MANEJO DE PINTAINHOS DE MATRIZES PESADAS

Abstract

The initial management of heavy breeder chicks is a decisive stage for zootechnical performance, health, and future productivity of the birds. This phase requires strict technical control, as chicks are highly sensitive to environmental, nutritional, and management variations. This article aims to describe and discuss the main practices related to the management of heavy breeder chicks, based on activities observed during the supervised internship, addressing aspects such as transportation, housing preparation, lighting, feeding management, temperature control, and air quality. It was observed that the adoption of protocols aligned with technical manuals of commercial strains, such as Cobb and Ross, significantly contributes to reducing initial stress, improving flock uniformity, and decreasing first-week mortality. Furthermore, adequate environmental control—especially temperature, ventilation, and lighting—proved to be essential for animal welfare and the development of the birds’ genetic potential. It is concluded that success in the rearing of heavy breeders depends on the integration of proper management practices, biosecurity, continuous monitoring of environmental parameters, and technical training of professionals, which are fundamental factors for efficiency and sustainability in poultry production.