Death on Arrival refers to birds that do not survive transportation from farm to processing plant. The causes include heat stress, suffocation, rough handling, and prolonged transit times. High DOA rates not only result in financial losses but also indicate welfare issues that need urgent attention.
Optimizing Transportation Conditions for Bird Welfare
Proper vehicle design, adequate ventilation, and controlled stocking density play a crucial role in reducing stress and mortality during transport. Ensuring birds have sufficient space and access to fresh air can significantly lower DOA rates.
Handling and Loading Best Practices
Birds should be handled gently and loaded in a stress-free environment. Training workers on proper catching, carrying, and loading techniques minimizes injuries and stress-related fatalities. Using well-ventilated crates and avoiding overcrowding are also essential steps.
Monitoring Environmental Factors During Transit
Extreme temperatures and humidity can be deadly for poultry in transit. Using temperature-controlled trucks, avoiding transportation during peak heat hours, and monitoring weather conditions help prevent heat stress and suffocation.
Enhancing Biosecurity to Reduce Disease-Related DOA
Diseases like avian influenza or bacterial infections can weaken birds, making them more vulnerable during transport. Implementing strict biosecurity measures, such as regular health checks and sanitized transport vehicles, reduces the risk of disease-related DOA.
Conclusion
Reducing Death on Arrival in poultry transport requires a combination of improved logistics, better handling, and enhanced biosecurity measures. By focusing on transportation efficiency and bird welfare, poultry farmers can minimize losses, ensure regulatory compliance, and enhance overall farm profitability.
