Guides 2 min read
A turkey flock's success is largely decided in the first three days. What to do before and after the poults arrive.
In their first days, turkey poults cannot fully regulate their body temperature and may struggle to find feed and water on their own. That makes the first 72 hours the most critical period for the flock's later performance.
Before arrival
- The house should be cleaned, disinfected and fully dry.
- Litter should be dry, dust-free and evenly spread.
- Start heating at least 24 hours before arrival; the litter needs to warm up too.
- Feeders and drinkers should be in place, with clean water close to room temperature.
On delivery
Unload the poults quickly and place them directly in the brooding area. Don't leave the boxes standing in the house. Meanwhile, sample a few boxes at random to check vitality, navels and legs.
Access to feed and water
In the first hours, sprinkling feed on paper or egg flats as extra feeders helps poults find it. Drinkers should be at a height poults can reach easily. Some farms gently dip a few beaks in water to teach drinking.
Crop fill check
Within the first day, gently feel the crops of randomly chosen poults. A soft, full crop means the poult has found both feed and water. If many crops are empty or hard, review heat, lighting and the feeder and drinker layout.
Watch the behavior
How poults spread out is the best thermometer. Crowding under the heater means they are cold; moving away from it and panting means it is too hot; huddling in one corner may point to a draft.
Atmaca Hindicilik poults are health- and quality-checked before delivery. Contact our team to plan your delivery.
