Chickens
Chickens are primarily used for their meat and their eggs. In the United States, there are more than 1950 million chickens. The chickens that are used for their eggs are called egg-laying hens. Some breeds of chickens can lay up to 300 eggs per year. The chickens used for their meat are called broiler chickens. There are some main states that produce two thirds of the nations chickens. This area is called the broiler belt. These states include Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, and Virginia.
Digestive systemChickens are omnivores. Besides their commercial food, they like to eat grass weeds, grubs, worms, and an occasional mouse. Their digestive system includes the mouth, esophagus (gullet), crop, proventriculus, gizzard, small intestine, liver, ceca, large intestine, and the cloaca.
Fun Fact: Chickens are able to recognize over 100 individuals, including humans!Life StagesIf looking for optimum growth, you will need to consider all of the nutritional requirements. You will need to make sure they have the proper levels of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and most importantly WATER! Some of the things to consider when considering nutritional requirements is age, sex, and breed of the chicken
ChicksChicks will usually be okay with a high quality hick starter. The chick starter usually contains high levels of energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals. The diet should provide them with the proper nutrients for rapid growth and feather development.
PulletEgg Laying Pullets: The diet for pullets should aim to maintain a growth rate for the pullet to reach sexual maturity ate a good weight and not become obese. Many producers will use layering diets which are usually lower in energy and protein levels. Some breeders will increase the calcium levels so when the chicken does start laying eggs it will have the proper levels.
Meat pullets: The main focus for broiler chickens is for them to gain weight relative rapidly. The diet must be monitored very closely so metabolic disorders can be avoided. AdultsFor the egg laying pullets, they will need higher levels of calcium. When the broiler chickens will pretty much be butchered when they reach their optimum body weight.
Fun Fact: Mother hens talk to their chicks when they are still in the egg!Contact Info
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Reproductive SystemThe female chicken reproduction system includes The ovary, the oviduct, and the vagina. Within the Oviduct, there is the infundibulum, the magnum, the isthmus, and the shell gland.
The male chicken reproductive tract includes the testis, seminiferous tubules, epididymus, and the deferens ducts.
Fun Fact: Scientist believe that chickens are the closest living relative to the T-Rex!References
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