Semi-intensive poultry housing system is a form of chicken raising that comprises of keeping chickens in partially closed or enclosed places which allow limited air circulation and natural light. The approach maintains an equilibrium in the welfare of animals and successful production while being midway across expansive and vigorous approaches.
Under this semi-intensive system as a whole chickens enjoy accessibility to a combined outside areas to exercising along with access to nutritious foods such as invertebrates and vegetation, and they also get limited indoor areas for resting and hatching eggs. The outside space is frequently secured by fence to protect from predation and adverse conditions.
This Semi-intensive poultry housing systems, layouts are designed so as to allow for natural air circulation, nonetheless the enclosures for the parts used for the semi-intensive system are constructed with air circulation and a certain degree of weather-proofing in consideration. Timber, bamboo, and steel are among the few kinds of e building supplies which can be utilized to construct these structures.
Considering the birds that live in this structure get exposure to outdoor sunlight and clean air, that may improve their overall well-being and overall health, it provides more favorable conditions that benefits the chicks compared to the vigorous approach. Since the poultry tend to be more dynamic and enjoy greater accessibility to nutritious food sources, semi-intensive methods have been additionally known for having superior food ratios.
Despite retaining efficient output, the semi-intensive method may offer an extra caring and sustainable technique for rearing poultry. However, this demands more space and monitoring compared to the demanding
How to manage birds in the semi-intensive poultry housing system
In an effort to enhance the well-being, welfare, and efficiency of the chickens kept in the semi-intensive poultry farming system, a variety of methods are employed in the management of them. Important methods of management in the semi-intensive system comprise those that follow:
- living management: The home ought to have ventilation adequately conditioned and designed to provide shelter from severe weather. To prevent the spread of diseases, it ought to be regularly cleansed and sterilized.
- The feeding management: Poultry ought to be served a nutritious diet which is nutrient-balanced and customized to meet their individual requirements. This may constitute an assortment of manufactured feed and feed from natural sources such as plants and insects.
- Water management: Fresh, uncontaminated water ought to be continually readily available to chicks. The sources of water have to be periodically purified and disinfected in order to prevent the
- Health management: To detect and treat diseases promptly, regular medical examinations ought to be conducted. To prevent outbreaks of diseases, immunizations and biosecurity precautions need to be implemented effectively.
- Predator and pest management: Measures should be taken to minimize the amount of pests and predators that endanger the well-being of the chicks. This might involve making use of nets that are used for fencing, and traps.
- Population density management: Strictly managing the total number of chicks per area unit is essential to avoid excessive population growth, that may result in illnesses, stress, and reduced efficiency.
- Environmental management: the external environment should be properly regulated in order to provide the birds the appropriate proportion of shelter, shade, and nutritious supplies.
In general, keeping a healthy equilibrium of efficient supervision and the well-being of animals is a prerequisite to profitable bird handling in the semi-intensive poultry housing system.
Let look at the advantages of this housing system
The semi-intensive poultry housing system offers several advantages for poultry farmers compared to other housing systems. Here are some of the key advantages of the semi-intensive poultry housing system:
- Cost-effectiveness: The semi-intensive system is often more affordable to set up and maintain compared to intensive systems. It requires less investment in infrastructure, equipment, and labor, making it an attractive option for small to medium-scale poultry farmers.
- Enhanced bird welfare: The semi-intensive system allows birds to have more space and freedom of movement compared to intensive systems. This promotes better bird welfare as birds can exhibit natural behaviors such as walking, running, and perching. It provides a better environment for the overall health and well-being of the birds.
- Reduced disease transmission: By providing more space and ventilation, the semi-intensive system reduces the risk of disease transmission among birds. It allows for better airflow and reduces humidity, which can help prevent the spread of pathogens. Additionally, the reduced stocking density minimizes stress on the birds, making them more resistant to diseases.
- Improved meat and egg quality: Birds raised in a semi-intensive system tend to have better meat and egg quality. The increased activity and access to outdoor areas contribute to stronger muscles, resulting in leaner and healthier meat. Similarly, outdoor access can enhance the nutritional profile of eggs, including increased levels of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D.
- Natural foraging and diet supplementation: In a semi-intensive system, birds have the opportunity to engage in natural foraging behavior. They can search for insects, worms, seeds, and other natural food sources, which not only provides enrichment but also supplements their diet. This can contribute to healthier and more flavorful meat and eggs.
- Environmental sustainability: The semi-intensive system promotes a more sustainable approach to poultry farming. By allowing birds access to outdoor areas, it reduces the environmental impact associated with intensive systems. Birds can graze on pasture, which helps maintain vegetation, control pests, and improve soil fertility. The system also minimizes the need for artificial lighting and ventilation, reducing energy consumption.
- Consumer preference: There is an increasing consumer demand for poultry products that are produced in more humane and sustainable ways. The semi-intensive system aligns with these preferences, allowing farmers to market their products as free-range or pasture-raised, appealing to consumers seeking higher welfare and environmentally friendly options.
- Regulatory compliance: In some regions, there are regulations and standards in place that promote the use of more extensive housing systems for poultry. The semi-intensive system helps farmers comply with these regulations and meet the required welfare and environmental standards.
While the semi-intensive poultry housing system offers several advantages, it’s important to note that it also has some considerations and challenges. These include the need for adequate land space, predator control measures, and careful management of outdoor areas to prevent environmental contamination. Farmers should carefully evaluate their specific circumstances and market demands before choosing the most suitable housing system for their poultry operations.