Brooding is a critical aspect of goose farming, significantly influencing the economic returns of the entire production cycle. Goslings, from hatching to 20 days old, are particularly vulnerable due to their thin down, underdeveloped thermoregulation, and weak digestive systems. They are sensitive to cold, heat, and humidity, making proper brooding techniques essential. Below are key points to ensure successful gosling rearing:
1. **Preparation of the Brooding Area**
Two weeks before hatching, thoroughly clean the brooding house. Disinfect the floor and walls with 10% fresh lime water, and wash all equipment with 2% caustic soda. Ensure that feeders, drinkers, lighting, insulation, and ventilation systems are in place for optimal conditions.
2. **Selecting Healthy Goslings**
The quality of goslings directly affects survival and growth rates. Choose those from vaccinated parent geese. Use the "look and touch" method: observe mental state and feather color, then check for a firm, dry navel, normal abdominal size, and responsiveness when handled. Ideal goslings should be active, have clean feathers, and show strong vitality.
3. **Safe Transportation**
Transport goslings in enclosed vehicles during cold weather to protect them from wind and temperature extremes. Avoid overloading. In hot weather, use open-top vehicles or transport at night. Dehydration can occur during long trips or high temperatures. To check dehydration, observe if goslings drink water within 10-15 minutes after being placed on a plastic sheet. If not, increase room temperature and provide saltwater solution immediately.
4. **Timely Feeding and Watering**
Provide water and food within 24 hours of hatching. Start with a 0.02% potassium permanganate solution to stimulate drinking and aid digestion. Offer warm boiled water for the first few days. Feed finely cooked grains, broken rice, or cornmeal mixed with egg yolk. Gradually introduce green feed as goslings grow.
5. **Appropriate Feeding Practices**
Goslings need small, frequent meals. Feed 6–8 times daily, especially during the first three days. Adjust feed types gradually, avoiding sudden changes. Green feed like lettuce or grass should be washed and cut into small pieces. Maintain proper feeding amounts based on age to avoid overfeeding or underfeeding.
6. **Temperature and Humidity Control**
Maintain appropriate temperature and humidity levels. Temperatures should decrease gradually from 28°C to 20°C as goslings age. Monitor gosling behavior: if they huddle, they may be too cold; if they pant, it’s too hot. Keep humidity between 60–65% to prevent respiratory issues and maintain dry bedding.
7. **Proper Feeder Setup and Stocking Density**
Use appropriately sized feeders for different ages. For example, 1–7-day-old goslings require 90 cm long troughs, while older ones need larger sizes. Stocking density should decrease as goslings grow, typically around 20–35 per square meter initially.
8. **Grazing and Water Access**
Introduce grazing early to improve health and reduce feed costs. Start grazing when weather is mild, and gradually increase time and distance. Allow goslings to swim in water once their feathers are fully grown, ensuring they are dry before entering the water.
9. **Disease Prevention and Management**
Maintain cleanliness by regularly cleaning feeders, waterers, and bedding. Vaccinate goslings against common diseases, and administer antibiotics through feed or water as needed. Ensure proper sanitation and secure housing to prevent pests and disease outbreaks.
By following these detailed brooding practices, farmers can significantly improve gosling survival, growth, and overall productivity.
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