SAE: Compare weight gain of chicks fed different feed rations
Description:

-         The poultry industry is among the leading agriculture industries in the State of Georgia. The success of the poultry industry relies on research on feed, nutrition, and survivability of the birds. Nutrition and the quality of the feed ration provided to the bird also affect egg quality. Quality eggs provide quality birds. Nutrient analysis and its affects are an excellent project for an Agriscience student interested in Avian science. 

-         Chicks require different protein and calcium percentages at different stages in the growth process. Alteration of these percentages in feed rations can positively or adversely affect the birds. Protein and calcium concentrations directly affect the growth and quality of the bird and the size, quality and fertility of the eggs produced.

-         Chicks should be divided into groups. Each group should be housed in a separate pen and provided separate feeders. Feed should be measured each day to ensure that amount of feed does not alter the outcome of the experiment.

-         Feeds containing different percentages of protein and calcium can be purchased from a feed dealer or the student may purchase supplements to add to a base feed. Students may also prepare their own ration that lacks certain nutrients required for growth comparison. Possible supplements are soybean meal, ground oyster shells, and ground marigolds.

-         Birds should be weighed initially and at set intervals. Egg quality can be evaluated by measuring the weight and size of the egg and the thickness of shell. Fertility can be evaluated based on percentage hatch.

-         Any avian may be used for this experiment. Quail are a good option because of the short life cycle. This provides an evaluation of several generations in a school year. Eggs to begin the project may be purchased from science supply companies or from local breeders.

 

 

Factors To Consider

Ranking:

1 = lowest

10 = highest

Time required

7

Investment 2
Equipment needed 2
Skills required 4
Facilities required 2
Land required 1
Labor Intensity 5
Potential for income 1
Transportation required 1
Expansion possibilities 2
Expertise needed 5
Advertising needed 1
Susceptible to disease 5
Susceptible to insects 2
Suitable for residential areas 8
  Other (specify)
Length of production cycle 1 year at 18 weeks intervals
Regional N/A
When to start project Anytime, but must supplement light during short days.

 

Notes:

  This SAE could provide opportunities to supply birds to local wildlife refuges and management hunting clubs. Wild quail populations have declined in recent years and the potential for income exists once experiment is complete and an ideal ration is determined.

 

 

Sources of Additional Information:

-         Local avian breeders

-         Internet

-         Cooperative Extension Service

-         Poultry Producers and Local Feed Dealers