Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
an average of 4.72 sq. ft./bird in summer housing and 4.62 sq. ft./bird in winter housing. As
evidenced by this survey, smaller commercial organic flocks that are only part of the farm's di-
versity tend to receive more space and range options. The smaller flock size makes this more
feasible, but it also signals the commitment of these farmers to free-range, pasture-based
poultry production.
Choosing and Using Litter
Regardless of the type of housing, all birds require similar equipment and facilities. Important,
particularly in winter housing, is litter management. Most organic producers who answered the
survey, whether large or small, typically use a deep-litter system. The use of deep litter in hous-
ing provides for the absorption of manure, but also gives a variable substrate (uneven footing)
for the physical and psychological health of the birds. Proper litter type and management can
provide birds with the following benefits:
• A variable substrate for proper leg development and foot health.
• A friable surface for scratching, foraging, and dusting.
• An absorbent bedding to control manure and other moisture.
• A properly composting pack providing warmth while breaking down manure, des-
troying harmful bacteria, and controlling ammonia.
3B
Consider these points when managing litter:
• Choose one that is available locally and is economically feasible.
• Options include sawdust, wood chips, wood shavings, hay chaff, soybean stubble,
corn fodder, ground cobs, leaves, rice hulls, peanut hulls, chopped pine straw, or
chopped straw.
• Hardwood shavings and sawdust often have a high moisture content and are sus-
ceptible to dangerous mold growth (this can also happen to improperly stored dry
shavings).
• Hardwood chips can cause splinters in birds' feet.
• Avoid cherry and walnut products as the tannins may cause poisoning.
• If hay or straw aren't chopped, they may mat with manure and cause capping.
• Litter that has gotten wet in storage is useless for moisture absorption.
