The deep litter system is a traditional poultry housing design where a thick layer of bedding material, like wood shavings, sawdust, or rice hulls, is spread on the floor of the poultry house for the purpose of moisture absorption and temperature regulation.
The deep litter system can be used to raise broilers (meat) and layers (for eggs). As the birds live on this bedding, their droppings, spilled feed, and water are absorbed, making the poultry house dry always and preventing infectious diseases like coccidiosis. Also, the litter enables the birds to carry about their innate behavior of dust bathing.
The deep litter system is most beneficial for young chicks and laying hens. Although the deep litter system is one of the most efficient ways of managing litter, it also has its benefits and drawbacks. To learn more about this system, read on. We’ll cover each of them in detail.
Advantages of Deep Litter System
- One of the primary benefits of the deep litter system is the provision of a comfortable and insulating environment for the birds, reducing stress and promoting better growth and performance.
- Deep litter system is an effective method for manure management and odor control in a poultry house.
- Less labor is needed for daily maintenance in a deep litter system because the litter is removed after about 10 days of usage.
- The heat generated by the decomposing liters helps to reduce the energy required for heating the poultry house, especially during colder months.
- Used litter materials are rich in organic matter and nutrients like nitrogen. It can be composted and used as organic soil amendment or fertilizer for crops in the garden.
- The deep litter system can help prevent foot pad lesions, breast blisters, and other skin conditions in chickens as it helps minimize the formation of wet spots and caked areas.
- Deep litter system improves the air quality of the poultry house by absorbing moisture and reducing ammonia levels.
Disadvantages of Deep Litter System
- High risk of disease transmission is prevalent in the deep litter system because the litter materials can harbor the growth and spread of harmful pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
- High levels of ammonia released as the litter decomposes can cause chronic respiratory diseases, decreased productivity, increased susceptibility to diseases, and even mortality.
- Accumulation of used litter materials can cause environmental pollution and the breeding of pathogens.
- Prolonged exposure to ammonia can cause respiratory issues and irritation in farm workers.
- Deep litter system demands a more labor-intensive process during the cleaning out of the accumulated litter.
Best Practices for Deep Litter Management
- The litter must be at least six inches deep in order for them to be effective
- Proper ventilation, adjusting the drinker heights, and adding fresh litter can help maintain ideal moisture levels.
- Use specialized equipment like litter rakes, tillers, or aerators to break up caked litter materials, promote drying, and improve air circulation within the litter.
- Biosecurity protocols like proper sanitation, disinfection, and limiting access to the poultry house can minimize the introduction and spread of pathogens.
- Regular removal and disposal of old litter to prevent disease transmission and pathogen build-up.
- Spreading litter amendments, like aluminum sulfate, on the litter materials can control ammonia levels and improve litter quality.
- Keeping detailed records of litter management practices, including litter depth, moisture levels, ammonia readings, and any adjustments made can aid proper litter management.
By following these practices, poultry farmers can maximize the benefits of the deep litter system while minimizing potential risks and drawbacks, ensuring a healthy and productive flock.
In conclusion,
The deep litter system in poultry farming offers both advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, the deep litter system can improve the bird health. However, it also carries risks such as disease transmission and ammonia accumulation. Proper management of the litter materials can bring out the beneficial potential of the deep litter system.