Effect of stocking densities and perches on broiler performance

C P. Seet and M. D. Azizah

Abstract

The performance of broilers on wire floor with or without wooden perches at different stocking densities viz. 0.07.0.09. and 0.11 m² per bird was studied . The results indicated that birds reared in the widest space (0.11 m² /bird), with or without perches, were significantly better in growth traits like body weight and body weight gain. The feed intake and feed: gain were however more inferior than those reared in the least space (0.07 m²/bird. Providing perches (P) for the latter density group showed some improvements in all the growth traits over the non-perch (NP) birds except for the 0.09 and 0. 11 m²/ bird floor space groups which resulted in higher feed intake and poorer feed: gain. The mortality rate was 9% less than the NP whereas the incidence of leg weakness was higher. The differences were . however. not statistically significant.

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