EFFECT OF SEASON AND CLIMATIC FACTORS ON MORTALITY AND REMEDIAL MEASURES ON SURVIVAL OF RURAL POULTRY FLOCKS

Abstract

The four rural poultry flocks were reared up-to age of 10-12th weeks during the year 2017 in district Attock (Pakistan). Mortality pattern in relation/comparison to the temperature and percent humidity was recorded. The vitamin supplements, immune boosters, preventive vaccination and prophylactic medications were given with respect to age of flock. The highest mortality was observed in the flock B at 11th week of age, followed by flock A at 1st week of age, followed by flock C at 8th week of age. The increased mortality during month of June was due to heat stress, the mortality during months of January was due to cold stress, while mortality during the month of August was due to excessive heat and high humid environment. The cold environment caused chilling of the chicks and required extra care while brooding during winter season. The hot and humid environment predisposed the chicks towards coccidiosis and the required stirring of litter and medication against coccidiosis. It was observed that the rural poultry birds being very hardy and resilient to harsh environmental settings may not sustain extremes of seasonal & climatic factors and require extra care and management during peak/extreme seasons.