open access

Submitted: 2026-03-08
Animal Production and Health
Published: 2026-03-31

Determination of ideal brooding temperature for broilers performance and welfare

Division of Agricultural Colleges, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Department of Soil science, Federal University, Dutsin-ma, Katsina state, Nigeria
Centre for Dryland Agriculture, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria

Abstract

This study explores the determination of optimal brooding temperatures for broilers to enhance growth performance and welfare. Using a completely randomized design (CRD), 60-day-old broiler chicks were assigned to four different treatments: charcoal heat, electric bulb heat, ambient temperature, and local lamp combined with ambient temperature. Each treatment was replicated three times. Key parameters, including weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and mortality rates, were assessed over four weeks using JMP 15.0.0 statistical software. Results indicated significant variations among treatments in temperature stability, growth performance, and feed efficiency. Charcoal heat, maintaining an average temperature of 32.6°C, achieved the highest weight gain (944 g) and the most efficient FCR (1.28). The electric bulb heat source maintained an average temperature of 30.4°C, producing comparable but slightly lower outcomes in weight gain (915 g) and FCR (1.41). In contrast, ambient temperature conditions recorded the lowest average temperature (25.89°C), resulting in poor growth performance, the highest FCR (1.74), and the highest mortality rate (33.3%). The local lamp combined with ambient temperature achieved moderate results, reflecting intermediate performance metrics. These findings underscore the critical role of temperature regulation in broiler production, particularly during the early brooding phase when chicks are most vulnerable to temperature stress. Optimal temperatures between 30°C and 33°C, achieved with charcoal or electric bulb heating, significantly enhanced growth and feed efficiency while minimizing mortality. This study provides actionable insights for small- and large-scale poultry operations, particularly in resource-limited settings, where access to electricity or advanced heating systems may be constrained. The results emphasize the need for sustainable and efficient heating methods to improve broiler productivity and welfare in diverse farming conditions.

Keywords: Broilers, Brooding, Chicken, Temperature, welfare