Breeding of broiler chickens and thermal conditioning in their facilities: Review

Abstract

Total automation of the aviaries and constant changes in the facilities of broilers have been generated to the time of the year, and many models of sheds can be found on the field with different purposes. Being one of the most modern follow-ups of animal husbandry, the poultry industry is growing every year in terms of technology in poultry accommodation facilities. However, for each region the meteorological factors that can affect the production of the birds must be observed, and from there choose the type of shed that meets the conditions of that region. In this review the intention is to bring information about the breeding and thermal conditioning systems in poultry facilities, as well as their impact on welfare and meat production. In addition to genetic improvement, management, sanitation and adequate nutrition for birds, the facilities have significant importance mainly in the area of animal comfort, considering that in situations that generate stress the animal has a great difficulty in expressing all its genetic potential. In this context, a properly satisfactory return-to-production facility for improving environmental conditions within animal facilities by controlling temperature, relative humidity, solar radiation, and air velocity and quality. The control of the environment is one of the preponderant characteristics to guarantee the comfort and well-being of the birds and to improve the quality of the final product.