Autumn and Winter Season Egg Management Techniques

Winter climate is characterized by a gradual decline in temperature, low relative humidity, and dry air. This creates a growing conflict between the need for ventilation and the requirement for insulation. Daylight hours are decreasing, reducing natural light exposure in open chicken houses. In addition, strong northwest winds bring frequent temperature fluctuations, with a significant difference between day and night temperatures—typically 10–15°C—which can easily lead to cold stress in hens. During winter, several health issues tend to arise due to environmental challenges. First, influenza becomes more prevalent, and if vaccination or disease prevention protocols are not strictly followed, outbreaks can occur. Second, the combination of cold temperatures (often below -10°C) and poor coordination between ventilation and heat retention can trigger respiratory diseases. Third, sudden temperature changes, overcrowding, and inadequate ventilation during the autumn-winter period increase the risk of infectious rhinitis. Lastly, shorter daylight hours require careful management of lighting systems, such as fans and small windows, to ensure proper illumination and shading. Effective management during the autumn and winter seasons is crucial. First, preventing disease before it occurs is essential. Laying hens are vulnerable to respiratory infections and Newcastle disease, so maintaining strict biosecurity measures is vital. This includes controlling access to the farm, disinfecting regularly, and administering vaccines like those for Newcastle disease, fowl cholera, and fowlpox. Monitoring the flock closely and isolating sick birds promptly is also key. Second, controlling the source of infection and interrupting transmission routes is important. Employees should avoid contact with live poultry and maintain strict hygiene practices. Measures include bathing, changing into clean clothing, and using disinfectant foot baths before entering the premises. The three main transmission pathways—people, air, and vectors—must be managed carefully. For example, adjusting fan speed and air intake helps control airborne pathogens, while cleaning up dead birds and feathers prevents contamination. Third, proper ventilation is essential to reduce seasonal stress. Regularly ventilating the hen house ensures fresh air circulation. In closed systems, vents should be opened at set intervals based on air quality. In windowed houses, the number and duration of openings depend on bird density, temperature, and wind conditions. Maintaining a stable indoor temperature (targeting 8–13°C) and minimizing temperature fluctuations between morning and evening (within 3–5°C) is critical. Wind speed should be kept between 5.5–6.5 m/s, and ventilation windows adjusted according to daily temperature patterns. Fourth, effective insulation is necessary to maintain a stable environment. Preparations such as sealing windows, hanging curtains, and repairing leaks help retain heat while allowing for proper airflow. Finally, special environments like windy days or sudden temperature drops require tailored responses, such as adjusting air intake and increasing insulation. In summary, successful winter management involves implementing robust disease prevention strategies, balancing ventilation and insulation, and adapting to changing environmental conditions. A well-planned feeding and management system not only enhances farmer income but also improves the productivity and health of laying hens during the colder months.

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