(a) State seven reasons for good housing in poultry management. (b) Describe briefly nine essential features of a poultry deep litter house

(a) Seven reasons for good housing in poultry management

1. To protect the birds from harsh weather (rain, sun, cold and wind).
2. To protect the birds from predators and thieves.
3. To provide comfort and reduce stress, promoting good growth and egg production.
4. To make feeding, watering and general management easy.
5. To control and prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
6. To provide clean, laying nests and so keep eggs clean and reduce breakage.
7. To make it easy to collect eggs, droppings and to isolate sick birds.

(b) Nine essential features of a poultry deep litter house

1. Concrete floor: smooth, easy to clean and covered with litter material such as wood shavings.
2. Litter material: a deep layer of dry litter (wood shavings, sawdust or straw) spread on the floor.
3. Adequate ventilation: wire-mesh sides and openings to allow free flow of air.
4. Good roofing: leak-proof roof that keeps out rain and provides shade.
5. Correct orientation and spacing: sited to allow light and air, with enough floor space per bird.
6. Feeders and drinkers: adequate feeding troughs and waterers provided.
7. Laying nests: clean nesting boxes provided for laying birds.
8. Perches/roosts: provided for the birds to rest.
9. Wire-mesh/half walls and rat guards: to keep out predators and vermin, plus a foot dip at the entrance for biosecurity.