# Raising Meat Chickens: Broiler Production for Small Farms ## Key Takeaways - **Breed selection is critical and system-dependent:** Fast-growing breeds (e.g., Cornish Cross) achieve market weight in 6-8 weeks with lower feed conversion ratios (1.8-2.2:1) but require intensive management to mitigate leg and cardiovascular issues. Slow-growing breeds (e.g., Red Ranger) take 8-12 weeks, have higher feed conversion ratios (3.5-4.5:1), but exhibit better foraging ability and are more suited to pasture-based systems with improved meat texture and flavor. - **Housing systems dictate management intensity and bird performance:** Pasture-based systems using chicken tractors offer natural foraging and manure distribution but demand high daily labor for moves and are vulnerable to predators and weather. Confinement systems provide greater protection and allow for automation but necessitate rigorous litter management and can lead to increased respiratory issues if ventilation is inadequate. - **Nutritional requirements evolve with age, impacting feed conversion:** Broilers require complete feeds with higher protein (20-24%) for starters and lower protein (16-20%) for growers/finishers. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) is significantly influenced by environmental temperature, feed quality, disease, feeder space, and stocking density, with optimal FCR values ranging from 1.8-2.2:1 for fast-growing breeds in confinement to 3.5-4.5:1 for slow-growing breeds on pasture. - **Biosecurity and health management are paramount for disease prevention:** Implementing strict biosecurity measures such as restricting visitor access, using dedicated footwear, cleaning equipment, and controlling pest ingress is crucial. Common health challenges include respiratory infections, coccidiosis, bacterial infections, and leg problems, particularly in fast-growing breeds, necessitating consultation with a veterinarian for appropriate vaccination programs and treatment protocols. - **Processing and food safety require meticulous attention to hygiene and regulation:** Raw poultry can harbor pathogens like *Staphylococcus aureus* and *Helicobacter pylori*, underscoring the need for sanitary on-farm practices, clean processing facilities, and proper chilling to 40°F within four hours of slaughter to prevent carcass contamination and ensure food safety. - **Record keeping and performance monitoring are essential for continuous improvement:** Maintaining detailed records of chick arrival, mortality, feed consumption, medication, processing weights, and sales allows for the identification of trends in mortality rates (target <5%), feed conversion, and condemnation rates, informing future flock management decisions and system adjustments. --- Small-scale broiler production involves raising chickens for meat in flocks of 50 to 500 birds. This article covers breed selection, feeding programs, housing options including pasture and confinement systems, and processing considerations for farmers and homesteaders. The information applies to non-intensive production systems as described in the literature on backyard poultry [9]. Readers should consult local regulations and veterinary resources before starting operations. ## At a Glance | Factor | Pasture-Based System | Confinement System | Mixed System | |--------|---------------------|-------------------|--------------| | Typical breed | Slow-growing (e.g., Red Ranger, Freedom Ranger) | Fast-growing (e.g., Cornish Cross) | Moderate-growing hybrids | | Time to market weight | 8-12 weeks | 6-8 weeks | 7-10 weeks | | [Feed conversion ratio](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/feed-conversion-ratio-measuring-improving-poultry-efficiency) | Higher (3.5-4.5:1) | Lower (1.8-2.2:1) | Intermediate (2.5-3.5:1) | | Housing | Chicken tractors moved daily | Stationary coop with litter | Combination of pasture pens and shelter | | Labor requirement | High (daily moves) | Moderate (litter management) | High (system switching) | | Meat quality characteristics | Firmer texture, more flavor | Tender, mild flavor | Balanced traits | | Initial investment per bird | Moderate | Lower | Moderate to high | ## Breed Selection for Small-Scale Production ### Fast-Growing Breeds Fast-growing broiler breeds such as Cornish Cross reach market weight in 6 to 8 weeks. These birds have been selected for rapid growth and efficient feed conversion. The FAO provides general information on poultry production systems and breed characteristics [1]. Fast-growing breeds require careful management of feed intake and environmental conditions to prevent leg problems and cardiovascular issues. Mortality rates can increase if birds are not monitored closely during the final two weeks before processing. ### Slow-Growing Breeds Slow-growing breeds like Red Rangers, Freedom Rangers, and heritage crosses take 8 to 12 weeks to reach processing weight. Research on slow-growing chickens raised in free-range systems shows differences in growth performance and meat quality compared to confinement systems [12]. Another study examining growth rate, carcass traits, and meat quality of slow-growing chickens across three raising systems provides additional context for breed selection [13]. These breeds generally have better foraging ability and higher activity levels, making them suitable for pasture-based operations. ### Breed Selection Criteria Consider the following factors when selecting a breed for your operation: - Market demand in your area for specific meat characteristics - Available processing facilities and their scheduling requirements - Your ability to provide appropriate housing and feeding management - Local climate and seasonal temperature extremes - Feed costs and availability in your region ## Feeding Programs and Feed Conversion ### Nutritional Requirements Broiler chickens require complete feeds that meet their nutritional needs at each growth stage. Starter feeds contain higher protein levels (typically 20-24%) to support early muscle development. Grower and finisher feeds have lower protein levels (16-20%) with adjusted energy content. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides reference information on [poultry nutrition](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/poultry-nutrition-essentials-balancing-feed-for-optimal-health-and-growth) and feeding management [3]. Feed should be purchased from reputable mills that follow quality control procedures. ### Feed Conversion Ratio Management Feed conversion ratio (FCR) measures the pounds of feed required to produce one pound of live weight. Fast-growing breeds achieve lower FCR values under optimal conditions. Factors that increase FCR include: - Environmental temperature extremes outside the thermoneutral zone - Poor feed quality or contamination - Disease challenges that reduce feed intake - Inadequate feeder space causing competition - High stocking density that increases stress ### Pasture Forage Contribution Birds raised on pasture consume grass, insects, and seeds, which can reduce purchased feed requirements. The extent of forage contribution depends on pasture quality, stocking density, and bird age. Young birds consume less forage than older birds. Pasture management practices such as rotational grazing and maintaining 6-8 inch grass height optimize forage intake. Research on non-intensive production systems provides information on how pasture access affects broiler performance [9]. ## Housing Systems: Pasture vs. Confinement ### [Chicken Tractor](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/chicken-tractor-design-and-pasture-management-for-broilers) Systems Chicken tractors are portable pens that house birds on pasture. These structures are moved daily to provide fresh ground and distribute manure evenly. Typical dimensions for a chicken tractor are 10 feet by 12 feet for 50 to 75 birds. Benefits include: - Reduced manure buildup in one location - Natural foraging opportunities for birds - Lower initial investment compared to permanent structures - Improved bird health through access to sunlight and fresh air Limitations include daily labor requirements for moving, vulnerability to predators, and reduced protection from extreme weather. Chicken tractors work best on level ground with good drainage. ### Stationary Coop Systems Stationary coops with attached runs provide more protection from weather and predators. These systems require regular litter management to maintain bird health. Deep litter management involves adding fresh bedding material to absorb moisture and support microbial activity that breaks down manure. Stationary coops allow for automated feeding and watering systems that reduce labor. ### Confinement with Outdoor Access Mixed systems combine indoor shelter with outdoor access through pop holes or doors. Birds can choose between indoor and outdoor environments based on weather conditions. This approach requires careful management of both indoor litter and outdoor ground conditions to prevent mud and manure buildup. The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service provides information on poultry disease prevention that applies to all housing types [2]. ## Brooder Management for Day-Old Chicks ### Brooder Setup Day-old chicks require a brooder that maintains temperatures of 90-95°F at chick level during the first week. Temperature is reduced by 5°F each week until birds are fully feathered at 4-6 weeks. Heat sources include heat lamps, propane brooders, or radiant heaters. Brooder guards confine chicks near the heat source during the first 3-5 days. ### Brooder Management Practices - Provide 0.5 square feet per chick in the brooder for the first two weeks - Use clean pine shavings or rice hulls as bedding material - Place feeders and waterers within easy reach of chicks - Monitor chick behavior for signs of chilling or overheating - Clean and disinfect brooders between flocks ### Common Brooder Problems Chicks that huddle under the heat source indicate chilling. Chicks that pant or move away from the heat source indicate overheating. Mortality in the first week often results from poor brooder management instead of disease. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare that include brooder management guidance [5]. ## Health Management and Biosecurity ### Disease Prevention Biosecurity practices reduce the risk of disease introduction and spread. The USDA APHIS provides information on avian disease surveillance and control programs [2]. Key biosecurity measures include: - Restricting visitor access to poultry areas - Using dedicated footwear and clothing for bird contact - Cleaning and disinfecting equipment between flocks - Quarantining new birds for at least 30 days - Controlling wild bird and rodent access to feed and water ### Common Health Issues Broiler chickens face several health challenges that require monitoring: - Respiratory infections can spread rapidly in confined flocks - Coccidiosis causes diarrhea and reduced growth - Bacterial infections such as colibacillosis affect multiple organ systems - Parasitic infections including Raillietina cesticillus can reduce production [11] - Leg problems occur more frequently in fast-growing breeds ### Vaccination Programs Consult a veterinarian to develop a vaccination program appropriate for your region and production system. Common vaccines include those for Marek's disease, Newcastle disease, and infectious bronchitis. Vaccine administration methods include drinking water, spray, and injection. Record vaccine type, lot number, date, and route of administration for each flock. ## [Food Safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention) Considerations ### Pathogen Risks Raw poultry meat can carry pathogens that cause foodborne illness. Research has identified methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in poultry and poultry meat [6]. Another study found Helicobacter pylori strains isolated from raw poultry meat [10]. These findings emphasize the importance of proper handling and cooking of poultry products. ### On-Farm Food Safety Practices - Maintain clean water sources for birds - Prevent feed contamination with manure or rodents - Practice all-in/all-out flock management - Clean and disinfect facilities between flocks - Keep accurate records of treatments and withdrawals ### Processing Hygiene Processing facilities must maintain sanitary conditions to prevent carcass contamination. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare that include processing guidelines [5]. Key practices include: - Chilling carcasses to 40°F within four hours of slaughter - Preventing cross-contamination between clean and dirty areas - Using potable water for washing and chilling - Maintaining proper sanitation of equipment and surfaces ## Processing Options for Small Flocks ### On-Farm Processing On-farm processing allows farmers to control the entire production chain. This option requires equipment for slaughter, scalding, picking, and chilling. State regulations vary regarding on-farm processing and sale of poultry meat. Check with your state department of agriculture for specific requirements. ### Mobile Processing Units Mobile processing units travel to farms and provide professional processing services. These units typically handle 200-500 birds per day. Benefits include: - Professional-grade equipment and sanitation - Reduced labor requirements for the farmer - Consistent product quality - Compliance with food safety regulations ### Custom Processing Facilities Custom processing facilities process birds for a fee. These facilities may require advance scheduling and minimum bird numbers. Some facilities offer additional services such as cut-up, packaging, and freezing. Processing costs vary by region and services provided. ## Record Keeping and Flock Management ### Essential Records Maintain the following records for each flock: - Source and date of chick arrival - Number of birds started and mortality records - Feed consumption by type and date - Medication and vaccine administration records - Daily observations of bird health and behavior - Processing dates and weights - Sales records and customer information ### Record Keeping Systems Paper records work well for small flocks. Digital spreadsheets or farm management software provide additional analysis capabilities. The USDA National Agricultural Library offers resources on animal health record keeping [5]. Records help identify trends in flock performance and support decision-making for future flocks. ### Performance Monitoring Track the following performance indicators: - Mortality rate (target under 5% for most flocks) - Average daily gain - Feed conversion ratio - Condemnation rate at processing - Customer satisfaction and repeat business ## Common Failure Patterns ### High Mortality Elevated mortality often results from: - Inadequate brooder temperature management - Poor ventilation causing ammonia buildup - Disease outbreaks from inadequate biosecurity - Predator losses from insufficient protection - Heat stress during transport or processing ### Poor Feed Conversion High feed conversion ratios indicate inefficiency. Common causes include: - Feed waste from poorly designed feeders - Feed spoilage from moisture or pest contamination - Environmental stress from temperature extremes - Disease challenges that reduce feed intake - Breed genetics not suited to the production system ### Leg Problems Leg problems reduce bird welfare and increase mortality. Contributing factors include: - Rapid growth rates in fast-growing breeds - Slippery flooring surfaces - Nutritional imbalances in calcium and phosphorus - Insufficient exercise in confinement systems - Genetic predisposition in certain lines ## Welfare Considerations ### Space Requirements Broiler chickens require adequate space for normal behavior. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides reference information on poultry welfare standards [3]. Space allowances affect bird health, activity levels, and carcass quality. Overcrowding increases stress, disease transmission, and mortality. ### Environmental Enrichment Providing enrichment improves bird welfare and can reduce behavioral problems. Options include: - Perches for roosting behavior - Straw bales for pecking and scratching - Natural light in housing areas - Outdoor access for foraging - Varied feed textures or supplemental grains ### Handling and Transport Proper handling reduces stress and improves meat quality. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal welfare during transport [5]. Key practices include: - Using low-stress catching techniques - Minimizing time between catching and processing - Providing ventilation during transport - Protecting birds from temperature extremes - Using clean, well-maintained transport containers ## Worker Safety ### Physical Hazards Poultry production involves physical hazards that require attention: - Lifting heavy feed bags and equipment - Working in dusty environments - Handling live birds that may scratch or peck - Operating processing equipment - Working in wet or slippery conditions ### Respiratory Protection Dust and ammonia in poultry houses can cause respiratory problems. Use appropriate respiratory protection when working in enclosed spaces. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on agricultural safety [5]. Ventilation systems should maintain air quality within safe limits. ### Zoonotic Disease Risks Workers can contract diseases from poultry. Research has identified methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in poultry and poultry meat [6]. Another study found Helicobacter pylori strains isolated from raw poultry meat [10]. Practice good hygiene including hand washing after bird contact. Use gloves when handling birds or processing carcasses. Seek medical attention for persistent respiratory or gastrointestinal symptoms. ## Professional Escalation Criteria ### When to Contact a Veterinarian Contact a veterinarian when you observe: - Mortality exceeding 1% per day for two consecutive days - Respiratory signs affecting more than 10% of the flock - Sudden drop in feed or water consumption - Neurological signs such as twisted necks or paralysis - Swollen heads or faces in multiple birds - Diarrhea or unusual droppings in multiple birds ### When to Contact Extension Services Contact your state extension service for: - Feed formulation questions - Pasture management advice - Business planning assistance - Marketing and sales guidance - Regulatory compliance questions ### When to Contact Regulatory Agencies Contact your state department of agriculture or USDA APHIS for: - Reportable disease suspicions - Processing facility inspections - Sales and labeling regulations - Export certification requirements - Emergency disease response information ## Decision Framework for Selecting a Broiler Production System Choosing between pasture, confinement, or mixed systems requires a structured evaluation of your farm's specific constraints and goals. This decision framework provides a step-by-step method to match production system characteristics with your operational reality, using measurable criteria instead of general preferences. ### Step 1: Assess Your Land and Infrastructure Begin by evaluating your available land and existing infrastructure. Measure the total acreage you can dedicate to broiler production, noting slope, drainage, and soil type. Level ground with good drainage supports chicken tractor movement and prevents mud problems. Sloped land may require terracing or limit tractor use. Record the following for your site: - Total usable acreage for poultry - Distance from water and power sources - Existing buildings that could serve as housing - Predator pressure from foxes, raccoons, hawks, or dogs - Proximity to neighbors and roads The FAO provides general information on poultry production systems and facility requirements [1]. For pasture systems, allocate at least 1,000 square feet per 50 birds for rotational grazing. Confinement systems require less land but more investment in ventilation and litter management. ### Step 2: Calculate Labor Availability Labor is the most underestimated input in small-scale broiler production. Chicken tractors require daily movement, which takes 15 to 30 minutes per tractor depending on size and terrain. Feeding, watering, and health checks add another 30 to 60 minutes daily. Processing day requires 4 to 8 hours for 50 birds with a small crew. Create a labor budget for your operation: | Task | Time per Day | Days per Week | Weekly Hours | |------|--------------|---------------|--------------| | Moving tractors | 0.5 hours | 7 | 3.5 | | Feeding and watering | 0.5 hours | 7 | 3.5 | | Health checks | 0.25 hours | 7 | 1.75 | | Litter management | 1 hour | 1 | 1 | | Pasture maintenance | 2 hours | 1 | 2 | | Record keeping | 0.5 hours | 1 | 0.5 | | **Total weekly** | | | **12.25** | Multiply by the number of flocks per year. A farmer running three flocks of 100 birds each will spend approximately 150 hours annually on direct bird care, plus processing time. If you have less than 10 hours per week available for poultry, choose confinement with automated feeders and waterers to reduce labor demands. ### Step 3: Evaluate Market Requirements Your target market determines breed selection and system choice. Survey potential customers before committing to a system. Ask about: - Preferred chicken size (3-4 pounds versus 5-6 pounds) - Willingness to pay premium prices for pasture-raised - Demand for frozen versus fresh product - Interest in value-added products like cut-up parts or marinated items Research on slow-growing chickens raised in free-range systems shows differences in growth performance and meat quality compared to confinement systems [12]. Another study examining growth rate, carcass traits, and meat quality of slow-growing chickens across three raising systems provides additional context for matching production to market [13]. Customers who value texture and flavor may prefer pasture-raised slow-growing breeds, while those seeking tenderness and mild flavor may favor confinement-raised fast-growing birds. ### Step 4: Match System to Constraints Use the following decision matrix to match your constraints to the appropriate system. Score each factor from 1 (low constraint) to 5 (high constraint) and total the scores. | Constraint Factor | Pasture System | Confinement System | Mixed System | |-------------------|----------------|--------------------|--------------| | Limited land | 3 | 1 | 2 | | Limited labor | 5 | 2 | 4 | | High predator pressure | 4 | 1 | 3 | | Extreme climate | 4 | 1 | 3 | | Premium market demand | 1 | 4 | 2 | | Low startup capital | 2 | 1 | 3 | | Need for automation | 5 | 1 | 3 | Add your scores for each system. The system with the lowest total score best fits your constraints. For example, a farmer with limited land (score 3), limited labor (score 5), high predator pressure (score 4), and extreme climate (score 4) would score pasture at 16, confinement at 5, and mixed at 12, clearly favoring confinement. ### Step 5: Implement a Pilot Flock Before scaling to full production, run a pilot flock of 25 to 50 birds in your chosen system. This trial reveals problems that are not obvious in planning. Track the following metrics during the pilot: - Daily mortality and cause of death - Feed consumption per bird per day - Time spent on each management task - Bird behavior and activity levels - Weather impacts on housing and bird comfort - Predator incidents or near misses The Merck Veterinary Manual provides reference information on poultry health monitoring that applies during pilot trials [3]. Record observations in a notebook or spreadsheet. After processing, evaluate meat quality, customer feedback, and financial returns. Use pilot results to adjust your system before committing to larger flocks. ### Step 6: Establish a Record System A standardized record system allows you to compare performance across flocks and identify problems early. Create a flock record sheet with the following fields: - Flock identification number and date started - Breed and source of chicks - Number of chicks placed - Daily mortality count and cumulative mortality - Feed type and amount fed each day - Water consumption (if metered) - Daily high and low temperatures in housing - Medication or vaccine administration with dates and doses - Processing date, number processed, and total weight - Feed conversion ratio calculated at processing The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health record keeping that support systematic data collection [5]. Review records after each flock to identify trends. A rising mortality rate in the third week across multiple flocks may indicate a brooder management problem. Increasing feed conversion ratio over time may signal feed quality issues or disease pressure. ### Common Decision Errors Farmers often choose systems based on ideals instead of constraints. Common errors include: - Selecting pasture systems without adequate labor for daily moves - Choosing fast-growing breeds for pasture where leg problems increase - Building confinement housing without proper ventilation design - Assuming premium prices without confirming market demand - Starting with too many birds before mastering management basics The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service provides information on poultry disease prevention that applies to all housing types [2]. Disease outbreaks often trace back to system choices that exceed management capacity. ### When to Change Systems Monitor your records for signs that your current system is not working. Consider switching systems if you observe: - Mortality consistently above 5% across multiple flocks - Feed conversion ratio more than 20% above breed standards - Labor requirements exceeding your available time by more than 25% - Customer complaints about meat quality or consistency - Recurring disease problems despite biosecurity measures Research on non-intensive production systems provides information on how different housing approaches affect broiler performance [9]. A system change may improve outcomes, but only if the underlying constraint is addressed. Switching from pasture to confinement will not solve a labor shortage if the confinement system still requires daily feeding and cleaning. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the best breed for [pasture-raised broiler production](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/pasture-raised-broiler-production-management-and-marketing)? Slow-growing breeds such as Red Rangers and Freedom Rangers perform well in pasture systems. These birds have better foraging ability and higher activity levels than fast-growing Cornish Cross birds. Research on slow-growing chickens in free-range systems shows differences in growth performance and meat quality compared to confinement systems [12]. Another study examining growth rate, carcass traits, and meat quality of slow-growing chickens across three raising systems provides additional context for breed selection [13]. ### How much space do broiler chickens need in a chicken tractor? Chicken tractors typically provide 1.5 to 2 square feet per bird for fast-growing breeds and 2 to 3 square feet per bird for slow-growing breeds. The tractor should be moved daily to fresh ground to prevent manure buildup and maintain bird health. The FAO provides general information on poultry production systems and space requirements [1]. ### What is the feed conversion ratio for pasture-raised broilers? Pasture-raised broilers typically have higher feed conversion ratios than confinement-raised birds. Slow-growing breeds on pasture may require 3.5 to 4.5 pounds of feed per pound of gain. Fast-growing breeds in confinement achieve 1.8 to 2.2 pounds of feed per pound of gain. Forage consumption on pasture can reduce purchased feed requirements. ### How long does it take to raise broiler chickens to processing weight? Fast-growing breeds reach processing weight in 6 to 8 weeks. Slow-growing breeds take 8 to 12 weeks. Processing weight targets vary by market but typically range from 4 to 6 pounds live weight. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides reference information on broiler growth rates [3]. ### What are the main health problems in broiler chickens? Common health problems include respiratory infections, coccidiosis, bacterial infections, and leg problems. Parasitic infections such as Raillietina cesticillus can also affect production [11]. Biosecurity practices and good management reduce disease risk. The USDA APHIS provides information on avian disease surveillance and control programs [2]. ### Can I process broiler chickens on my farm? On-farm processing is possible but subject to state regulations. Some states allow on-farm processing and direct sales without inspection if sales volumes are below certain thresholds. Other states require inspection for all commercial sales. Check with your state department of agriculture for specific requirements. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on food safety and processing [5]. ### What records should I keep for broiler production? Maintain records of chick source and arrival date, mortality, feed consumption, medication and vaccine administration, daily health observations, processing dates and weights, and sales information. Records help identify trends and support decision-making. The USDA National Agricultural Library offers resources on animal health record keeping [5]. ### How do I prevent disease in my broiler flock? Implement biosecurity practices including restricting visitor access, using dedicated footwear and clothing, cleaning equipment between flocks, quarantining new birds, and controlling wild bird and rodent access. The USDA APHIS provides information on avian disease prevention [2]. Consult a veterinarian for vaccination recommendations appropriate for your region. ## Related Farming Guides - [Lentivirus Production](/blog/guides/plaque-assays-planning-controls-and-reporting-viral-titer) - [Broiler Chicken Farming Flock Management From Placement To Processing](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/broiler-chicken-farming-flock-management-from-placement-to-processing) - [Broiler Litter Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/broiler-litter-management) - [Pasture Management For Sheep](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/pasture-management-for-sheep) - [Layer Chicken Farming Pullet Development Egg Production Nutrition And Flock Health](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/layer-chicken-farming-pullet-development-egg-production-nutrition-and-flock-health) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Poultry Farm Fencing: Materials, Design, and Predator Exclusion](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/poultry-farm-fencing-materials-design-predator-exclusion) * [Broiler House Wind Speed and Airflow Measurement](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/broiler-house-wind-speed-airflow-measurement) * [Broiler House Heating Systems: Types and Efficiency](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/broiler-house-heating-systems-types-efficiency) ## References and Further Reading - [www.fao.org](https://www.fao.org/poultry-production-products/en) - [www.aphis.usda.gov](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian) - [www.merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/poultry) - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. - [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library. - [Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Poultry and Poultry Meat: A Meta-Analysis.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29877733). Journal of food protection, 2018. - [Recent H9N2 avian influenza virus lost hemagglutination activity due to a K141N substitution in hemagglutinin.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38466094). Journal of virology, 2024. - [Assessing effect of feeding poultry byproducts compost on organoleptic characteristics and compositional profile of meat of broiler chickens.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37937630). Brazilian journal of biology = Revista brasleira de biologia, 2023. - [Backyard poultry: exploring non-intensive production systems.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38056053). [Poultry science](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/poultry-science-research-key-institutions-and-current-directions), 2024. - [Helicobacter pylori Strains Isolated from Raw Poultry Meat in the Shahrekord Region, Iran: Frequency and Molecular Characteristics.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37239366). Genes, 2023. - [Raillietina cesticillus infection causes reduced egg production in chickens in a windowless poultry house.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38233130). The Journal of veterinary medical science, 2024. - [Effect of a free-range raising system on growth performance, carcass yield, and meat quality of slow-growing chicken](https://doi.org/10.3382/ps.2008-00423). Poultry Science, 2009. - [Growth rate, carcass traits and meat quality of slow-growing chicken grown according to three raising systems](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/75949124379). Animal Science Papers and Reports, 2009. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.