Managing the Event

Monitor the flock closely. Check if birds are consuming enough water by looking at the colour of the comb or perform crop check by palpating the lower portion of the neck.

The crop should be soft and malleable and individual pellets should not be felt. Note that with increased water consumption litter moisture will increase.

Aviagen recommends water temperature to be maintained between 18-21°C, and never reach above 30°C.

• Consider flushing waterlines to keep water cool;
• Consider testing water quality during a drought as water quality can become effected;
• Test that automatic waters are operating; and
  • Tap the nipples along the line to check for clogs, measure flow rate to make sure your pressure is high enough to ensure poultry are easily able to consume the quantity of water they need.