Broiler Cage Manual Bird Harvesting Process Manual bird harvesting in broiler cages is a critical step in poultry production, ensuring the safe and efficient collection of birds for processing. This process requires careful handling to maintain bird welfare, minimize stress, and ensure product quality. Below is a detailed description of the key steps involved in manual broiler harvesting from cages. 1. Pre-Harvest Preparation Before harvesting begins, workers must ensure all equipment and tools are ready. This includes checking the availability of transport crates, ensuring proper lighting in the house, and verifying that pathways are clear for smooth movement. Workers should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and coveralls, to maintain hygiene and safety. 2. Bird Collection Process - Approach and Handling: Workers move systematically through the cage rows, gently grasping broilers by their legs (one leg in each hand) to lift them from the cages. Proper handling is crucial to avoid injuries or excessive stress. - Transfer to Crates: Birds are carefully placed into transport crates, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Each crate should hold a specified number of broilers to prevent suffocation or injury during transport. - Monitoring Bird Welfare: Workers must check for signs of distress or injury during collection. Any birds showing health issues should be separated and handled according to welfare guidelines. 3. Loading and Transport Once crates are filled, they are loaded onto trucks or conveyors for transport to the processing plant. The loading process should be smooth to avoid jolts or sudden movements that could stress the birds. Proper ventilation must be maintained during transport to ensure adequate airflow. 4. Post-Harvest Procedures - Equipment Sanitation: After harvesting, all crates and tools must be cleaned and disinfected to prevent contamination. - House Cleaning: The empty cages and housing area should be inspected and prepared for the next flock, including removing debris and sanitizing surfaces. Key Considerations - Worker Training: Proper training ensures efficient and humane bird handling. - Minimizing Stress: Quick, calm movements reduce bird agitation, improving meat quality. - Compliance with Regulations: Harvesting practices must follow animal welfare and food safety standards. By following these steps, manual broiler harvesting can be conducted efficiently while maintaining high standards of bird welfare and product quality.