Wood Shavings Are Widely Used As Bedding Material For Poultry
Introduction of Wood Shavings:
Bedding material: Wood shavings serve as an excellent bedding
material for poultry houses. They offer a soft surface for the
birds to walk and rest on, promoting healthy foot and leg
conditions. The shavings also help absorb moisture, keeping the
bedding dry and reducing the risk of bacterial growth. This is
particularly important for poultry as damp bedding can lead to
health issues like footpad dermatitis or hock burns.
Insulation and warmth: Wood shavings provide insulation, helping to
regulate the temperature inside the poultry house. They create a
layer of bedding that traps heat and keeps the birds warm during
colder seasons. Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining the
birds' health and preventing stress-related problems.
Odor control: Poultry waste can produce strong odors if not managed
properly. Wood shavings help absorb and control odors by trapping
ammonia and other volatile compounds. This creates a more pleasant
environment for the birds and the farmers working in the poultry
house.
Nesting material: Wood shavings can be used as nesting material for
laying hens. They provide a comfortable and clean surface for hens
to lay their eggs. The shavings help cushion the eggs, reducing the
chances of breakage.
Waste management: Wood shavings can be beneficial in waste
management within the poultry house. They can absorb moisture from
droppings, reducing the risk of wet litter and ammonia buildup.
This promotes better air quality and reduces the incidence of
respiratory issues among the birds.
Using wood shavings as bedding for poultry offers several
advantages that contribute to the health, welfare, and overall
management of the birds. Here are some key advantages of wood shavings for poultry bedding:
Comfortable surface: Wood shavings provide a soft and comfortable
surface for poultry to walk, rest, and nest on. The shavings create
a cushioning effect that helps reduce the risk of foot and leg
problems, such as bumblefoot or leg injuries.
Moisture absorption: Wood shavings have excellent
moisture-absorbing properties. They can effectively absorb and
retain moisture from poultry droppings, preventing the bedding from
becoming damp. By maintaining dry bedding, wood shavings help
reduce the growth of bacteria, fungi, and parasites, promoting a
healthier environment for the birds.
Odor control: Poultry waste can produce strong and unpleasant
odors. Wood shavings help control odors by absorbing and trapping
ammonia and other volatile compounds present in the droppings. This
results in a more pleasant and breathable atmosphere in the poultry
house, benefiting both the birds and the farmers working in the
facility.
Insulation and temperature regulation: Wood shavings provide
insulation, helping to regulate the temperature inside the poultry
house. They create a layer of bedding that helps retain heat during
colder seasons, keeping the birds warm and reducing the risk of
cold stress. In warmer weather, the bedding helps to moderate the
temperature and prevent overheating.
Nesting material: Wood shavings are suitable for use as nesting
material for laying hens. The shavings provide a comfortable and
clean surface for hens to lay their eggs. They help cushion the
eggs, reducing the likelihood of breakage and providing a conducive
environment for successful incubation.
Dust reduction: Compared to other bedding materials like straw or
hay, wood shavings tend to produce less dust. This is beneficial
for the respiratory health of the birds, as excessive dust can
irritate their respiratory system and contribute to respiratory
problems.
Ease of handling and disposal: Wood shavings are lightweight and
easy to handle, making them convenient for bedding management in
poultry houses. They can be easily spread, replaced, or removed as
needed. Wood shavings also decompose relatively easily, simplifying
the disposal process when it comes time to clean out the bedding.
When using wood shavings in poultry farming, it is important to
consider the following:
Quality and cleanliness: Ensure that the wood shavings are clean
and free from contaminants or harmful substances. Avoid using
shavings from treated or painted wood, as these can be toxic to the
birds.
Bedding depth and maintenance: Maintain an appropriate bedding
depth to provide sufficient cushioning and absorbency. Regularly
monitor and manage the bedding to maintain cleanliness and dryness.
Source and sustainability: Choose wood shavings from sustainable
sources to minimize environmental impact. Look for products made
from responsibly managed forests or consider using recycled wood
shavings.
Overall, wood shavings offer several benefits in poultry farming,
including comfortable bedding, moisture absorption, odor control,
insulation, and waste management. Their use can contribute to
improved poultry health, welfare, and overall farm hygiene.
