How to get the BEST from your Hens

Bulletin #1

Preparing for the Pullets

1. Site preparation and Hen house construction

• Orient Site clearing to allow for East to West house orientation
• Build or open drains to allow for the channelling of storm water away from the building.
• If land is flat raise floor base at least 12-18 inches (Marl layer) to prevent flooding.
• If dwelling house is on the same property build layer house downwind of dwelling house.
• If two houses are being built they should be at least 35 feet apart
• Plant shade trees to the east and west of the building site
• Building should not be more than 35 feet wide if naturally ventilated
• Building roof should angle between 35 and 45 degrees
• Only one block height above foundation is required
• Floor should be of concrete to allow for cleaning and sanitation
• Walls should be of 1 inch mesh wire to allow for ventilation
• Allow for an eave overhang of 5 feet

1. Breed And Strain Selection
2. Brown eggs are preferred therefore the pullet breed and strain selected must produce brown eggs e.g. ISA Brown, Bovan Brown or Hyline Brown.
3. Progress in breeding and selection practices have narrowed the gap between brown and white breeds of layers as it relates to:

• Feed efficiency
• Total eggs produced
• Days to 50% production
• Egg Weight
• Final body weight
• Hen house preparation
• Remove all remaining live or dead birds, floor eggs, litter
• Thoroughly sweep floors and mesh
• Disinfect entire house with approved insecticide / Viricide
• Thoroughly clean all water lines and waterers
• Repair or replace defective feed pans/Light fixtures/nest boxes
• Spread new litter (Rice hulls) 2 to 4 inches deep
• Treat litter with copper or Mertect
• Ensure adequate bedding in nest boxes
• Close house to all human traffic unless properly attired for entry for at least 14 days.