Effects of feed composition and feeding schedule on growth and development of broiler breeder males

Abstract

Two experiments were conducted to compare the effects of feeding broiler breeder males: 1) a 15 or 20% protein starter diet (0 to 4 weeks) and 2) varying levels of energy and protein on an every day (ED) or on an every other day (EOD) basis during the growing period (4 to 20 weeks). Weight gain and shank length at 28 days were less for males started on 15% protein in both experiments. In the first experiment, males fed diets containing 2.8 kcal metabolizable energy (ME)/g during the grower period weighed and gained more than those fed 2.0 kcal ME/g although total ME intake was the same. Males fed ED gained significantly more than those fed EOD. In the second experiment, males fed 15% protein during the grower period gained and weighed more than those fed 12 or 18% protein, and those fed 15% ED gained and weighed significantly more than those fed 20% EOD. In both experiments males fed ED were more feed efficient (as measured by gain/feed consumed) than males fed EOD but consuming the same amount of feed. Semen characteristics were not affected by feeding schedule or grower diet protein level. Fertility was higher in 3 of the 4 weeks sampled for males fed 15% ED. Results indicate that feeding schedule (ED vs. EOD) as well as nutrient intake influence body weight gains of broiler breeder males.