Poultry Judging Practice Test

A well-planned brooding and growing program for a broiler breeder will yield 5% hen-day production at what age?

1. 20 weeks

2. 22 weeks

3. 24 weeks

4. 26 weeks

The correct answer is: 24 weeks

The age at which a well-planned brooding and growing program yields 5% hen-day production is typically around 24 weeks. At this stage, the hens have usually reached a point in their growth and development where their reproductive systems are sufficiently mature to begin producing eggs. This timing is crucial because it aligns with the physiological development of the birds, ensuring optimal production performance. The 24-week mark is a standard timeframe in the poultry industry due to the need for pullets (young hens) to reach sexual maturity and start laying eggs. It is an important benchmark for broiler breeders as it indicates the beginning of significant egg production, which directly impacts profitability and flock management strategies. The other options represent ages that are either too early or too late for achieving the desired production level. At 20 weeks, the birds may not have attained the necessary maturity for egg-laying to begin. At 22 weeks, while the hens may be getting closer, they still may not be at the ideal stage for production. The ages beyond 24 weeks, such as 26 weeks, are generally associated with higher hen-day production percentages rather than the achievement of the initial 5% production target. Thus, emphasizing the significance of the 24-week timeline