Swine Health

Swine Management

Shielding Your Herd: Biosecurity Strategies to Combat ASF in Asia

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Written by: Administrator
Category: Swine Health
Read Time: 2 mins

African Swine Fever (ASF) continues to devastate swine farms across Asia, threatening livelihoods and pork supply chains. Highly contagious and often fatal, ASF has no vaccine or cure, making robust biosecurity the first and most effective line of defense.

Understanding the Threat

ASF spreads rapidly through direct contact, contaminated feed, equipment, or even human movement. With its resilience in various environments, a lapse in biosecurity can have catastrophic consequences. However, implementing strict measures can significantly reduce the risk.

Essential Biosecurity Practices

  1. Restrict Farm Access: Limit entry to essential personnel. Use disinfectant footbaths and provide clean protective clothing for anyone entering the farm.
  2. Control Animal Movement: Prevent contact between farm pigs and wild boars, which are major ASF carriers. Quarantine newly purchased pigs for at least 30 days before introducing them to the herd.
  3. Sanitize Thoroughly: Regularly clean and disinfect facilities, vehicles, and equipment.
  4. Monitor Feed Sources: Only use certified, ASF-free feed to avoid contamination.
  5. Implement Surveillance: Conduct routine health checks and report any signs of illness immediately.

The Takeaway

Strong biosecurity isn’t optional—it’s the backbone of ASF prevention. By maintaining strict protocols, farmers can protect their herds, preserve livelihoods, and contribute to the fight against this devastating disease.

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Bright Ideas: The Science of Lighting Programs for Laying Hens

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Written by: Administrator
Category: Swine Management
Read Time: 3 mins

Lighting plays a pivotal role in poultry farming, particularly in the management of laying hens. A well-designed lighting program can significantly influence egg production, hen health, and overall farm efficiency. Here’s a deep dive into why lighting is more than just a utility in your poultry house—it’s a productivity tool.

The Science Behind Poultry Lighting

Hens are photoperiod-sensitive, meaning their reproductive system responds to changes in day length. Their natural breeding cycle is tied to longer daylight hours, mimicking spring and summer. By manipulating artificial lighting, farmers can stimulate egg production year-round.

The primary hormone at play is melatonin, which regulates sleep-wake cycles and interacts with the pituitary gland to stimulate egg-laying hormones. Consistent, well-timed light exposure ensures optimal hormonal balance, resulting in steady egg production.

Lighting Schedules for Success

The ideal lighting program varies depending on the age and development stage of the hens:

  1. Brooding and Rearing Phase (0-18 weeks): Chicks need longer light periods, starting with 20-22 hours of light per day to encourage feeding and growth. Gradually reduce light duration to about 10-12 hours as they approach maturity.

  2. Laying Phase (18 weeks and onward): Transition to 14-16 hours of light daily to stimulate egg production. Maintain a consistent schedule, as abrupt changes in light duration or intensity can stress hens and reduce productivity.

Light Intensity and Color Matter

Not all light is created equal. For laying hens, the recommended intensity is 10-20 lux (a unit of illumination) during the laying phase. Lower intensities can lead to reduced activity and egg production, while excessively bright light may cause stress.

Light color (spectrum) also impacts hens. Warm white or red-toned lights promote calmness and better egg quality, while blue or green tones may enhance growth in the early stages. LED lighting systems, with adjustable intensity and spectrum, have become a popular choice for poultry farms.

Benefits of Optimized Lighting

A well-designed lighting program boosts egg yield, improves shell quality, and minimizes behavioral issues like feather pecking. Additionally, energy-efficient lighting systems reduce electricity costs, making it a sustainable investment for farmers.

Conclusion

Lighting programs are a cornerstone of successful poultry farming. By understanding and implementing tailored light schedules, farmers can ensure their flocks are healthier, happier, and more productive. Let the power of light illuminate your path to poultry excellence!

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