(a) Six activities that could be carried out in the brooding of chicks are:
- Providing a warm and comfortable brooding environment: Chicks need to be kept warm during the brooding period, so a heat source such as a brooder or heat lamp is required.
- Providing clean water and feed: Chicks need access to clean water and a nutritionally balanced feed to support their growth and development.
- Monitoring chick behavior: Chicks should be monitored regularly for signs of illness, injury, or distress.
- Providing adequate space: Chicks should have enough space to move around, exercise, and explore their environment.
- Adjusting temperature as needed: The temperature in the brooder should be adjusted according to the age and behavior of the chicks.
- Maintaining good hygiene: The brooding area should be kept clean and dry to prevent the spread of disease.
(b)
i. Deworming: This is a management practice in poultry production that involves administering medication to birds to rid them of internal parasites such as worms. Parasites can cause poor growth, reduced egg production, and even death in birds.
ii. Culling: Culling involves the removal of birds from the flock that are not performing well, are diseased or injured, or have genetic defects. This practice is important for maintaining the health and productivity of the flock.
iii. Debeaking: This involves the trimming of the beaks of birds to reduce pecking and cannibalism within the flock. This is done to prevent injuries and stress among the birds.
iv. Delousing: This is the process of removing lice and other external parasites from the birds. Parasites can cause skin irritation, anemia, and reduced egg production in birds.
(c) Four signs of ill health in poultry are:
- Abnormal droppings: Poultry with diarrhea or blood in their droppings may be suffering from an illness or infection.
- Reduced appetite: Birds that are not eating or drinking may be suffering from an illness or be in a stressful environment.
- Abnormal behavior: Poultry that are lethargic, unresponsive, or appear distressed may be experiencing health problems.
- Respiratory problems: Birds that are coughing, sneezing, or have difficulty breathing may have respiratory infections.
(d) The circulatory system of farm animals consists of the heart and blood vessels. The heart pumps blood through the blood vessels to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the body's tissues and organs. The blood vessels, including arteries, veins, and capillaries, are responsible for transporting the blood throughout the body. The arteries carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart, while the veins carry oxygen-poor blood back to the heart. The capillaries are tiny blood vessels that allow for the exchange of oxygen and nutrients between the blood and the body's tissues. The circulatory system plays a vital role in maintaining the health and well-being of farm animals by delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to the body's tissues and removing waste products.