The Deep-Litter System

Abstract

Some form of intensive management is necessary if maximum results are to be obtained from commercial egg-producing units, because intensification makes it easier both to maintain suitable conditions for the birds and to reduce labour hours by the full exploitation of labour-saving equipment. Admittedly, extensive range systems are a useful means of distributing manure and probably permit the maintenance of a healthier flock, but they are more exposed to thieves and vermin and are relatively more costly in the time required for egg collection, feeding and supervision. In all systems of poultry management, personal supervision is essential, and this is more easily achieved under intensive conditions. Even when the size of the unit does not justify the employment of a trained supervisor, it is better to keep lots of 50 to 500 birds on an intensive system and to design the lay-out so that future' expansion can be undertaken easily.