What are layers and broilers in poultry farm?

In poultry farming, "layers" and "broilers" refer to two distinct types of chickens raised for different purposes:

Layers:

* Purpose: Raised primarily for egg production.

* Characteristics:

* Breed: Typically smaller breeds with a high egg-laying capacity.

* Growth: Mature faster than broilers but reach a smaller size.

* Diet: High in calcium to support eggshell formation.

* Examples: Leghorn, Rhode Island Red, White Leghorn

Broilers:

* Purpose: Raised for meat production.

* Characteristics:

* Breed: Large, fast-growing breeds specifically bred for meat production.

* Growth: Rapid growth rate, reaching slaughter weight in 6-8 weeks.

* Diet: High in protein and energy to support rapid muscle growth.

* Examples: Cornish Cross, Cobb 500, Ross 308

Key Differences:

| Feature | Layers | Broilers |

|---|---|---|

| Purpose | Egg production | Meat production |

| Breed | Smaller, egg-laying breeds | Larger, fast-growing breeds |

| Growth rate | Faster than broilers, but smaller size | Extremely fast growth rate |

| Diet | High in calcium | High in protein and energy |

| Slaughter weight | Not applicable | 4-6 pounds |

| Lifespan | 1-2 years (egg-laying) | 6-8 weeks (slaughter) |

In summary, while both layers and broilers are chickens, they are raised for different purposes and have distinct characteristics to maximize their respective outputs.