Chick quality as affected by the broiler breeder and breeder house management

Publication date: 05-08-2026
Extent: 26 pages

Contributions by: Michael J. Wineland, North Carolina State University, USA

Chapter synopsis:

Chick quality is initially influenced by the breeder and breeder house management through nutrition, properties of the egg, to how the eggs are managed before they reach the hatchery. The quality of the chick is also influenced by the incubational processes that the egg is subjected to altering potential quality. Chick quality at day of age is necessary for a good start in the broiler house and allows the broiler to attain its genetic potential. More important than the physical characteristics we use to assess chick quality is how the organ systems developed in the chick, which is difficult to assess in the day-old chick.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2025.0165.06