Providing cool, clean water is key to bird health
Good management of your flock’s water supply is essential to maintain bird health and productivity. In this blog, Humphrey Feeds & Pullets’ Poultry Specialists remind you of their Five Top Tips for managing water on your laying farm.
Check the mineral content of your water
Whether from a bore hole or mains supply, water quality varies across the country, so the only way to check the acidity and mineral content of your water is to test. Water that comes from a bore hole can vary from day to day, so frequent testing is advised.
Check the microbiological content of your water
Water is prone to developing bacteria which can affect gut health and have an impact on productivity. Regular testing for bacterial contamination is key to maintaining a palatable and healthy water supply. Testing will indicate general bacterial levels as well as:
Total Coliforms
Coliforms can be present in soil, vegetation, livestock waste and faeces. They are widely distributed in topsoil meaning surface water is often contaminated. Undesirable, and can be indicative of harmful bacteria.
Faecal Coliforms
These bacteria are only present in human or animal faeces. They do not survive for long in water and their presence indicates fresh faecal pollution, indicative of harmful bacteria.
Test the system
Water that stands for too long or becomes too warm is prone to developing bacteria. This may occur in a water storage tank that is too large or inside a warm pipe, where biofilm may develop: a thin layer of micro-organisms which can attach to solid surfaces. Testing at the entry point of the system may not reflect difficulties further along.
Keep a good water cleaning regime
Deep cleans are vital between flocks, but a variety of water treatment options are available to keep water clean and fresh depending on your needs:
UV filters
Environmentally friendly and additive-free
Only cleans the water at the entry point of the system, so does not break down biofilm
Filters much be changed regularly to be effective.
Hydrogen peroxide
Often used to clean between flocks; can be used at lower concentrations when birds present.
Stabilised variants are the most effective.
Chlorine dioxide
Can help with managing pH levels
Effective in low doses
Chlorine
Relatively cheap
Will not break down biofilm.
Effective against bacteria, but can be made inactive by high mineral content.
Acid
Can break down limescale and biofilm
Will alter the pH of the water and should be closely monitored
Can also help with digestion and minimising diarrhoea, which improves performance
Has a corrosive effect on metal pipe work and fittings.
Keep drinking water cool
During the summer months it can be hard to keep drinking water cool, but this is important for the health of your flock. Cool water is more palatable, meaning the birds will drink freely to cool themselves and remain productive. Cooler water also inhibits the development of biofilm, keeping the water cleaner and healthier. Moving water tends to remain cooler, so flushing systems can help manage water temperature.
Contact our Poultry Specialists for more tips and ideas to keep your birds healthy by email on enquiries@hfandp.co.uk or call us on 01962 764555.
