Hatchery Management and Chick Production

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from hatchery management and chick production, including factors affecting hatchability, egg handling, incubation, and transportation.

Hatchability

The ability of eggs to produce healthy chicks; decreases with prolonged storage.

Physiological Zero

The temperature at which embryo development does not advance, set below 24°C.

Egg Handling

The process of collecting and treating eggs to ensure their quality before incubation.

Albumen Degradation

Deterioration of the egg white that occurs with extended storage.

Egg Collection

The process of gathering eggs from nests and floors at least 4 times a day.

Chalazae

The twisted membranes in an egg that help to hold the yolk centered.

Dirty Eggs

Eggs that are contaminated, leading to reduced hatchability and higher risk of disease.

Cracked Eggs

Eggs with physical damage that negatively impact hatchability.

Double-Yolk Eggs

Eggs containing two yolks, which are rejected due to zero hatchability.

Upside-Down Eggs

Eggs placed incorrectly that can reduce hatchability.

V-Shaped Temperature Profile

Ideal temperature profile for storing eggs from laying to incubation.

Moisture Loss

The reduction of moisture from eggs during incubation that affects hatchability.

Embryo Shock

Stress experienced by embryos if eggs are not pre-warmed properly.

Incubation Time

Duration required for eggs to hatch; prolonged storage increases this time.

Hatch Window

The period during which chicks begin to hatch, with implications for chick quality.

Turning Eggs

The process of rotating eggs to prevent embryos from sticking to membranes.

In-Ovo Vaccinations

Vaccinations administered to embryos inside eggs to enhance immunity.

Temperature Calibration

The process of adjusting temperature settings in incubators to ensure accurate readings.

Chick Transport

Moving chicks from hatchery to delivery while maintaining optimal conditions.

Culling

The process of separating inferior quality chicks from those of high quality.

Hatcher Baskets

Containers used to transfer eggs from incubators for hatching.

Ventilation Rate

The amount of air required per chick to ensure proper oxygen supply.

Condensation Risk

The potential for moisture to accumulate on egg shells, increasing contamination risk.

Egg Condition

Physical state of eggs that influences hatchability and chick quality.

Temperature Control

Management of heat levels in the incubator for optimal embryo development.

Handling Procedures

Protocols to follow during the treatment of eggs and chicks to reduce stress and damage.

Flock Age Impact

The influence of the age of laying birds on egg quality and hatchability.

Egg Size Variation

Differences in egg size that can affect chick weight after hatching.

Debris Separation

The process of removing dirt and detritus from chicks post-hatching.

Vehicle Hygiene

Cleaning and disinfecting transport vehicles to reduce disease risk.

Chick Quality

Overall health and viability of chicks after hatching.

Infectious Risks

Potential health hazards that can affect the integrity of eggs and chicks.