Broiler Growth Data: 1986-1991

Abstract

Growth data from weekly weighing of 50 bird samples of broilers grown on litter in commercial-style broiler houses in 22 trials over a five-year period are presented. Broilers were found to be 23% heavier at 21 days of age and 10% heavier at 49 days of age than was reported in the literature in 1987. Three-week weights averaged 711 g and seven-week weights averaged 2437 g. Equations were developed and parameters estimated to describe weight as a function of age for two time periods. The time periods selected nominally coincide with (1) the time that starter rations are fed (from hatch to between three and four weeks of age), and (2) the time that growing and finishing rations are fed (from three to four weeks of age until birds are marketed). A second-degree polynomial was used to describe growth during starting (bird age = 28 days). A straight line was used to describe growth during growing (28 days = bird age = 49 days). Parameters are provided for mixed males and females during starting. They are provided for mixed sexes and for males and females separately during growing. Parameter estimates are provided which represent the five years of data in this study and also for estimates of July 1991 growth.