota leave not may volume production heavy a as schedule disinfecting of open time for cleaning equipment. The production volume of the hatchery. contamination entering thewill mean a larger volume of sources of

For any sanitation program consider: main source of microorganisms is eggs that and yeasts). The main source of microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, and fungi (molds to contamination with microorganisms The hatchery is susceptible microorganisms provide warm and moist conditions for many hatchers are also a high risk area as they from the farm. The incubators and are brought into the hatchery system can help reduce chicks. A validation and monitoring are required to produce high quality thrive. A regular cleaning and disinfection schedule to survive, grow, and designed to address sanitation and disinfection program All hatcheries should have a carefully planned and keep microorganisms under control. the risk of contamination high risk areas within the hatchery. ✓ Hatchery Sanitation Hatchery COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 63 HATCHERY SANITATION clothing. should They follow policies the as same hygiene and personnel. biosecurity their for coverings clean with provided be should Visitors stations. these at available be should disinfectant as, water, well as and Soap employees. for handwashing frequent Providefacilities. handwashing areas throughout and the encourage hatchery changing / or and showering include should design a hatchery Ideally, hatchery. the entering to prior skin exposed of areas all wash should Employees hatchery. the inside for only is that clothing wear to employees requiring include should program hygiene to limiting the movement of people throughout the and hatchery. A biosecurity important very be will example by leading as restrictions movement follow strictly must Controlling movement of can people be the within challenging. hatchery Managers visitors and Personnel 15.1 newly hatched chicks. newly hatchedchicks. All staffandvisitors shouldberequiredtonotifymanagement ofanyaviancontact priortoenteringthehatcheryminimize biosecurityrisksand topreventpotentialdiseasetransmission ✓ ✓ ✓

required to change clothes and wash any areas of exposed skin. skin. exposed of areas any wash and clothes change to required be should areas these between moving personnel any necessary, If areas. egg or incubator any enter not should areas sorting or holding chick area, hatching the in working personnel Likewise, area. hatcher the enter not should etc) incubators, (storage, eggs with areas in working Personnel by coding and uniforms sector a color different isfor visitors chick recommended. the finally and hatchers, then room. Movement back through these areas should be prohibited. Color incubators, the to moving room, egg the in starting direction one in be should hatchery the through movement Any visitors. for book alog maintain and Use Movement ThroughtheHatchery Animal WelfareTips Restrictions for movement through the hatchery include for movement through hatchery the Restrictions ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

of doorways. of doorways. thresholds the at available be should stations sanitizing shoe or dips Foot showering and changing facility. remaining The entrances should be locked. the through passes and to leads which entrance open one only Use outside. standing from buggies or cartons in eggs prevent to worker hatchery the with even is that apace at unloaded be should Eggs hatchery. the enter not should eggs delivering Drivers movement. limit help to areas between communicate to used and available be should intercoms or Telephones COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 64 HATCHERY SANITATION HATCHERY √√ √√ ×× ×× Using mesh to prevent wild birds from roosting inside the roof is a good biosecurity exhaustthe if debris and dirt with caked become can mesh the However, measure. is located underneath the roof. Use drains and gutters to prevent accumulation of water and dirt on the roof.Use drains and gutters to prevent accumulation contaminate the hatchery through theAccumulation of organic material can cracks in the roof. Exhaust air fromventilation intake but also by seeping in through andplants fungi, of growth to conducive be will which warm very be may hatchery the exhaust air will provide aon the roof mixed with warm standing water bacteria. Any of organisms.habitat that is very conducive to the growth When water systems are used for humidifying or evaporative cooling, the waterWhen water systems are used for humidifying to prevent microorganismsshould be treated with chemicals such as chlorine water circulating systems arefrom being aerosolized. Cleaning and disinfecting Clean to remove. difficult very are and form can biofilms and scale as important on a regular basis.and sanitize or change filters for these systems should exhaust in a way that minimizes the contamination of fresh intakeshould exhaust in a way that minimizes the prevailing wind and the intakeair. If possible, the air should exhaust with The system should have aof fresh air should be upwind from the exhaust. good filtration system where filters are cleaned and sanitized or changed on a regularly scheduled basis. hatchery should be ventilated separately and include the egg processing and processing egg the include and separately ventilated be should hatchery systems hatchers, and chick rooms. The ventilation storage area, incubation, area is not exhaust in such a way that the intake for one of these areas should another.close to the exhaust of on the sides of the hatchery,Systems that exhaust outside to one wall Ventilation through units should follow a biosecure movement Fresh air from air handling Create the egg areas, to hatcher, to chick rooms). the hatchery (i.e from pressure differentials between rooms to createdirection and prevent air an airflowfrom flowing backward. If possible, each area of the in a biosecure COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 65 HATCHERY SANITATION this washer is located can also be used as a location to clean moveable equipment. this washerislocatedcanalsobe usedasalocationtocleanmoveableequipment. where room The washers. basket and tray fixed automated use hatcheries Many Moveable equipment the floordrainstopreventsplashing andrecontaminationofcleanedareas. lot of water or dirt collects on the floor, remove it by pushing it with a brush towards the back of the area to the front moving carefully from one side to the other side. If a Washing should be done systematically, starting from the top downwards and from procedures. High pressure spraying will facilitate the washing of hard to reach areas. or higherisrequiredforthelightingsystemtowithstandhigh pressurewashing covered with plastic sheetsandtape. An International ProtectionCode (IP) ofIP65 Electrical equipmentincludingcontrolpanelsandswitchesshould bewaterproofor removal. all wet cleaning steps which will helpliquify fats and other organic material for easier for °F) 140 °C, (60 water warm Use efficacy. chemical with interfere negatively may that material inorganic or organic of free and consumption, animal for fit be must pressure washingtobreakdownorganicsoilage,greaseandfats.Thewaterquality Wet cleaning involves thorough cleansing using water, detergents, and high- Wet cleaning and electricalequipmentwhichcannotberemoved(e.g.motors,switches). to thefansandairinlets,lightsystem,beams(especiallyincorners),heatingsystem and otherlargepiecesoforganicresidue.Whiledrycleaning,payspecialattention eggshells fluff, chick with areas other and hatchers, incubators, outside and inside Dry cleaning(i.e.brushing,scraping,vacuumcleaning,etc.)shouldbeperformed Dismantle allmovableequipmentandcollecttheminaspecificreaforcleaning. downwards tominimizepossiblere-contaminationofpreviouslycleanedareas. All cleaningoperationsshouldbeginwiththeuppermostsurfacesandproceed Dry cleaning 15.2 Cleaning andDisinfection Cleaned and sanitized equipment and materials should be placed in a separate Cleaned and sanitized equipment and materials should be placed in a separate aerosolizing system. system. aerosolizing can bedoneusingan Sanitizing offixedequipment debris. and fluff chick control before movingthemwillhelp wetting dirtyhatcherbaskets can be vacuumed out and and debris.Thehatcher fluffchick of amount large a hatchers usually accumulate prior tocleaning.The eggshell shouldberemoved in the Any largepiecesofdebris place protocolsareused. is necessary when clean-in- drain a to slopes that floor remove organic material.A require hand cleaning to place protocolsandusually it maybemorechallengingtoclean.Thesepiecesofequipmentwillneedclean-in- as equipment fixed for necessary are schedules disinfecting and cleaning Regular Fixed equipment above thefloorwithsufficientdryingspace. equipment mayrequiresoakingtoloosendirt,butallofthemshouldbestaged storage location. The washroom should be considered a dirty area. Some of the incubator s such as s such as COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 66 - HATCHERY SANITATION HATCHERY Low Low Low Low Cost High High High High High 5. availability5. 6. cost service7. by supplier microorganisms target 8. Low Low Low Low Low Poor Poor Poor Good Surfactant ability Low Low Low Low High High High Variable Variable 1. efficacy1. 2. safety 3. residues 4. ease of application Corrosiveness Thechoice of disinfectant will depend upon several fac tors including Low Low Low Low High High High High Toxicity Medium Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Anti-spore Not effective Poor Good Good Good Good Good Good Variable Variable Anti-viral Poor Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Variable Anti-fungal Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Anti-bacterial Relevant characteristics of chemical disinfectants and their effectiveness disinfectantsmicroorganisms their characteristicsagainst and chemical Relevant of Ozone Iodine Based Formaldehyde Chemical Type Chlorine Based Phenolic Based Glutaraldehyde Hydrogen Peroxide Peracetic Acid based used, unused or spilled chemicals are disposed of properly. Keep accurate records including MSDS sheets andused, unused or spilled chemicals are disposed on usage and monitoring can be enforced by government legislationchemical purchases and usage. Constraints or customer codes of practice. Ensure that the hatchery staff is aware and follow their guidelines carefully. product data sheets from the manufacturers disinfectants used. Obtain of the correct storage, handling, and mixing requirements thesafety legislation. It is the responsibility of by various codes of practices and Safety aspects are covered of the ensure that all workers understand and followfamiliarize himself with these matters and hatchery manager to abide and legislation local your Know essential. is disinfectants of use correct the in staff of training Specific them. anyEnsure monitoring. and safety of terms in practice of codes and requirements legal national and local with Disinfectants are useful for maintaining the sanitary status of a surface, but will not work unless that surface will not work unless status of a surface, but the sanitary are useful for maintaining Disinfectants in Disinfectants must be used strictly are readily inactivated by organic materials. is clean. Some disinfectants and are compatible and some are toxic manufacturer’s instructions. Not all disinfectants accordance with the care. must be handled with Disinfectants Quaternary Ammonium COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 67 HATCHERY SANITATION Hygiene Monitoring Program Monitoring Hygiene ✓ ✓ ✓

supervisors. Install ownership of hygienestandards and routines to respective areas and time forbiocidalactivity. surfactants and detergents to sit on surfaces. Disinfectants will also require to removeorganicmaterialpriorwashing.Includetimeforanyfoaming cleaned anddisinfected.Someareasmayrequiremoretimethanothers Design a schedule with time frames that allow areas to be thoroughly with the comply and use to procedures. be trained should staff the and schedules Written proceduresmustbeavailableforallcleaningprotocolsand *Total counts viable Production Area Production Area Production Area Production Area Dipslides Hatchery Audit(External) Water Culls All hatchers An exampleAn of hygiene ahatchery monitoring and validation program Vehicle Transfer Take-off Take-off All areas All areas Vaccinator - Internal Area Internal box Hatcher baskets Macerator Conveyors All areas All areas Water tank All flocks 10 internalswabspooled Item tobesampled ✓

Use thisevaluationtofindthemosteffectivehatcherysanitizer. effectiveness. chemical or application cleaning and procedures address any areaswhichmay be contributing to issueswith microorganisms and Identify fluff. chick of status microbiological the evaluating or samples air its effectiveness.Thiscanbedonebyswabbingdesignatedsurfaces,taking microbiological monitoringprocedures(agar plates andswabs) to measure The performanceoftheprogramshouldbecheckedregularlyusingstandard Monthly Monthly Monthly Monthly Weekly Biannually Monthly Biweekly Monthly Frequency Salmonella Salmonella Salmonella Salmonella TVC /Molds TVC/ Molds/ TVC Salmonella Salmonella Type ofTest * Salmonella COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 68 HATCHERY SANITATION HATCHERY should be in place to contain any infectious materials. Procedures shouldProcedures materials. infectious any contain to place in be should of infectious andinclude methods for containment and decontamination potentially infectious materials. Pest control bait stations should be strictly followed. Rodent A rigid pest control program basis. A replenished, and emptied on a regular and traps should be checked, Physicalproblems. insect prevent to used be can treatment fumigation regular preventto netting and seals door including place into put be should barriers wild bird roosts. Access entry onto the property andSecurity measures should be used to prevent and any others locked. Useinto the building(s). Keep only one door unlocked handwashingHave daily. them clean and empty and doorway each at foot-dips room. Give non-essential visitorsstations and hand sanitizers available in each limited or basic access to areas in the hatchery. Restrict Movement that work with chicks separated.Keep those that work with eggs and those from contact chick with areas or areas dirty in work that personnel Prevent can help restrict personnelaccessing clean areas. Using color coded uniforms movement. High Risk Procedure a standard operating procedureIn the event of a high risk biosecurity issue, Biosecurity

a strict biosecurity program. Some can be accomplished with a strict biosecurity program. contamination. Preventing contamination should be designed to prevent and control A sanitation program in a biosecurity program include:critical control points 15.3 and disinfection area prior to entry of the hatchery property. Any contractorAny property. hatchery the of entry to prior area disinfection and prior to entering the facility orequipment should be cleaned and disinfected left outside the facility. Contractors to determine biosecurity risks.Use a questionnaire to screen any visitors recentand contact poultry pets, avian contact, farm about questions Include andwashing as well as clothing protective require and Provide illnesses. should go through a washingdisinfection of exposed skin areas. Vehicles Hatchery policy should prohibit employees from owning avian pets or poultry prohibit employees from owning avian pets Hatchery policy should Salmonella, transmission. Some illnesses including due to the risk of disease employees humans to avian hosts. For this reason, can be transmitted from hygiene andnotify a supervisor when ill. Personal should immediately andsanitation good a of part important an also are policies clothing protective biosecurity program. People COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 69 RECORDS The mainpurposesoftherecordsinclude Records system toimproveefficiencyandreducehumanerrorassociatedwithdatainput. of efficiency to keep and store records in electronic sheets and databases. Automated equipment such as through the hatchery. Finally, records can be used to make and verify policy decisions. Most records and data are flow stored in chick electronic form. and It is egg more control cost-effective in and terms monitor to efforts traceability for used be also can Records decisions. management weekly and daily in assist to records keep Hatcheries ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Accounting of finances and for administration purposes (costs for (costs Investigating andtroubleshootingissueswithhatcheryperformance purposes administration for consumables, labor,overhead,indirectcosts) and finances of Accounting Providing evidenceintheeventofissuesorproblems hatcheries Providing recordstocustomers may requirethemaspartofauditing measure flockandmachineperformances Collecting andstoringdatathatprovidesastandardagainst whichto Complying withlocallegislationandregulatoryagencies receiving todelivery Accurately locatingthemovementandtransferofeggschicksfrom : Record sheetsandelectronicrecordsshouldbe: ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Secure Searchable Have referencesorbaselinevaluestocomparewithobtaineddata Able tobereviewedcheckforaccuracy Easy tocomplete,understandandinterpret incubator s and hatchers can be integrated with a record keeping s and hatchers can be integrated with a record keeping 16 COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 70 RECORDS operation Incubator Egg receiving and storage operation Hatcher logs equipment infrastructure building and of Maintenance Sanitation Chick processing Some examples of record sheets in the hatchery include:

✓ Animal Welfare Tips databases. databases. should be used to support, confirm and create action plans. Be sure to check with local regulations about keeping specific records and which are required. Individual machines can be accurately logged using computerized equipment. In many cases, these logs can be integrated with other record results. Positive results can provide information about optimizing protocols while negative information can guide changes in protocols. Review flock records after each hatch to identify problemallow areas. corrective This actionto be taken will at an early stage.typicalA embryo diagnosis report will supply some of the needed information for evaluating thehatchery. Additional data and records of key performance indicators Analysis of records is an essential part of monitoring the hatchery's performance. This and projected results entails and identifying issues that may have impacted measuring performance. Evaluate and analyze differences both positive and negative performance between actual

ernal quality audits, employee welfare training records, etc.)Records related to welfare outcomes (euthanasia log, chick injury log, maintenance records for generator and alarm system, int al standards or company guidelines. should be reviewed regularly during hatchery welfare audits. Records should be completed and maintained in accordance with loc ✓ ✓ ✓ Key points of record keeping Key points ✓ COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 71 EMBRYO DIAGNOSIS A routine quality control program should collect data at multiple time points and may include: Aroutinequalitycontrolprogramshouldcollectdataatmultipletimepointsandmayinclude: Embryo Diagnosis which couldtranslatetocostsavings. residue can provide valuable information. In this way, the data can be communicated to the hatchery staff or farm personnel to make corrective actions in a timely manner identifying the cause can be challenging when data is not available to analyze. Conducting breakouts at several points during the incubation period and examining hatch hatches can be attributed to multiple causes including temperature abuse, rough handling, male fertility, female nutrition and incubation issues. However, accurately When troubleshootinginthehatcheryanaccurateaccountofwherelossisoccurringnecessarysothatactioncanbetaken to reducelossfromfuturehatches.Failed ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

between incubatorandfarmissues. Break outs of clears during candling– clear eggs can be used to differentiate diagnose issueswithfertilityorhandlingandstorageissues. Break outsofearlyincubation–at3to5daysincubation,can alsohelp temperature abuseorroughhandling. issues andindicatefarmproblemssuchasmalefertility,female nutrition, Fresh eggbreakouts(unincubated)–theseeggscangiveevidence offertility of cracked,upside-down,dirtyandmisshapeneggs. quality of eggs sent to the hatchery. Records include farm specific frequency Egg intake quality records - diagnose farm related issues associated with the ✓ ✓ ✓

incubators and hatchers. incubators andhatchers. Records include any mechanical failures and maintenance records of the Equipment performance - real time and historic record of equipment. notify amemberofmanagementifthisissuearises. to trained be should staff – take-off at chicks of baskets abnormal / Poor additional informationfordiagnosticsattake-off. due todecomposition death and contamination.Conductingbreakoutsatseveraltimepoints cangive of cause to diagnose difficult be can it but determined be can issues incubation term late point, this at flock – per take-off baskets at hatcher 6 to 3 of examination residue and outs Break 17 COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 72 EMBRYO DIAGNOSIS EMBRYO Has hatchability recently declined or had ongoing poor performance? Has hatchability recently declined or had Has hatchability been affected at any given time in the flock cycle? (young, middle age or older flocks). long has it persisted? Is the issue consistent or variable and how Has chick quality been affected?

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Key questions to ask include: is more than one hatchery in an operation, those responsible for the breakoutsthe for responsible those operation, an in hatchery one than more is is standardized to ensure the breakout procedure should periodically meet among the different locations. gaining hatchery, the in issues or hatches problem correct and diagnosis To management’s regarding the problem can help focus as much information an efficient and effective response. time and attention for It is important that the person performing the breakout be trained properly. This be trained properly. the breakout that the person performing It is important thereIf consistency. maintain to time the all breakouts the perform should person Animal Welfare Tips Changes to personnel and / or management Ventilation Chick quality of the flock. data) Embryo diagnosis (10 day and 21 day breakout Egg quality and storage that may have impacted the Dramatic weather or seasonal changes operational environment log Incubator and hatcher operation and maintenance Performance history/data capture – what is the normal performance is the normal performance Performance history/data capture – what

over the hatch of the fertile eggs received. Hatch of fertile identifies where the answers the question where to look for problems. opportunities lie and be selected. Anembryo diagnosis, a well-lit area should Before beginning an off tops the taking for instrument an gloves, rubber worksheet, diagnosis embryo and a bucket for the waste will be needed. the eggs, a candling light, An embryo diagnosis worksheet should be used when conducting a breakout. should be used when diagnosis worksheet An embryo Hatchability, detailed when recording the information. Always be accurate and calculations infertile should always be calculated (refer to fertility, and hatch of controlno has hatchery the because used be should fertile Hatch of 3). section have control coming into the hatchery, but it does over the fertility of eggs ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ , pips and live embryos that may be involved in the breakoutThe hatchery should have a written protocol that includes the approved method(s) of euthanasia and disposal for unhatched eggs analysis. Live embryos should be euthanized before being placed in a bucket or waste disposal container. Key focal points to investigate include: Key focal points to investigate COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 73 EMBRYO DIAGNOSIS 4. 3. 2. 1. loss: embryonic identify to categories four uses Cobb 17.1 Some general guidelines of breakout analysis to determine mortality embryonic

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ties, and transfer cracks. ties, andtransfercracks. This includesinternalandexternalpipped,malposition,deformi ‘Late dead’(15to21daysofincubation) flocks normal in days 14 8 and between deaths embryonic few very be should There incubation) of (8 14 to days death ‘Mid-term’ incubation) of (1 7days to dead’ ‘Early eggs Infertile  H OHQJWK 8 )HDWKHUWUDFWVVHHQ ' F *XWLVGUDZQLQWRWKHDEGRPLQDO ' V ZLWKDZKLWHULQJRUGRXJKQXW %ODVWRGHUPLVXQLIRUPO\URXQG ' DYLW\ $< SSHUDQGORZHUEHDNHTXDOLQ $< KDSH $< Size of the embryo and obvious changes in embryonic development are good indicators to use for determining embryonic age at time of mortality. of time at age embryonic determining for use to indicators good are development embryonic in changes obvious and embryo the of Size technique. training effective avery be can appendices) (see chart adevelopmental to analysis abreakout in embryos Comparing not still is development embryonic inspection. If for acontainer into albumen. poured the be can of yolk the some off apparent, pour or egg the rotate gently yolk, the of top on appear not does blastodisc or blastoderm the If infertile. torupturing the yolk in be can the cause lost the embryo yolk and difficult locate. to the If yolk ruptures, willit alsoearly difficult between because be and dead to discern acontainer over egg an open crack not Do located. be often most will embryo the where is this since end large the peel eggs, open breaking When visualization. easy for egg the of end large the into embryo the of movement promote will which out break to prior up end large the with sit to eggs Allow Recording EmbryoDiagnosisData     0RXWKRSHQLQJDSSHDU (PEU\RVWDUWVWRORRNELUGOLNH '$< FRYHUPXFKRIWKH\RONVXUIDFH ([WUDHPEU\RQLFPHPEUDQHV '$< $OEXPHQLVQHDUO\JRQ 'RZQFRPSOHWHO\FRYHUWKHERG\ ' $< V H &+Ζ&.(0%5<2'(9(/230(17 7RHQDLOVDSSHDU (JJWRRWKSURPLQHQW ' VWDJH &RPPRQO\FDOOHGWKHEORRGULQJ F +HDUWEHJLQQLQJWREHDWDQGEORRG ' +HDGLVEHWZHHQOHJV 5HGXFHGDPRXQWRIDPQLRWLFIOXLG ' LUFXODWHV $< $< $<  D (\HSLJPHQWDWLRQEHFRPHV ' +HDGLVXQGHUULJKWZLQ

Remove all unhatched eggs and place them in trays with the large end up. Record the number of culls and dead chicks. Breakout the eggs and record the results in a datasheet. Dispose of eggshells and egg waste after break-out data is recorded. Select at least four trays from different locations within the incubatorthat will betracked for residuebreakout and besure toinclude the top, middle, and bottom. This will give a wider sample in the incubator environment (temperature, humidity, air flow) and a betterrepresentation of the laying house. Never select consecutive trays. In eggs incubated for 21-days, infertile eggs will usually have a brighter yolk and thicker albumen than a fertile yolk. Theinfertile yolk will usually be in the center of the egg and fertile yolks tend to sink to the pointed end.

2. 3. 4. 5. Embryo procedure diagnosis 1. ✓ ✓ Embryo after days diagnosis incubation of 21 Remove the clears andearly dead embryos from the basket and place them in a separate tray with the large end up. Breakout the eggs and record the results in a datasheet. andbottom. This will give widera sample in the incubator environment (temperature, humidity, air flow) and a better representationhouse. Never select consecutive trays.of the laying Clearly mark the trays that were candled to indicate to the transfer crew that the eggs have been candled and need to be marked on the hatcher baskets so that theresidue can be saved for day a 21 breakout. Select at least four trays from different locations willwithinbe tracked for residue thebreakout and be sure incubatortoinclude the top, middle, that the extra-embryonic membranes that develop after the incubation first should still be present. two days of It is important to note any eggs that were incubated upside down or had cracks.Communicating these numbers tothe farm team can help toreduce waste and costs. be accurate but need a lot of training to gain reliable data. Breaking out clears days at 10 can make troubleshooting more precise as distinguishing between early dead and infertile at transfer or later can be complicated by decomposition, exposure to heat, and bacterial contamination. daysAt 8 to 10 of incubation, early embryonic mortality is apparent as A candle breakout is a good tool to provide accurate fertility data. If you have typea of incubator that does not lend itself toconducting candlea breakout, a complete residue breakout can stillbe performed. Residue breakouts can

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 3. 4. 2. Embryo diagnosis procedure after 10 daysEmbryo incubation of after procedure diagnosis 10 1. Embryo breakout) days incubation of after (candling diagnosis 10 COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 75 EMBRYO DIAGNOSIS been associated with increased 7-day chick mortality. been associatedwithincreased7-daychickmortality. the hatchingchickssincehatcheswithahighpercentageofcontaminatedeggshave as anaerosolthatcanbedistributedacrosstheincubator.Thishasimpacton shell pores.Whenaneggexplodes,itreleasesitscontentsandbacteriaintotheair start appearingaroundday18ofincubationwhencontentsmayoozeoutthe with microorganismsthatcanexplodeduringtheincubationprocess.Theseeggs Rots, exploders,bangersorbombsarealltermsusedtodescribeeggscontaminated general, olderflocksgeneratemorecontaminatedeggsthanyoungflocks. allowing themovementofcontaminatingorganismsthroughshellpores.In transport tothehatcherymayleadcondensationofmoistureoneggsurface, collection tables.Impropercoolingandwarmingofeggsduringonfarmstorage and belts nests, dirty cracks, hairline of detection poor eggs, floor of use the include origin. On-farm management decisions that may lead to hatching egg contamination Above averagehatchingeggcontamination(>0.5%)isoftentraceabletothefarmof 17.2 5. 4. 3. 2. 1. marker duringthetransferprocess: In ordertoensureallcontaminatedeggsarecountedasimpleprotocolcanbefollowedusinganindexcardandpermanent

farm team. farm team. The hatcheryresiduebreakout data sheetcontainingtheaccuratenumberofcontaminatedeggs isthensharedwith of contaminatedeggsfoundduringthebreakoutsessionand totalisenteredonthebreakoutsheet. The teammemberperformingbreakoutanalysisaddsthenumber onthecardinsidehatcherbaskettonumber from thetoptrayofrack13andeggsareflock20512.Atotal8rotswasremovedthisattransfer. inside the hatcher basket with the remaining fertile eggs. In the photos (right), the card indicates that these eggs are The teammemberremovingthebasketwritesnumberofcontaminated eggsonanindexcardandplacesthe the exitoftransfertable(wherehatcherbasketsareremoved). The teammemberloadingthetransfermachinecommunicates thenumberofeggsremovedtoteammemberat contaminated eggs. For thosetraysmarkedforresidueanalysis,theteammember loading thetransfermachinecountsandremoves Tracking ContaminatedEggs predetermined trays of eggs after the hatch is complete. Unfortunately, a portion of predetermined trays of eggs after the hatch is complete. Unfortunately, a portion of Most hatcheries track contamination by performing hatchery residue breakout on in the breakout analysis and the breakout data is inaccurate and underestimated. in thebreakoutanalysisanddataisinaccurateunderestimated. Therefore, eggs removed prior to loading into the transfer machine are not counted selected so that the clear eggs remain with the tray and are analyzed for fertility. machine. Trayspredeterminedforresidueanalysisusuallyhavethe“NoPick”option machine willremovethevisiblycontaminatedeggsbeforeplacinginto transfer process. In many cases, the team member loading the eggs into the transfer the contaminated eggs are missed because they are removed at the beginning of the COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 76 APPENDICES Chick Guide Grading Formulas Calculations and Embryo Development Chart Hatching Egg Grading Guide Diagnosis of Hatching Issues Hatching of Diagnosis Appendices Measurements and Conversions and Measurements Common Causes Embryonic of Common Death COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 77 APPENDICES weight range shape, withinacceptable Clean, freeofcracks,correct IDEAL EGG THIN SHELL TOE PUNCHED YOLK STAINED CALCIUM DEPOSIT Eggs withdefects (describedwithredtext)should bediscardedandneverincubated MEMBRANE HATCHING EGGGRADINGGUIDE WRINKLED BLOOD STAINED HAIRLINE CRACK ROUND CRACKED ELONGATED SLAB SIDED DIRTY STAINED DOUBLE YOLK SMALL COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 78 APPENDICES DAY 6 Appearance of beak Voluntary movements begin DAY 13 Appearance of scales on legs Body covered lightly with feathers DAY 20 Entire yolk sac drawn into body Embryo considered chick (drawing air from air cell) Internal and external pips begin DAY 5 Appearance of leg and wing joints DAY 19 Yolk sac draws into body cavity Amniotic fluid is gone Embryo occupies most space inside the egg (not in air cell) DAY 12 Toes fully formed First few visible feathers DAY 18 Growth of embryo nearly complete Yolk sac remains outside embryo Head is under right wing DAY 4 Eye pigmentation becomes apparent DAY 11 Comb serrated Tail feathers apparent DAY 17 Reduced amount of amniotic fluid Head is between legs DAY 3 blood Heart beginning to beat and circulates ring Commonly called the "blood stage" DAY 10 Egg tooth prominent Toe nails appear CHICK EMBRYO DEVELOPMENT EMBRYO CHICK DAY 16 Down completely cover the body Albumen is nearly gone Mouth opening appears DAY 9 Embryo starts to look bird-like DAY 2 Extra-embryonic membranes cover much of the yolk surface DAY 1 Blastoderm is uniformly round with a white ring or doughnut shape DAY 15 Gut is drawn into the abdominal cavity Upper and lower beak equal in Upper and lower beak equal in length DAY 8 Feather tracts seen

Embryo turns head towards large Embryo turns head towards large end of the egg DAY 14 DAY 7 Comb growth begins Egg tooth begins to appear Blastodisc appears as a small Blastodisc appears as a small white area with irregular edges INFERTILE No development COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 79 APPENDICES (Embryonic deathfrom2.5to4days) Blood Rings (Embryonicdeathfrom0–7daysofincubation) Causes ofEarlyDead (eggs clear–nobloodrings,embryonicdevelopment) Causes ofInfertile (Embryonicdeathfrom15–21days ofincubation) Late Deads (Embryonic deathfrom8–14daysofincubation) Mid TermDeaths COMMON CAUSES OF EMBRYONIC DEATH EMBRYONIC OF CAUSES COMMON Leg orjointinfections Excessive beaktreatmentofmales Wet littercausingfootproblems Disease Inadequate feedandwaterspaceallowanceortoowarm/cold Too manyortoofewmales Males sterileorpoorlyselected(flockmayhavepoorfleshing,shrunkenwattlesandcombs) Improper fumigation Prolonged eggstorage Incorrect washing,dippingor‘buffing’ofeggs Excess vibrationand/orjarringduringtransport High temperaturesduringearlyincubation Embryonic deathatthebloodringstagecanbecausedbysameissuesasearlydeadbutalsoinclude: Rough egghandling Poor Ventilation Feed contamination–drugs,toxins Broodiness leadingtoembryodevelopment Prolonged orimpropereggstorage Faulty turninginincubator Nutritional causes–lackofvitaminE Disease- Newcastle,IB,Adenovirus,Salmonella High numberofflooreggs,crackedeggsorcontaminated Incorrect fumigation,washingordippingofeggs Incorrect incubationtemperatureorhumidity Chilling oroverheatinghatchingeggs Poor sexualsynchronization Seasonal effect(declineinfertilitylatesummerandfall) Insufficient weightgain Excessive weightgainorloss Eggs incubatedupside down Nutrition –vitamin deficiencies Disease –Mycoplasmosis Prolonged storageandageofeggs Faulty turninginincubators Lack ofventilationinthehatchery/incubators Humidity levels Incorrect incubator/hatchertemperatures Excess vibrationand/orjarringduring transportorgradingofeggs Disease Incorrect humidityinincubators Improper nutritionoftheflock Contamination Incorrect turningofeggs Poor ventilation Incubator temperaturetoohigh/low(mostlikelyhigh) COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 80 APPENDICES emperature (16 – 21 days) and nutritional causes emperature (16 – 21 days) and nutritional mooth hatching baskets/no paper/improper temperature mooth hatching baskets/no paper/improper Not enough moisture loss Low temperatures or humidity - 1 to 19 days Low temperatures or Egg storage Large eggs Low hatcher temperature - 20 to 21 days Temperature too high Egg storage basket Broken eggs in the hatch Inadequate turning Eggs incubated upside down Odd shaped eggs Inadequate turning High temperatures - 1 to 19 days High humidity - 20 to 21 days Egg storage Insufficient moisture loss Crossed beak: Hereditary or virus infection week in incubator) or handling Missing eyes: High temperatures (first Wry neck: Nutrition Crooked toes: T Splayed legs: S High temperature - 1 to 19 days High temperature Small eggs DIAGNOSIS OF HATCHING ISSUES Abnormal chick Incorrect pipping Sticky chicks Malpositions Unhealed navels Red Hocks Hatching early Hatching late COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 81 APPENDICES The legsareinthetrussedposition. with thebeakpointedtowardsaircell. to therightandtuckedunderwing Correct hatchingposition . Headtwisted HATCHING POSITIONS POSITIONS HATCHING Head betweenthighs Malposition 1 Head toleft Malposition 3 Head insmallendofegg Malposition 2 Head awayfromaircell Malposition 4 COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 82 APPENDICES hocks on navelon Damaged hocks Mechanical injury Dark grey or black Large long or string ×× ×× ×× ×× or black or open navel Poor feathering Severe abrasion Majority dark grey ×× ×× ×× ×× - navel Bloodied beak sion on hocks on sion Large button on Small greySmall spot Open cut or abra CHICK GRADING GUIDE GRADING CHICK √√ ×× ×× ×× and legsand no abrasionno Cross beak or Light grey feathers above chick down) Slight blushing but anatomical defects

(string does not protrude

√√

Healed navel with string small √√ ×× COLORING DEFECTS √√ Perfect Chick Perfect Hocks Well healedWell navel

√√ √√

NAVELS HOCKS Cobb Chick Grading Guide is available online under Resources > Posters COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 83 APPENDICES 1 mile =1.609 km 1 mile m =0.9144 1 yd cm =30.48 1 ft cm =2.54 1 in m=0.6215 =1000 1 km miles ft =3.2808 =1.09361 m=100 yd cm =10 in 1 cm =0.3937 mm in =0.0394 1 mm distance and Length 1 yd 1 ft 1 in 1 m 1 cm Area 1 lb = 0.4536 kg =453.5924 g kg =0.4536 1 lb g 1 oz =28.35 =1.016 lb =2000 =1016.05 ton ton kg 1 short =907.185 ton =0.9072 lb =2240 ton 1 long kg =1.1023 (USA) tons (British) tons short long =0.9842 kg =1000 1 ton lb =2.2046 1 kg oz = 0.0353 lb 1 g=0.002205 Weight and mass 2 2 2 2 = 0.0929 m =0.0929 =6.4516 cm =1.196 yd 2 = 0.8363 m =0.8363 =0.155 in 2 2 =10.7639 ft 2 2 2 2 MEASUREMENTS ANDCONVERSIONS 1 ft candle =10 lux candle 1 ft =1.8 BTU/lb 1 kcal/kg kcal/m 1 =4.184 kcal MJ 1000 =3.97 BTU 1 kcal Energy Flow rate Flow 1 m/sec = 196.85 ft/min =196.85 1 m/sec 1 m 1 ft 1 m 3 3 3 /lb/h = 0.0624 m =0.0624 /lb/h /h = 0.5886 cfm =0.5886 /h =16.016 ft /kg/h 3 =0.1123 BTU/ft 3 3 /kg/h /lb/h 3 To calculate Fahrenheit from Celsius (X°C × 9/5) +32 =X°F ×9/5) (X°C Celsius from Fahrenheit To calculate =X°C −32) ×5/9 (X°F Fahrenheit from Celsius To calculate Temperature 1 gal (USA) =3.7853 liter (USA) 1 gal liter =4.54596 (Imp) 1 gal liter =0.9463 (USA) 1 qt =1.1365 (Imp) 1 qt liter liter =0.4732 (USA) 1 pt liter =0.5682 (Imp) 1 pt gal =0.2624 US gal Imp =0.22 1 liter Volume COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 84 APPENDICES : X 100 = Percentage of fertile eggs X 100 = Percentage percentage of fertile eggs percentage of fertile Number of fertile eggs Number of fertile eggs Number of eggs incubated Formula 2 Formula To calculate X 100 = percentage X 100 of egg moisture days loss at 19 : FORMULAS : : X 100 = Percentage of hatchability X 100 = Percentage X 18.5 = percentage X 18.5 of egg moisture loss days at 18.5 X 100 = Percentage of hatch of fertile percentage of egg moisture loss at 18.5 days of incubation: percentage of egg moisture loss days at 19 of incubation percentage of hatch of fertile percentage of hatch

percentage of hatchability (Moisture days) loss at 19 (19) Formula 5 calculateTo To calculateTo (full incubator tray weight at incubationfull - incubator tray weight at transfer ) (full tray weight at incubation - empty tray weight) Percent hatchability Percent fertility Formula 4 Formula 3 To calculate Formula 1 Formula To calculate Number of chicks hatched Number of eggs incubated COBB HATCHERY MANAGEMENT GUIDE 85 APPENDICES Number of chicks hatched in the same basket at take-off at basket same the in hatched chicks of Number take-off 12 before hatched hours chicks of Number To calculate 6 Formula Average EggWeight Average chickweight To calculate Formula 9 (Chicks inchickboxweight-Emptyweight) To calculate Formula 8 (Full trayweightatincubation-Emptyweight) To calculate Formula 7 Number ofchicks Number ofeggs percentage of chicks hatched 12 hours before take-off: take-off: before 12 hours hatched chicks of percentage average percentageofchickyield average chickweight: average eggweight: X100=Averagepercentage ofchickyield : =Averageeggweight X 100 = percentage of chicks hatched 12 hours before take-off 12 before hatched hours chicks of X100 =percentage =Averagechickweight FORMULAS (CONT.) www.cobb-vantress.com L-015-01-20 EN