Cobb GP Management Guide

COBB Grandparent Management Guide
Introduction
Cobb’s commitment to genetic improvement of our family of products continues to increase
the performance potential in all areas of broiler and broiler breeder production. However,
to attain both genetic potential and consistent flock production, it is important that the flock
manager has a good management program in place. The success of the Cobb broiler breeder
worldwide has provided considerable experience of the breed in a wide range of situations,
such as hot and cold climates, controlled environment and open housing. This management
guide is designed to assist you in building your management program.
Management must not only meet the basic needs of the stock but must also be finely tuned
to benefit fully from the breed’s potential. Some of the guidelines may need to be adapted
locally according to your own experience, and our technical teams will assist with this.
This Cobb Grandparent Management Guide highlights critical factors that are most likely to
influence flock performance and is part of our technical information service, which includes
the Cobb Breeder, Hatchery, Broiler and Vaccination Management Guides, Technical
Bulletins and a full range of performance charts. Our recommendations are based on current
scientific knowledge and practical experience around the world. You should be aware of
local legislation, which may influence the management practice that you choose to adopt.
This Cobb Grandparent Management Guide is intended as a reference and supplement to
your own flock management skills so that you can apply your knowledge and judgment to
obtain consistently good results with the Cobb family of products.
Revised 2011
©2011 Cobb-Vantress, Inc.

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Contents
Page
1. Identifying Lines And Crosses 1-3
1.1 A-B-C-D Concept Explained 1
1.2 Toe Identification 2
1.3 Sex Errors and ID Mistakes 3
1.4 Identifying Fast and Slow Feathering Lines 3
2. Biosecurity 4-11
2.1 Setting up the New Grandparent Facility 4
2.2 Grand Parent Breeder Farm Disinfection Schedule 5
2.3 Fumigation 7
2.4 Fumigation Methods 7
2.5 Vaccination 8
2.6 Medication 9
2.7 Water 9
2.8 Rodent Control 11
3. Calculating GP Package Placement Numbers by Line 12
4. Bird Densities in Rearing and Production 13
5. Feeder Space, Grills, and Feeding Programs in Rearing 14-24
5.1 Grills and Their Openings 14
5.2 Feeding Programs 14
5.3 Feeder and Feeding Concepts 20
6. Water Management 25-26
6.1 Drinkers 25
6.2 Water Management in Rearing and Production 25
7. Selection Procedures 27-32
7.1 Value of Performing Male Selection Properly 27
7.2 Male Selection at 5-6 Weeks of Age 28
7.3 Details of the Selection Procedure 29
7.4 Selection Worksheet 32
8. Male Management 33-38
8.1 Feeding of the Males 33
8.2
Male Bodyweight Curve After Selection 34
9. Female Management 39-41
10. Lighting 42-43
11. Nest Types and Concepts 44-47
11.1 Manual Egg Gathering 44
11.2 Mechanical Nest Systems 45
11.3 Egg Collection Criteria 47
12. Notes 48
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1. identifying lines and crosses

1.1 A-B-C-D Concept Explained
At the GP level, there are 4 different lines of birds, 2 male and 2 female lines. To make it
easier to understand and to avoid confusion, these 4 lines are identified as A-B-C-D. This
identification system will be followed throughout this manual.
• The A line is the male of the male line. GP AxB CxD

• The B line is the female of the male line.
• The C line is the male of the female line.
• The D line is the female of the female line. PS AB CD
The A x B cross will produce the AB

—The Parent Stock (PS) male. Broiler ABCD
The C x D cross will produce the CD
—The Parent Stock (PS) female.
Four commercial female PS lines are available:

1. Cobb 500 (Fast Feather)
2. Cobb 500 (Slow Feather)
3. Cobb Avian48
4. Cobb 700
Two commercial male PS lines are available:

1. Cobb 500 male
2. Cobb MX male
Each of the commercial PS crosses represents a different female and male line combination
with different characteristics. For details of the lines used in each product see the
appropriate Grandparent Management Supplement.
Knowing the body weight curve of each line, along with how to interpret the frame size and
fleshing condition, is crucial for optimizing egg production and fertility. Each line of males and
females is different. This manual should give you some insights into the expected behavior
and conditioning of the lines.
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1.2 Toe Identification

In order to avoid mixing of the lines a double door is always required between the pens of
different lines when they are placed in the same house.
Figure 1: Double door between pens of In Figure 2 the toe identification is

different lines to avoid mixing. explained and how to look at and number
the toes.
Figure 2: Toe identification and back toenails (dewclaws or rudimentary toes). Toes 4 and 5
are always trimmed in the males at any level (GP and PS).
The dewclaws or rudimentary toes (number 4 & 5) are always trimmed in the A and C males
to reduce damage to the backs and thighs of the females during the mating process. Toe-
trimming of toes 4 & 5 therefore offers a net welfare benefit. It is essential that toe-trimming
is only conducted on day-old chicks by skilled, fully trained hatchery personnel.
For further identification of the lines as a check to correct unintentional mixing of flocks, the
A and B line receive an additional toe trim. Each line has its specific toe trim. When several
lines are present in the same housing complex, the C and D lines are also ID toe-trimmed
to avoid any possible mix up of the lines.
(Note: Toe trimming for purposes of line identification is not ideal from a welfare perspective
and Cobb continues to seek better alternatives to this process. It should only be conducted
when allowed by local legislation and should always be conducted in the hatchery on day-old
chicks by trained personnel.)
AxB Lines at all Farms CxD Lines Multi Line Farms

A B C D
500 male 1-4-5 1 C500sf 4-5-8 8
MX male 3-4-5 3 C500ff 4-5 None
C700sf 4-5-6
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1.3 SEX ERRORS AND ID MISTAKES

Sex errors need to be taken out at any time during the rearing period when positively
identified. The flock needs to be checked closely again during the individual vaccination at
18-19 weeks of age and at the time of transfer from rearing to laying housing. Even with this
procedure, some males could show up later in the production period. For that reason it is
recommended that before hatching eggs are sent to the hatchery (or at around 25 weeks of
age) to re-examine the whole house again with at least 3 persons. If slats are used, have
someone walk on either side of the slats and one walk in the litter area to spot the potential
presence of sex errors.
At 18 weeks of age also check the toe ID of the females to be sure no mixing has happened
in the rearing period, especially when multiple lines are raised in the same house.
1.4 IDENTIFYING FAST AND SLOW FEATHERING LINES

In the C and D line, another aspect can be used to check if the line or chicks are slow or fast
feathering. AT 7 DAYS OF AGE, slow feathering females and males never have developed
tail feathers. If there are slow feathering line chicks with developed tail feathers at 7 days of
age, it means that some mixing has happened (C with D line for example).
FIGURE 3: Slow feathering line tail feather

development (left); fast feathering (right).
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2. BIOSECURITY
2.1 setting up the new grandparent facility
Good biosecurity must encompass all the operations carried out by a producer of breeding
stock. Procedures to prevent the introduction and spread of disease or contamination must
be put in place for feed production, farm operations, hatchery, general maintenance and
personnel. A breakdown in any single area will endanger the whole biosecurity program.
At the GP level and higher up the genetic ladder (GGP and Pedigree), more stringent
measures must be implemented to avoid the possible entrance of harmful pathogens to the
farm complex. Some locations have high disease challenges and may be in areas where
many people have back-yard poultry, with farm people having contact with these chickens at
home. A quarantine period of 3 days without any bird contact before having access to GP
flocks should be implemented.
Upon entering a GP farm, proper attention to details should be observed, such as:
• Entry log to confirm the personal data for each visitor and their compliance with biosecurity
requirements prior to farm entry.
• Procedures to ensure that no personal items enter the farm.
• Rinsing the throat with an anti-bacterial product (like Listerine™) before entering the
showers.
• When in the showers, having a control (visual) to be sure that every person follows basic
showering rules (full body & hair wash with soap, use of nail brushes to scrub hands and
nails, etc).
Being constantly aware and responsible of what one is doing all the time is the best way to
keep the flocks clean and healthy for maximum flock performance and the production of good
quality parent stock offspring.
The following basic items outline the biosecurity measures that must be implemented at farm level:
1. Choose an isolated site when developing new grandparent facilities and check
governmental rules that assures that nobody can build another farm within close proximity
to the poultry buildings or entry road. If this is not guaranteed more land should be
purchased to have a minimum distance of 500 m to the fence line of the property.
2. Farms should contain flocks of a single age. As a general rule, the distance between
flocks of different ages should be no less than 600 meters (2000 ft.).
3. Each farm must have a perimeter fence to prevent unauthorized entry of people, vehicles
and animals.
4. All houses must have concrete floors.
5. Feed delivery vehicles should not enter the farm, but should fill feed bins from outside the
perimeter fence. Feed bonding should take place in feed bins or feed silos at a secure
location or at the entrance of the farm. Bonding means that the feed is kept in the silo
for 3 to 7 days before being used. This waiting period allows the laboratory to test the
feed for freedom from Salmonella before it is delivered to the chickens for consumption.
During the waiting period, a red warning shield or sign should be used to indicate that this
feed cannot yet be used in the farm. In addition to testing for pathogen freedom, the
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bonding period also allows any antibacterial treatment applied during the manufacturing
process to have more time to function before the feed is utilized.
6. Any vehicle that must enter the farm must be washed and disinfected prior to entry to the
farm, with attention to the interior, pedals and flooring of the cab.
7. Have a separate clean and dirty road system on the farm. The dirty road system should
be used to transport spent hens at the end of the production cycle and any equipment
used when the houses are cleaned out (litter, etc). The clean road should be used for
delivery of shavings, pullets, feed, etc.
8. All farm workers and any other personnel who need to enter the farm must completely
shower with soap and change into a clean and designated uniform. Shower facilities can
be a biosecurity risk within themselves – they must be kept clean!
9. No other poultry, livestock or domestic pets of any kind may be allowed on grandparent
farms.
10. All buildings must be vermin and wild bird proof.
11. A vermin control program should be practiced at all times. It is important to maintain a
clean, well groomed environment. Rotate brands of bait frequently to prevent vermin
developing reluctance to consume the bait. Any spilled feed should be cleaned up
immediately.
2.2 Grand Parent Breeder Farm Disinfection Schedule

1. It is recommended that all dead birds be disposed of by incinerating on the farm.
2. Brush or wash the dust down so that it can be removed with the litter.
3. All portable equipment should be removed from the house and cleaned with a pressure
washer, using a detergent solution. The equipment should then be disinfected using an
officially approved disinfectant at the correct dilution as recommended by the manufacturer.
4. Remove the litter from the house and away from the site on covered transport.
5. Pressure wash suitable surfaces of the house with a detergent solution, paying particular
attention to air inlets, fan housings and concrete floors.
6. Use the pressure washer on the outside of the fan housings and air inlets. It is advisable
to wash off the dust that accumulates on the roofs and gutters (if present). If left, this is
not only a source of contamination but can cause the roof to deteriorate.
7. Do not use high pressure when washing aluminum or plastic shutters. They can be
damaged and will not function properly.
8. At the end of the flock, collect any remaining feed and remove from the site. The bins
should then be thoroughly cleaned out and fumigated by the most appropriate method,
according to the age and design of the bins.
9. When the interior is clean, pressure wash the entire house using an approved disinfectant.
Again, it is advisable to disinfect the areas of the roof surrounding the fan shafts and
gutters.
10. It will normally be necessary to treat the house with an approved insecticide. Follow the
manufacturer’s instructions and introduce the application into the disinfection schedule as
recommended by the insecticide manufacturer.
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11. Drain the entire water system. Then add 3% concentration of hydrogen peroxide (or other
approved water cleaning product) directly to the nipple lines, maintaining this solution for
3 days in the system. Activate all nipples with a brush or by hand to be sure they are not
stuck. After 3 days flush the entire water system with enough pressure to remove any
scale, biofilm and debris. Again activate all the nipples. Finally, disinfect the whole system
with a sanitizing solution (most often used is chlorine at 5 ppm), leaving this in the system
for several hours. Then flush this solution from the system and replace with clean water.
Make sure that all traces of disinfectant are removed as this can impair the future use of
vaccines as well as discourage the birds from drinking. A last flushing can be done 24
hours before arrival of the birds to be sure the water is fresh and at the right temperature.
12. When the floor is dry, spray the floor and the sidewalls with a disinfectant. It is advisable
to spray an area of 6 meters (20 feet) around the exterior walls and base of the house
with the disinfectant solution for additional biosecurity of the environment.
13. When the house interior is dry, re-bed with new material and set up the equipment. Then
close and warm the house to 21ºC (70ºF) and fumigate/fog with formaldehyde gas (see
sections 2.3 and 2.4 for details concerning fumigation). This procedure should be carried
out at least 48 hours before restocking.
14. After 24 hours, neutralize the gas, open the house inlets and fully ventilate. It is essential
that ventilation is adequate to clear all formaldehyde gas residues before allowing people
to return to work in the poultry house. Formaldehyde gas can be neutralized by ammonia
if needed.
15. Include the egg room, feed storage, showers and changing rooms in the cleaning and
disinfection process.
16. Keep a record of all visitors.
REMEMBER:
Hygiene is your insurance policy.
Organic material left in the house will dramatically reduce the effectiveness of any disinfectant.
All waste matter must be removed before applying disinfectant.
It is impossible to sterilize a house but it is possible to reduce the number of pathogens to an
insignificant level.
Maintain a rigorous vermin control policy.
Keep the doors shut at all times to prevent re-introduction of vermin and other contaminants.
Disinfection: Step by step

• Empty house of all poultry
• Clean out all organic matter and remove far off site
• Remove all portable equipment for cleaning and disinfecting outside building
• Wash down all the inside surfaces with heavy-duty detergent, under pressure if possible
• Apply disinfectant with guaranteed activity against viruses and bacteria that can infect
poultry
• Use an insecticide and rodenticide
• Fumigate with formaldehyde or other approved product.
• Replace equipment, put down new bedding material and preferably fumigate again before
house is re-stocked
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2.3 Fumigation
Formaldehyde has been used for many years as an effective fumigant. The environment
during fumigation is critical to its efficiency, and these are the points to follow:
1. Increase the relative humidity to 70-80 %.
2. Heat house to 21º C (70º F) as formaldehyde gas has a high temperature coefficient.
3. Wash down all surfaces or place pans of water in the house to increase the relative
humidity and gain the maximum benefit from both the gaseous actions of formaldehyde
and its condensation into a polymerized form.
4. The house should be sealed and left to cool for 24 hours after fumigation, thus promoting
uniform condensation.
2.4 Fumigation Methods

Formalin and Potassium Permanganate
This method is not recommended on the basis of Health and Safety concerns as it
produces a violent chemical reaction that generates considerable heat and releases
formaldehyde gas. Use 1 liter per 25 m3 (40 fluid ounces/1000 ft3) formalin in the ratio of three
parts formalin to two parts of potassium permanganate. Because of the violent chemical
reaction, never use more than 1.2 liters (2 pints) of formalin in any one container. The
container should have deep sides (at least 3 times the depth of the chemicals, with a diameter
equal to the height) to prevent the mixture from bubbling over. The formalin must be placed
on concrete or metal, and not on shavings or any other flammable material.
In practice, first calculate the cubic capacity of the house; i.e., 55 meters (180 ft.) in length x
10 meters (32 ft.) in width x 3.1 meters (10 ft.) in average height = 1075 m3 (60,210 ft3).
This would require:

• 43 liters (11.3 gallons) of formalin
• 36 containers
• 29 kg (64 lbs.) of potassium permanganate
Place 760 g (27 ounces) of potassium permanganate into each container, preferably with two
operators for safety. Start at the far end of the house, placing as quickly as possible 1.2 liters
(2 pints) of formalin into each container. Operators should wear a respirator, eye protection,
gloves and other personal protection equipment throughout the entire procedure.
Heating Solid Paraformaldehyde

This is probably the most convenient method of producing formaldehyde gas. Paraformaldehyde
prills are heated to a temperature of 218ºC (425ºF). Generally 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of prills will be
sufficient for 300 m3 (1 lb of prills for 5000 ft3). If the heating device is fitted with a time switch,
this system can be fully automatic. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
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Formalin Vapor
A mixture of equal parts of water and formalin dispersed as an aerosol is a very efficient
method. Use 28 ml (5 oz) of formalin with 28 ml (5oz) of water for every 60 m3 (1000 ft3). This
should be generated as an aerosol using the necessary equipment. In each house it may be
necessary to use more than one generator or employ some system of removing the generator
and refilling. There are companies providing such a service to the poultry industry.
Precaution
Formalin solution and formaldehyde gas both represent a hazard to human and animal life.
Operators must be provided with and wear suitable protective clothing, full face respirators,
eye shields and gloves and should be aware of current legislation affecting these products.
2.5 Vaccination
The main purpose of a vaccination program is to prevent losses from a specific disease. The
usual method is to provide immunity by exposure with a disease agent of lesser pathogenicity
than the field strains of the disease. The scheduling of a vaccination program should be such
that it allows the infection to occur at an age in the flock’s life that will cause the least economic
loss. Vaccination is a necessary stress placed on the birds; therefore, pay particular attention
to these flocks to reduce this stress.
It is not practical to recommend a specific vaccination program for poultry in all areas of the
world. Consult your local poultry veterinarian for a program that meets the disease challenge
and vaccine availability in your geographical area.
• Only vaccinate healthy birds.
• Minimize stress following vaccination by careful flock management.
• Read the label and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for vaccine reconstitution,
dilution and administration.
• Vaccine refrigerator should be located in a clean and secure area.
• Keep vaccines refrigerated at the manufacturer’s recommended temperature, avoiding
heat and exposure to direct sunlight.
• Do not use vaccines that are out of date.
• Use the full dosage, do not dilute the vaccines.
• Do not save opened bottles for use at a later date.
• All used and opened vaccine containers should be disposed of in a correct manner
following each vaccination to prevent the accidental spread of the virus.
• Shake the vaccine solution well both prior to administration and regularly during the
operation.
• Change needles every 500 doses to ensure that needles are kept sharp and to reduce
possible infection due to contaminations.
• One member of the vaccinating team should be responsible for supervising the procedure
to check that the vaccine is administered correctly. Any birds that do not receive the full
dose should be revaccinated.
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• The number of doses administered by the end of the day should be checked against the
number of doses taken to the farm.
• One qualified person should be responsible for cleaning and sterilizing the equipment at
the end of each job.
• To determine the quality of the vaccine administration, the flock should be monitored at
10 to 14 days post vaccination for neck sores, twisted heads and mortality or leg damage,
depending on the site of the administration.
• Monitor the health and antibody status of the flock on a routine basis.
Monitoring Salmonella
Environmental samples shall be collected from each GP flock every week and examined
bacteriologically for Salmonella.
Monitoring Mycoplasma
Unvaccinated GP flocks should be serologically tested for Mycoplasma gallisepticum
(Mg) and Mycoplasma Synoviae (Ms) every 3 weeks. Collect 30 blood samples from each
separate growing area, making sure samples are taken randomly throughout the house.
Testing Spiking Males
It is also advisable to test spiking males by PCR for MG/MS/LT within 7 days prior to
moving them to hen houses. Take tracheal or cleft palate swabs out of 30 males/air
space and make a pool for PCR testing. Do not move the males until test results come
back negative.
2.6 Medication
Prevention is by far the most economical and best method of disease control. Prevention is
best achieved by the implementation of an effective biosecurity program, including appropriate
vaccination. Diseases can, however, overcome these precautions and when they do, it is
important to obtain qualified advice as quickly as possible.
Drugs and antibiotics are not only expensive, but they can confuse the characteristics of a
disease, clouding a correct diagnosis. The use of the correct medication and the timing of
treatment can be crucial in combating a disease problem.
The preferred choice of a drug or antibiotic for some diseases may be ineffective if used for
the treatment of a different disease. For certain diseases there may not be an effective
treatment or it may not be economically feasible to treat. Therefore, always submit 6 to 8 birds
to a laboratory, so that sensitivity tests can be conducted to identify medication that will be
effective against the disease agent involved.
2.7 WATER
Water should be kept clean, cool, and free from pathogens. The total dissolved solids (or
salinity) in the water should not exceed 1,000 ppm (500 ppm maximum when used for human
consumption). It is recommended that the calcium and magnesium salts (hardness) should
be less than 20 ppm for Ca and less than 5 ppm for magnesium.
Chlorination may be used to sanitize a water supply. It helps to control bacteria and also helps
to prevent slime and algae build-up in water lines. A chlorine level of 3 ppm at the last drinker
level is recommended with a water pH below 7 to have all the chlorine in active free form.
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Effect of pH on Chlorine Sanitation

100
100 99 95
75
75
% Chlorine Active
50
30
25
4 1 0
0
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
ph Level
Around 70% of the well and drinking water worldwide is alkaline with a pH between 7.5 and
8.2. In the graph it indicates that the higher the pH the lower the efficiency of the chlorination
process. With a pH of 8 only 30% of the chlorine level is in a free active form. For this reason
based on the pH water needs to be acidified before chlorine treatment is done.
In practice this would mean installing a system first to reduce pH and then a second system
to add the chlorine to the water. With this procedure the level of chlorine added to the water
system can be maximum 3 ppm without losing efficiency.
Water analysis, at 3-month intervals, is good practice to determine the need for treatment.
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2.8 RODENT CONTROL

An effective rodent control program involves several measures that restrict shelter, food and
water from the rodents. Actions that need to be taken are as follows:
• Eliminate hiding places by removing all the rubbish from around the buildings.
• All vegetation needs to be kept trimmed.
• Make the entrance to the buildings as rodent proof as possible.
• Dispose of dead birds properly and promptly.
• Keep feed spillage to a minimum. Clean up feed spills immediately.
• Keep feed storage areas clean and store feed properly. Keep feed bags on pallets off the
floor.
• Maintain permanent bait stations with a fresh supply of rodenticides on a year-round
basis.
• Rotate the use of different baits on a regular program.
• Use traps where practical.
• An anti rodent barrier can be placed around the houses or around the perimeter of the
unit. They have shown to be very effective in keeping rodents out of the houses and
control several diseases like Salmonellas and Cholera.
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3. CALCULATING GP PACKAGE PLACEMENT NUMBERS BY LINE

1 GP unit is comprised of 1000 D line females and all the other 3 corresponding lines to
complete the package. The B line numbers are based on the production capacity of the D line.
If the D line is a line that is capable of higher production, then there will be a need for more B
line females to avoid a shortage of PS male numbers.
Standard Cobb 500/700 package per 1 UNIT (Fast or Slow Feathering)

Line Number % Mortality Selection % Number % Point
Day Old + Culling kept at of Chicks Mortality of Lay-
Chicks 6 weeks 24 wks.
D 1000 5% 100% 950 5% 900
C 442 5% *29% 124 90
B 290 5% 100% 275 5% 262
A 290 5% *14% 39 26
Totals 2022 1388 1278
*Lower amounts of males can be kept in A and C lines at selection time if the operation feels
comfortable with the lower numbers.
Standard Cobb 48 package per 1 UNIT (Slow Feathering)

Line Number % Mortality Selection % Number % Point
Day Old + Culling kept at of Chicks Mortality of Lay-
Chicks 6 weeks 24 wks.
D 1000 5% 100% 950 5% 900
C 442 5% *29% 124 90
B 340 5% 100% 323 5% 307
A 340 5% *14% 45 31
Totals 2122 1442 1328
*Lower amounts of males can be kept in A and C lines at selection time if the operation feels
comfortable with the lower numbers.
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4. bird densities in rearing and production

Housing space needs are determined by 4 parameters: Floor Space, Feeder space, litter
quality and air quality.
Both the A and C line males are housed normally at 10 males/m2 (1.0 ft2/bird) for the first 35 to
42 days during broilerization (ad lib feeding for maximum growth rate). After the males have
gone through the selection process, the density will drop to below 3.5 males/m2 (3.0 ft2/bird) to
give them enough space to develop properly and become a sufficiently dominant male by the
end of the rearing period.
During the rearing period, the B line females are normally placed between 4-5 females/m2
(2.1-2.6 ft2/bird) while the D line is housed between 5 and 7 females/m2 (1.5-2.1 ft2/bird).
In production, the B line is housed at 4-5 females /m2 (2.1-2.6 ft2/bird) and the D line between
5 and 6 females/m2 (1.5-1.75 ft2/bird).
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5. feeder space, grills and feeding programs in rearing

Use progressively more feeder space in rearing until 12 weeks of age and older, when the
requirement is 14-15 cm (5.5-6.0 inches) of feeder space per female with a chain/trough
system, and 10-12 females per round pan feeder or 12-14 females with oval pan feeder.
Progressively giving more feeder space will help to maintain uniformity, have always enough
feeding space and enough feed height in the chain or pan feeder. With 3 loops of chain
feeders, the chicks are fed with one loop up to 3-4 weeks of age. From 4 weeks to
approximately 10-12 weeks, two loops are used. After 10-12 weeks and until transfer time, all
3 loops are used. Apply the same concept for the males. After selection there will be
considerably less males present. Always calculate the needed space for the males. Excessive
feeding space is as damaging as a shortage of space and the proper development of males
will be affected, particularly uniformity. This will hurt mating activity and fertility in the production
period. For the males, at all ages post-selection, calculate 22-25 cm (8.6-9.4 in.) of feeder
space when using a trough feeder, or 8 males per pan when using a pan feeder.
5.1 grills and their openings

In rearing, some operations use grills with the chain feeder, others do not. Both have
advantages and disadvantages. In general, if grills are used on the feeder chains, they should
be installed at around 6 weeks of age. They will line up the birds, prevent accidents in corners,
help control feed spillage and give a slightly better uniformity in rearing.
In the production period, use a grill size of 45 mm (1 11/16 in.) wide by 60 mm (2 3/8 in.) in
height for the B and D female lines. However, the exception is that if the BW of the Cobb
500 B line female gets too heavy, the grill height could become limiting. In that case 10-20%
of the grills can be replaced after 35-40 wks of age with some wider and higher ones: 47 mm
(1 7/8 in.) wide and 65mm (2 9/16 in.) to 70 mm (2 3/4 in.) in height. Because production
persistency is not a strong point of the B line this wider grill is important so that all females
have proper access to the feed and keep on producing eggs.
5.2 feeding programs

There are many feeding programs that will work well for the females in rearing. The local
housing setup at an individual location and local legislation will define which program is
permitted and will work best. In houses with many pens and manual feed distribution, feeding
a limited ration daily (ED or Every Day) is best. In situations with no pens at all and long
houses, other programs may work better, as follows:
Week of age 1-2 3 4-12 13-18 18-21 >21

Program ED 5/2 4/3 5/2 6/1 ED
In this example, 5/2 means feeding the total weekly allotment divided equally over five days
during a calendar week, with no feed on two days during the week. 4/3 would be feeding the
total weekly amount equally divided over 4 days, with no feed on 3 days during the week, etc.
Normally the days no feed is being given are divided up within the week so that at no time two
consecutive days are off feed.
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Everyday Feeding Example

Example: week 3
Female Daily Feed allowance: 36 Grams (7.93 lbs/100 birds)
Sunday 36 grams (7.93 lbs/100 birds)

Monday 36 grams (7.93 lbs/100 birds)
Tuesday 36 grams (7.93 lbs/100 birds)
Wednesday 36 grams (7.93 lbs/100 birds)
Thursday 36 grams (7.93 lbs/100 birds)
Friday 36 grams (7.93 lbs/100 birds)
Saturday 36 grams (7.93 lbs/100 birds)
Every Other Day (EOD) Feeding Example

Example: week 5-6
On each fed day, double the daily amount
86 grams per feed day (19.0 lbs./100 birds)

Monday NO FEED
Tuesday 86 grams (19.0 lbs/100 birds)
Wednesday NO FEED
Friday NO FEED
Sunday NO FEED
Tuesday NO FEED
Thursday NO FEED
Saturday NO FEED
Feeding allowances increase either weekly or on regular feeding intervals (every 3 feedings
or every 4 feedings).
Feeding pattern repeats on a 2-week cycle
15 COBB
4/3 Feeding Example

Example: week 5-6
43 grams x 7 days / 4 days fed = 75 grams per feed day (16.5 lbs./100 birds)

Monday 75 grams (16.5 lbs/100 birds
Tuesday NO FEED
Thursday NO FEED
Saturday NO FEED
Tuesday NO FEED
Thursday NO FEED
Saturday NO FEED
Feeding allowances increase either weekly or on regular feeding intervals (i.e., 4/3 feeding
pattern is more consistent than an EOD feeding program).
5/2 Feeding Example

Example: week 15

Tuesday NO FEED
Friday NO FEED
Feed allowance increases the next week but follows the same feeding pattern
COBB 16
6/1 Feeding Example

Example: week 19

Tuesday NO FEED
Feed allowance increases the next week but follows the same feeding pattern
Many variations are possible with above feed program suggestions. Common sense is the
general rule when finding the best program. Observe the birds and determine from the flock
activity and temperament what would be best for them. In situations with very low feed
volumes in the second half of the rearing period, the 4/3 or 5/2 feeding program can be
continued for more time even up to 22-23 weeks of age.
In instances where water availability is temporarily limited, a good practice is to give the birds
in rearing 30 minutes of water and then start the feeding process. This will help reduce the
instances of early feed shock. Enough water intake before feeding will also mean that the
feeding program in use can be continued for a longer time.
Efforts during the rearing period to get good uniformity can be destroyed very quickly if there
are issues with feeding space or a too fast feed clean up time between 20 and 25 weeks of
age. In general, the flock should have a feed cleanup time of not less than 45 minutes to one
hour. Feed cleanup time under 30 minutes will induce aggressive bird behavior, overcrowding
at the feeders (especially from where the feed is entering the house in case chain feeders are
used), give more feather damage and cause more skin tears and scratches at the thighs. It will
also affect production persistency of the flocks and increase culling rates in females. Many
females could be damaged by other females during the frenzy of the feeding process. Very
fast feed clean up time is more likely with crumbled (and pelleted) feed compared to mash
feed. To extend feed cleanup time, never use pellets. Mash feed is the preferred choice for
GP and PS for rearing and production.
However to avoid possible salmonella and other bacterial contamination through the feed, an
intensive control of the chemical and bacterial quality of the ingredients should be implemented.
Additives with active Salmonella-inhibitory factors should be added to the pre-manufacturing
and actual feed milling processes to eliminate or at least reduce any possible source of
contamination in the raw ingredients and in the finished feed.
17 COBB
Feeding curve from 1-24 weeks of age in females:

• The feeding curve is based on the BW development following the standards.
• The actual BW at 21-22 weeks of age is important, but it is more important to know how
to attain that particular BW. In general, avoid a convex BW curve in rearing. For specifics,
please refer to feeding and weight supplements particular to each line.
• The lower the protein/energy content of the feed in pre-breeder or production-1 feed, the
more weekly feed increase can be allowed between 20-25 wks of age.
• Higher weekly feed increase from 16 wks of age to light stimulation, and continuous feed
increases to onset of production (5%) will help to improve peak production in flocks with
lower uniformity, however BW must be maintained close to the standard.
Feeding curve from 24-30 weeks of age:

• Many females tend to get too heavy after production start due to a too aggressive feeding
pattern. There are 2 programs of feeding to peak in the table below.
• The tendency is to use the alternative feeding program in GP and PS going to peak
production which means slower feed increases up to 35% daily production and then
increasing faster.
• This is especially true when higher protein levels are used (above 15.5%) and energy
levels above 2800 kcal/kg (1270 kcal/lb) and female BW becomes excessive going to
peak production.
• The use of crumbled (pelleted) feed will only reinforce this concept.
• Slowing down feed increases in order to give peak feed at peak production is another
option and is used when feed amounts at the onset of production (around 5%) are below
120 g per female per day.
Standard & Alternative feeding program going to peak production

Daily Egg Standard Increase Aternative Increase
Production g/female in Feed (g) g/female in Feed (g)
5% 120 3 120 3
15% 126 6 123 3
25% 132 6 126 3
35% 138 6 132 6
45% 144 6 140 8
55% 150 6 150 10
65% 165 15 165 15
COBB 18
Another practical feeding program is shown below for D and B lines
D lines
Production Increase in feed 2x per wk
1-20% 1g/3% production
>40% 1g/1% production
B lines
Production Increase in feed 2x per wk
>30% 1g/1% production
Feeding curve after peak production:

• Many feed reduction programs are acceptable, based on experience. It is important to
realize that if feed is to be withdrawn, the withdrawal must be initiated within 2 weeks after
peak, especially if BW has the tendency to increase fast after peak. Often females will
gain 200 g. extra BW in the 4 weeks after peak. Each 200 g in BW requires around 4 g
extra in feed for maintenance.
• Reducing the amount fed just after peak production could be based on:
1. BW gain up to peak and at peak production.
2. Actual peak production percent and egg weight.
3. Breast conformation and fat reserves (palpate females).
4. Feed clean up time (based on mash or crumbled feed).
5. Temperature fluctuations.
19 COBB
5.3 feeder and feeding concepts

There are presently 3 types of feeders used in the rearing and 2 types in the production
period. Every system has advantages and disadvantages. It is important to learn how to
work with the equipment so it does the best job. In the rearing period we have:
1. Traditional chain feeders
2. Round or oval pan feeders
3. Spin feeders
The traditional chain feeders must be managed by using dark out feeding, signal light
feeding or by distributing oats, wheat or broken corn in the litter 15 minutes before the
feeding starts. It is crucial for the house to be light proof so that all the birds are well
distributed over the whole house or pens, and stay in place when the lights go off and the
feed is being distributed. With fast feed cleanup times, quick bird distribution over the whole
length of the chain feeder will guarantee more uniform feed intake and maintain uniformity.
With chain feeders, calculate or observe how much feed is distributed over the chain length
and then adjust the height of the feed opening at the hopper so that the feed is evenly
distributed over the complete length of the feeder.
The round or oval pan feeders are less affected by the birds migrating to certain parts of the
house if the feed line is charged with feed that drops into each pan immediately when the
feeder first begins to run. However, feeding the first fill in the dark will enhance better feed
distribution over the whole length of the system, especially when low feed amounts are being
used.
The spin feeder is probably a more complex feeding system. Because the feed is distributed
over a large area on the floor, the litter must always be in a good condition and the pellet
must be hard enough in order not to fall apart during the delivery process. With spin feeders
dark out feeding will also help, but when the lights come on a minimum of 10 lux must be
used for the birds to see or find the small pellets in the litter. Try to keep the litter low enough
so that birds can search for and find the pellets. This activity will help keep the litter loose
and in good quality. If hawk (elongated and pointed) beaks develop during rearing when
using plastic pan feeders or spin feeders, a beak adjustment must be considered before the
birds go into production. This is especially important for the males.
COBB 20
Recommended digestible amino acid levels

based on amino acid/lysine ratios
Phase Pre-Starter/Starter Grower/Pre-Breeder Breeder Male
Age (days) 0-28 29-154 155+ 155+
(weeks) 0-4 5-22 23+ 23+
Lysine 100 100 100 100
Methionine 44 45 47 50
M+C 75 85 86 90
Tryptophan 22 25 25 29
Threonine 70 83 75 93
Arginine 105 100 90 100
Valine 67 75 80 75
Isoleucine 70 83 76 83
Leucine 118 130 112 120
Histidine 32 33 34 35
Phenylalanine 65 65 66 65
P+T 115 120 120 120
21 COBB
COBB
Recommended nutrient levels (% per 1000 kcal/kg metabolizable energy)
Phase Pre-Starter* Starter Grower Pre-Breeder** Breeder 1 Breeder 2 Male
Age (days) 0-14 0-28 29-126 127-154 155-280 281+ 155+
(weeks) 0-2 0-4 5-18 19-22 23-40 41+ 23+
Crude Protein 6.974 6.630 5.600 5.590 5.590 5.240 4.717
Calcium 0.349 0.358 0.383 0.524 1.048 1.119 0.326
Av. Phosphorus 0.157 0.160 0.156 0.157 0.157 0.139 0.163
Sodium 0.067 0.067 0.075 0.066 0.066 0.066 0.069
Chloride 0.067 0.067 0.075 0.066 0.066 0.066 0.069
Potassium 0.209 0.215 0.232 0.227 0.227 0.209 0.218
Linoleic Acid 0.436 0.436 0.430 0.419 0.454 0.349 -
Amino Acid Dig. Total Dig. Total Dig. Total Dig. Total Dig. Total Dig. Total Dig. Total
Lysine 0.391 0.436 0.322 0.359 0.190 0.230 0.220 0.260 0.230 0.262 0.225 0.255 0.152 0.175
Methionine 0.172 0.192 0.142 0.158 0.086 0.104 0.099 0.117 0.108 0.123 0.106 0.120 0.076 0.088
22
M+C 0.293 0.327 0.242 0.269 0.162 0.196 0.187 0.221 0.198 0.225 0.194 0.219 0.137 0.158
Tryptophan 0.086 0.096 0.071 0.079 0.048 0.058 0.055 0.065 0.058 0.066 0.056 0.064 0.044 0.051
Threonine 0.273 0.306 0.225 0.251 0.158 0.191 0.183 0.216 0.173 0.199 0.169 0.194 0.141 0.165
Arginine 0.411 0.458 0.338 0.377 0.190 0.230 0.220 0.260 0.207 0.236 0.203 0.230 0.152 0.175
Valine 0.262 0.292 0.216 0.241 0.143 0.173 0.165 0.195 0.184 0.210 0.180 0.204 0.114 0.131
Isoleucine 0.273 0.306 0.225 0.251 0.158 0.191 0.183 0.216 0.175 0.199 0.171 0.194 0.126 0.145
Leucine 0.461 0.515 0.380 0.424 0.247 0.299 0.286 0.338 0.258 0.293 0.252 0.286 0.182 0.210
Histidine 0.125 0.140 0.103 0.115 0.063 0.076 0.073 0.086 0.078 0.089 0.077 0.087 0.053 0.061
Phenylalanine 0.254 0.283 0.209 0.233 0.124 0.150 0.143 0.169 0.152 0.173 0.149 0.168 0.099 0.114
P+T 0.450 0.501 0.370 0.413 0.228 0.276 0.264 0.312 0.276 0.314 0.270 0.306 0.182 0.210
Example:To calculate Starter crude protein, assuming a 2796 kcal/kg metabolizable energy diet is 2.796 x 6.630 = 18.54 % crude protein.
*The use of a Pre-Starter feed may be necessary if the required bodyweights cannot be achieved with the Starter diet. In this case, the
Starter diet may be used from 15 to 28 days.
**The use of a Pre-Breeder is optional but recommended for those flocks that are underweight or below desired body composition prior
to light stimulation.
Example for a Breeder feeding program based on recommended nutrient levels
Phase Unit Pre-Starter* Starter Grower Pre-Breeder** Breeder 1 Breeder 2 Male
Age (days) 0-14 0-28 29-126 127-154 155-280 281+ 155+
(weeks) 0-2 0-4 5-18 19-22 23-40 41+ 23+
Metabolizable MJ/kg 12.00 11.70 10.80 11.55 11.55 11.50 11.50
Energy kcal/kg 2868 2796 2581 2761 2761 2749 2749
kcal/lb 1301 1268 1171 1252 1252 1247 1247
Crude Protein % 20.00 18.54 14.45 15.43 15.43 14.40 12.97
Calcium % 1.00 1.00 0.99 1.45 2.89 3.08 0.90
Av. Phosphorus % 0.45 0.45 0.40 0.43 0.43 0.38 0.45
Sodium*** % 0.18-0.20 0.18-0.20 0.18-0.20 0.15-0.20 0.15-0.20 0.15-0.20 0.15-0.20
Chloride*** % 0.18-0.24 0.18-0.24 0.18-0.24 0.15-0.24 0.15-0.24 0.15-0.24 0.15-0.24
Potassium % 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.63 0.63 0.57 0.60
Linoleic Acid % 1.25 1.22 1.11 1.16 1.25 0.96 -
Amino Acid Dig. Total Dig. Total Dig. Total Dig. Total Dig. Total Dig. Total Dig. Total
Lysine % 1.12 1.25 0.90 1.00 0.49 0.59 0.61 0.72 0.64 0.72 0.62 0.70 0.42 0.48
23
Methionine % 0.49 0.55 0.40 0.44 0.22 0.27 0.27 0.32 0.30 0.34 0.29 0.33 0.21 0.24
M+C % 0.84 0.94 0.68 0.75 0.42 0.51 0.52 0.61 0.55 0.62 0.53 0.60 0.38 0.43
Tryptophan % 0.25 0.28 0.20 0.22 0.12 0.15 0.15 0.18 0.16 0.18 0.15 0.18 0.12 0.14
Threonine % 0.78 0.88 0.63 0.70 0.41 0.49 0.51 0.60 0.48 0.55 0.46 0.53 0.39 0.45
Arginine % 1.18 1.31 0.95 1.05 0.49 0.59 0.61 0.72 0.57 0.65 0.56 0.63 0.42 0.48
Valine % 0.75 0.84 0.60 0.67 0.37 0.45 0.46 0.54 0.51 0.58 0.49 0.56 0.31 0.36
Isoleucine % 0.78 0.88 0.63 0.70 0.41 0.49 0.51 0.60 0.48 0.55 0.47 0.53 0.35 0.40
Leucine % 1.32 1.48 1.06 1.19 0.64 0.77 0.79 0.93 0.71 0.81 0.69 0.79 0.50 0.58
Histidine % 0.36 0.40 0.29 0.32 0.16 0.20 0.20 0.24 0.22 0.25 0.21 0.24 0.15 0.17
Phenylalanine % 0.73 0.81 0.58 0.65 0.32 0.39 0.39 0.47 0.42 0.48 0.41 0.46 0.27 0.31
P+T % 1.29 1.44 1.03 1.15 0.59 0.71 0.73 0.86 0.76 0.87 0.74 0.84 0.50 0.58
*The use of a Pre-Starter feed may be necessary if the required bodyweights cannot be achieved with the Starter diet.
In this case, the Starter diet may be used from 15 to 28 days.

**The use of a Pre-Breeder is optional but recommended for those flocks that are underweight or below desired body composition
prior to light stimulation.
***The concentrations may need to be adjusted depending on individual experiences and local climate.
COBB
Recommended supplementary levels of vitamins

and trace elements per metric ton basis
Phase Unit Pre-Starter/ Grower Pre-Breeder/
Starter Breeder
Age (days) 0-28 29-126 127+
(weeks) 0-4 5-18 19+
Vit. A (Maize Diets) MIU 10 10 12
Vit. A (Wheat Diets) MIU 11 11 13
Vit. D3 MIU 3 3 3
Vit. E KIU 75-80 45-50 50-100
Vit. K g 3 3 6
Thiamine g 2 2 2.5-3.5
Riboflavin g 5-8 5-7 10-16
Pantothenic Acid g 8-12 8-10 25
Niacin g 20-40 20-35 40
Pyridoxine g 3 3 6
Folic Acid g 1.5 1 4
Vit. B12 mg 25 20 35-40
Biotin (Maize Diets) mg 250 250 300
Biotin (Wheat Diets) mg 300 300 375
Vit. C g 25 25 50
Choline g 300-350 200-300 250-450
Manganese g 100 100 120
Zinc g 100 120 110
Iron g 20-50 20-50 40-55
Copper g 10-15 10-15 10-15
Iodine g 1.5 0.5 2
Selenium g 0.3 0.3 0.3
MIU = million international units; KIU = thousand international units; g = grams; mg = milligrams
Supplementary levels of vitamins and trace elements should always be reviewed to ensure total
levels do not exceed those set in local legislation.
COBB 24
6. water management
Water is an essential nutrient that impacts virtually all physiological functions. Water comprises
65-78% of the body composition of a bird depending on age. Factors including temperature,
relative humidity, diet composition and rate of body weight gain influence water intake. Good
water quality is vital to efficient GP production. Measurements of mineral and bacteriological
water quality are essential and need to be done on a yearly basis. The pH of the water
influences a lot of processes including the efficiencies of detergents and disinfectants.
6.1 DRINKERS
In rearing and production there should be a maximum of 70 birds per round drinker or 8 to 9
birds per nipple with a water volume of 100 cc per minute (pressure at 30-40 cm [11.8 – 15.75
inches] water column). Insufficient water pressure and water volume could affect uniformity in
rearing and production as well as production percent and egg weight uniformity.
The water level in the round drinkers should be at 1 cm (0.4 in.) in depth. The lip of the drinker
should be even with the backs of the females. Nipple lines should have a height that permits
the females to drink with a 45º angle.
The height of the drinkers in rearing normally does not need to be adjusted upwards after 12
weeks of age, as 80 to 90% of the frame size is normally attained by this age. In low uniformity
flocks the height must be based on the smaller birds in the flock. Many new nipple drinker
designs do not use an electric wire to prevent birds perching on the line but use 2 or 3 non-
electrified wires. In case of using electrical wires, use them on a limited program (especially
in rearing) and be sure the system is properly grounded so that stray current is eliminated.
6.2 water MANAGEMENT in rearing and production

Water management is an integral part of the rearing and production management. The male
lines are more prone to consume water and induce humid or wet litter conditions. Please refer
to the Cobb Breeder Management Guide for information on water management programs;
however bear in mind that good controls must be in place. Normally in rearing, a water
management program is put in place in most operations to keep the litter in good condition and
to help reduce any foot pad lesions that may occur with moist litter.
In the rearing period:

With water mangement Male Lines Female Lines
Water/Feed ratio 1.8 1.8-2.0
Water Volume 60 cc/min 60 cc/min
In the production period many operations prefer not to water restrict because no good controls
can be put in place. A normal water to feed ratio (in weight) should fall within the following
ranges for flocks in production:
In the production period:
Ad lib water supply Male Lines Female Lines
Water/Feed ratio 3.2- 3.8 2.2-2.8
Water Volume 80-100 cc/min 80-100 cc/min
25 COBB
It is up to the farm management to define if a too high water to feed ratio is affecting litter
and egg shell quality and if a water management program should be implemented. In open
sided production houses more water is consumed and male and female lines could operate
close to the higher ratios noted above. In solid side wall houses with good ventilation, the
ratios will be more towards the lower values. In the male lines, these ratios can still be too
high and a water management program should be followed. It is up to each company to
define how the water management should be conducted to keep the birds hydrated and the
litter in good condition. In general, ratios below 1.6 will result in reduced egg production
performance. As a practical means of checking if the water volume is not being too limited,
always check if all the females have soft crops 4-5 hours after feed has been consumed. If
a number of the females checked still have hard crops, the water management program is
not programmed properly and could hurt production potential by as much as 3% in peak
production. Calculating the water/feed ration at the end of the day is not the only parameter
of importance and can even be misleading. More important is that there is enough water
available for all the birds directly after feeding and that the crops are soft enough so that feed
can be properly digested.
COBB 26
7. selection procedures
7.1 value of performing male selection properly
The Cobb R&D geneticists strongly suggest that the males should be selected at 2.3 kg (5.1
lb) body weight to maximize the genetic progress of the males. In many GP operations the
selection weights are below the recommended weights, hurting broiler performance in BW,
FCR and especially physiological problems (leg issues for example). Below an idea of the
broiler growth potential that can be expected when using proper GP male selection weights.
Value of GP selections at an average of 2.3 kg live weight at broiler level.

• Increase in body weight in the broiler of 22 g at the same age.
• Improvement in feed conversion of 0.004 feed/kg gain which equals an improved weight
of ± 12 g. (30 g x 0.4).
• Increases in breast meat yield and eviscerated yield of 0.08% with improved weight.
This can give an added value of $346,000 / year in an operation with 1 million broilers / week.
Genetic BW improvement in broilers based on selection weight

30 110
25 26
23 100
21
23 96
BW Improvement
20
17 18 94
15 88
15 83
82
76
8 69
70
59 64
0 55
1870 1960 2050 2140 2230 2320 2410 2500
BW in grams
Broiler BW improvement in grams

% Genetic Maximum
27 COBB
7.2 male selection at 5-6 weeks of age

At 5-6 weeks do a visual selection in the B and D-Lines first because the number of females
kept is the base figure used in calculating male numbers. Remove only obvious culls in this
female selection. Examples might be: very slow feathering birds, sex errors, very small
birds, crossed beaks, cripples, or birds with any other type of deformity. The selection of
males is very subjective and every selection is phenotypically a bit different. These living
animals receive a lot of outside influences affecting their rate of weight gain, feathering,
skeletal growth rate, etc., between each flock that we select. For that reason use a few tools
to concentrate on the selection like:
• Reduced talking during the selection for better concentration.
• Sit down if possible. Getting tired after a few hours will affect the selection.
• Work independently from the weighing group.
• Have the selected birds walking in the small pen so you can observe their gait and see
if there are any curled toes present or use a small table where the selected males are
placed for observation.
• Record all the defects so a history is made of the reasons why males are being
eliminated.
FIGURE 4: Selection pen with small stools. FIGURES 5a and 5b: Separation of the small
Birds to be selected on the right side. Scales selection pens done with coops. The males
for weighing. In the back is the pen for the that have the proper body weight are placed
approved selected males. in the pen and are picked up by the selectors.
COBB 28
7.3 details of the selection procedure

Example of a Selection Pen Setup
5
1
4 3 2
1. Birds to be selected
2. Catching screen with scales
3. Good males above minimum BW
4. Reserve Birds
5. Good selected males
6. Cull males with defects or below minimum BW
1. Calculate the number of males to be selected. For A line males, the number kept should
be equal to 14% of the B line female number and for C line males keep a number equal
to 13% of the D line female number. These proportions are calculated to provide the
appropriate mating ratios at point-of-lay.
2. Weigh a sample (minimum 120 males) and record their individual weights on a “Selection
Worksheet”.
3. List the individual weights in descending order. The minimum cut-off selection weight for
the A line male falls at the lowest weight in the top 14% of the sample. The minimum
selection weight for the C Line males falls at the lowest weight in the top 29% of the
sample. However in both cases we have not allowed for the removal of birds with any
kind of defect in the top 14% or 29%. The amount of extra males added to the calculation
depends a lot on the local conditions and how many defects are expected. The calculation
below is an average of wheat and corn-based diets. (A slightly higher amount of defects
may be noted in wheat-based diets as compared to corn-based diets. Please consult with
the Cobb nutritional team if you have specific questions about the dietary needs of the
Cobb birds.)
• For the A males add 45% to the calculation: 14% x 1.45= 20% of the total males.
• For the C males add 40% to the calculation: 29% x 1.40 = 41% of the total males.
For example: A Line males – Count down the list of individual bodyweights from the heaviest
bird downwards, until 20% of the birds are included. The weight of the lightest bird in this
group is the minimum selection weight.
29 COBB
4. Assemble 3 pens, one for the low body weight males (culls), one for selected males and
one for males that fall below the main selection weight group down to 40g (0.9 lb.) below
the minimum selection weight. These birds can be used if the required number of birds
cannot be selected from the main selection weight group.
5. Weigh each bird individually. Every bird that is at or above the minimum selection weight
must then be evaluated by hand to ensure that it is in good condition, well fleshed, healthy
and free from defects. There are several ways to analyze a male. Normally look at toes
first. Then, in sequence, comes head and eyes, feathering, breast conformation, back
and at last the legs.
6. Examine the legs of each bird at or above the selection weight. The bird’s legs should be
held at the hock joint so that the hock can move freely. Hold the legs at the natural width
for the frame size of each individual animal. Holding the legs either too far apart or too
close together will make them appear crooked. Select only birds that have straight legs
and toes. Birds with leg defects will not be able to mate effectively. Other leg defects that
are unacceptable include discolored shanks, feathers on the shanks or toes, and short
thick shanks. Do not select birds that show any of these defects. Have a close look at
the selection report to have an idea what kind of defects to look for.
FIGURE 6: Good straight legs with no toe FIGURE 7: Valgus leg defect (Knock kneed
deformities. Observe that toe 1 is cut to ID or “X” legs). Legs are turning outwards.
A line.
FIGURE 8: Varus leg defect (Bow or “O” FIGURE 9: Twisted toe in left leg in which
legs). Legs are turning inwards. the central toe starts curling sharply
inwards.
COBB 30
FIGURE 10: A curled toe is one of the

defects that can be seen in males. They
can involve only the inside toe, central toe
or outside toe or it can be a combination of
all of them. Normally with good feed quality
ingredients the percentage should not be
more than 5-6% of all the males.
Considerably higher amounts can be found
in certain conditions that must be taken into
account when doing the selection.
There are many smaller defects in legs and toes that can be observed. Anything that is
out of the normal must be culled or at least put in the reserve pen to be evaluated again
if additional birds are needed.
7. Examine the breast of every bird that is free of leg defects. The birds must be well fleshed
with a straight keel. Breast defects that are unacceptable include breast blisters, short
breast, crooked keel bone, protruding keel bone and unbalanced breast amounts
between both sides of the keel bone.
8. Look at feathering of the males, in particular the slow feathering lines. If the final market
weight of the broilers is small at commercial level it is important to take feathering into
account during the selection process. Normally, any bare-backed feathered males should
be removed.
31 COBB
7.4 selection worksheet

Below is a selection report that is recommended for use at each selection. All the defects in
the birds that are handled by the selection crew should be noted and the percent of total
calculated. This is important to form a history of male defects observed. This information can
then be sent to the geneticists at CVI.
dd/mm/yyyy dd/mm/yyyy
Faults Observed During GPS Flock:
Male Selection Farm:
Line B= House:
Line D= Date
Selected:
Line A= Age:
#C select.
Line C= Line A % Line C %
Toes Internal
Central
Twisted
External
Total
• Bow legs (Varus)
• Knock Kneed (Valgus)
• Bad Feathering
• Scoliosis
• Colored shanks
• Colored feathers
• Hernia
• Cross beak
• Thick hocks
• Cianotic
• TD
• Sex errors
• Short-thick legs
• Split Wing
• Foot path lesions
• Bad breast
• Pendulous crop
• Any other obs.
Total amount of birds handled
BW of the Male Lines < Selection % Unif. >Selection % Unif.
BW - Line A
BW - Line C
GPD-A line
GPD-C line
COBB 32
8. MALE MANAGEMENT
8.1 feeding of the males
The Line A and Line C males are fed without any feed restriction (ad libitum) to a pre
determined selection body weight. This ad lib feeding program should promote the fastest
growth rate possible in order to select the best males under local feed and environmental
management conditions. The high growth rate (>57 g/d) will help express any potential
defects when present in the males and these males are removed from the flock during the
male selection process between 35 and 42 days of age. An exception to the high growth rate
is the C700sf male (roaster type). It will need 3 to 4 additional days to obtain the 2.3 kg average
weight before selection. This male is slower growing in the first few weeks. However this male
must also be pushed up in Grams per Day the best possible.
In order for the males to increase their weight as fast as possible, they need to have:
• Broiler type feed diets.
• Ad libitum feed at all time.
• Crumble and pelleted feed to maximize feed intake.
• A minimum of 16 hours of total light per day.
• A minimum of 20 lux light intensity to enhance activity of drinking and eating.
Other factors must be considered to obtain the proper growth:

• No beak conditioning at 5 days of age.
• Apply any individual vaccination before selection in the water or by spray to induce less
stress.
• Be aware that the coccidiosis vaccination at day old will reduce the growth in the early
weeks (immunity buildup). Coccidiostats in the feed for the first 5-6 weeks may be an
option.
A broiler type feed that can be formulated based on the local conditions or based on following
parameters:
Feed Starter Finisher

Period 0-3 weeks 4-6 weeks
Kcal - M.E./Kg (MJ/kg) 3050 (12.7) 3150 (13.2)
% Crude Protein 22.0 20.0
Lysine % 1.28 1.1
Methionine% 0.56 0.53
M + C% 0.95 0.90
Calcium 0.90 0.90
Av. Phosphorus % 0.45 0.45
Sodium % 0.20 0.17
Linoleic Acid % 1.25 1.25
33 COBB
The average body weight before selection should be 2.3 kg (5.1 lbs.) for the A and C lines for
all crosses. Even when the broilers in the local market are higher in BW, normally it is not
recommended to go much higher than these weights in order not to affect the reproduction
performance of the males. The final selection weight is important for the males but an even
more important factor is the fast growth rate of the males. The fast growth rate is the main
driver why some males present defects that are taken out during the selection process. Since
the heaviest males are retained after selection, the average body weight of the A line males
remaining will increase about 200 g (0.44 lb) and be around 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs). The C line males
should increase with about 100 g (0.22 lb) and be around 2.4 kg (5.3 lbs).
Because the males are fed ad libitum feed until the moment of selection, they can be
consuming up to 180-200 g of feed per day. After the selection, the selected males will go
immediately on the female grower feed with the amount reduced to maintain the recommended
weight profile during the grow-out period of rearing The idea is to slow the fast growth rate of
the males and have a more controlled growth to 20 weeks of age. Most of the fat and part of
the breast muscle must be metabolized in this period in order to have males in the proper
fleshing condition at mating time. If there has been some feed spillage during the grow out
and the males stay in the same pen, the BW increase can still be considerable in the week
after the selection due to males finding feed in the litter.
8.2 Male Body Weight Curve After Selection

After selection of the males a new body weight target needs to be made based on the average
weight from the selected males. Because the BW of the selected males is fairly high at
selection a progressive BW curve must be followed to have the males in the proper condition
at 20-22 weeks of age.
Example of the bodyweight and feeding curve for A and C males in rearing:
250
4000
3750
3500
3250 200
3000
2750
2500 150
2250
2000
1750
100
1500
1250
1000
750 50
500
250
0 0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20* 21 22
Week 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Growth/wk 50 50 60 60 60 60 70 70 80 80 90 90 100 110
COBB 34
The selected group of males just after selection will boost uniformity to between 90 and 100%
(±10%). However, the body weight increase is strongly reduced after selection and the males
which were the best genetically and therefore the heaviest will quickly lose uniformity and
possibly even weight.
Attention must be made to maintain the body weight of males after selection and to carefully
monitor the weight profile on a weekly basis to ensure continued growth and development. It
is important that the male body weights NOT decline in the period just after the selection or
stay constant without any BW increase for many weeks. Males could start consuming litter,
causing intestinal problems. This will induce loss of uniformity which most often affects the
best males in the flock. In the weeks following selection, grading must take place to split the
males in 3 pens (light, medium and heavy). Uniformity of the whole male population should
not fall below 80% up to 21-22 weeks of age (transfer).
The following tables outline suggestions for the BW of the males after selection and for the
production period:
Concept of BW gain of males from selection to 22 wks of age.
Age in Weekly Ideal Weekly Ideal

Weeks Gain BW Gain BW
Week A C
6 2500 2400
7 50 2550 50 2450
8 50 2600 50 2500
9 60 2660 60 2560
10 60 2720 60 2620
11 60 2780 60 2680
12 60 2840 60 2740
13 70 2910 70 2810
14 70 2980 70 2880
15 80 3060 80 2960
16 80 3140 80 3040
17 90 3230 90 3130
18 90 3320 90 3220
19 100 3420 100 3320
20 110 3530 110 3430
21 120 3650 120 3550
22* 220 3870 220 3770
* As of 22 weeks of age the BW is taken 4 hours after feed clean up. Important is to weigh
always at the same day and same hour of the day to have more reliable data.
35 COBB
Comparing BW curve Standards in Rearing A and C Males

4,500
4,000
3,500
3,000
2,500
2,000
1,500
Std A Curve with 2500 g > selection
1,000
Std C Curve with 2400 g > selection
500
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
Table with BW gain of the males in Weekly Ideal Weekly Ideal

the production period Gain BW Gain BW
These BW’s are suggestions and can A C
change based on dietary conditions 23 100 3970 100 3870
24 100 4070 100 3970
25 100 4170 100 4070
Progressive BW curve of weight gain 26 100 4270 90 4160
27 100 4370 70 4230
28 100 4470 70 4300
29 100 4570 60 4360
30 100 4670 50 4410
31 80 4750 30 4440
32 60 4810 15 4455
33 40 4850 15 4470
34 20 4870 15 4485
35 20 4890 15 4500
36 20 4910 15 4515
37 20 4930 15 4530
38 20 4950 15 4545
39 20 4970 15 4560
40 20 4990 15 4575
41 20 5010 15 4590
42 20 5030 15 4605
The “A” BW standard is based on the 43 20 5050 15 4620
A500 male. The A-MX male can be 44 20 5070 15 4635
kept 150 g below this BW. 45 20 5090 15 4650
46 20 5110 15 4665
47 20 5130 15 4680
48 20 5150 15 4695
49 20 5170 15 4710
50 20 5190 15 4725
51 20 5210 15 4740
52 20 5230 15 4755
53 20 5250 15 4770
54 20 5270 15 4785
55 20 5290 15 4800
56 20 5310 15 4815
All weights are taken 4 hours after feed 57 20 5330 15 4830
58 20 5350 15 4845
clean up time 59 20 5370 15 4860
60 20 5390 15 4875
COBB 36
These BW standards are only guide lines and not absolute numbers. It is important to define
at around 28 weeks of age the condition of the males and keep them on a more restrictive
feeding program when condition is good and wing resistance is strong. Maintaining male
uniformity is important for fertility persistency. The fertility of the C-line males tends to go down
more rapidly when their body weight exceeds 4800 grams.
The A500 and C500sf males need additional attention related to the light program. These
males can be light stimulated 3 to 4 weeks earlier than the females to have them more
sexually mature. The earlier light stimulation will stop further physical growth and start the
sexual development. This will control the BW size of the male in the production period.
Males that have been broilerized in rearing can be similar physically to PS males in peak
production due to this earlier light stimulation. This will have an effect on the BW curve of
the males in production, which can now be lower.
Good beak and good deep red coloring of the
comb, wattles and around the eyes. This is a
good sign that the male is normally in good
condition and sexually active.
Period between 6 and 20 wks: Based on the selection weight at 6 weeks of age the males
need to gain a certain amount of growth per week in order to reduce the excess breast
muscle and to have the proper body condition at 20-21 weeks of age.
The most important part of feeding the males is to maintain uniformity with enough condition
(breast muscle) while still controlling the body weight. Some male lines are more prone to
lose fast BW after selection due to the strong feed restriction. Take especially care with the
C500ff male.
There are also considerable feed amount differences between the male lines in the
production period as can be seen in the following table, showing approximate feed amounts
at 30 weeks of age.
37 COBB
Example of feed amount differences between the A and C lines in the production period
Age A500 & A-MX C500ff C500sf & C700sf
30 150-165 140-145 125-130
Kcal 420-462 392-406 350-364
If no spiking is done and fertility needs to be improved, one could separate the males that
have lost condition or are losing condition and give them 200-250 g of feed or more for 2-4
days in order for these males to recover. After 2-4 days these males need to be checked
and if the comb color has come back, they can be returned to the females. Only males that
are still sexually active but have lost condition should be recovered in this way.
• In C500ff males look at breast condition in particular. The breast needs to be in a good
V-shape to rounded condition and no keel bone should be easily felt. The cloaca is not
necessarily red but needs to be moist. This male can be very forceful towards females
in the production period. A good beak conditioning after the selection at 5-6 weeks of
age is important to reduce this active behavior.
• In C500sf males a dark red comb color in combination with rounded breast conformation
is important for active males. In this male, avoid V-shaped breast conformation. A
reddened cloaca will indicate constant activity. This male is not forceful towards female
hens but can be aggressive towards workers or visitors entering the house. A good
beak conditioning after the selection at 5-6 weeks of age is important to avoid hawk
beaks and resulting mating problems after 45 weeks of age.
• In A500 males, comb color and breast conformation is also important. All A500 males
need a rounded breast for maximum fertility and a red and humid cloaca.
COBB 38
9. FEMALE MANAGEMENT
The B and D line females are managed similar to the parent stock females in the rearing and
production period. Every line has a particular body weight curve but the curves are fairly
similar and feeding is done based on body weight development. What shows a larger
difference is how the females flesh out in the rearing period. This fact is important to bear in
mind. The management of females in rearing has only one objective, to have uniform sexual
development at 24 weeks of age. This will give maximum peak production and good
production persistency. For good sexual development the females need to integrate three
basic factors:
1. Frame size and body weight
2. Age
3. Breast and body reserves (fat)
The frame size plays an all-important role as 80 to 90% of the frame is developed in the first
12 weeks of the rearing period. For that reason any grading of females should be concentrated
in the first 12 weeks. The earlier the females can be graded the better the frame uniformity
will be. Starting grading on frame size at 12 weeks of age is too late, as the frame size has
been established. Another reason to start as early as possible is the fact that often GP flocks
are composed of several GGP flocks so uniformity is in general lower at day old compared to
PS flocks. Good frame and weight uniformity at 12 weeks of age will make managing the
second part of the rearing period much easier and often no or only a minimum additional
grading is needed. Fast feed distribution, adequate feeder space and avoiding excessive
restriction will maintain uniformity until the end of the rearing period.
Format and Fleshing Conditions
1 2 3 4 5
Condition needed by the females (>95%)
4 weeks format 3
12 weeks format 2-3
16 weeks format 2-3
20 weeks format 3-4
25-30 weeks format 4
At 12-16 and again at 20 weeks of age, it is important to evaluate the general condition of
the females. In the model here, 5 ranges are given but this can be increased to 7 ranges
based on the local need. The idea is that at each of the ages, more than 95% of the females
should be represented in their ideal fleshing condition. This condition will be different
between the different females lines at the same age. This fleshing condition can be
evaluated when the females are being weighed.
39 COBB
#1 Flock at 21 weeks #2 Flock at 21 weeks

Fleshing Score % Hens Fleshing Score % Hens
1 0 1 0
2 12 2 1
3 23 3 24
4 65 4 75
Total Score 88% Total Score 99%
3+4 3+4
#1 Flock with too many females in fleshing score #2 (12% of the flock). The females are only
in 88% prepared to receive the first light stimulation. Flock #2 has 99% in fleshing score 2+3
and is thus capable to give a higher peak production and better production persistency.
Fleshing evaluation should be done at 16 and 20-21 weeks of age and be related to peak
production performance.
4000 120
3750
3500
3250 100
3000
2750
80
2500
2250
2000 60
1750
1500
1250 40
1000
750 STD Dry BW 20
500
250 Std Feed intake
0 0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
The BW curve is more or less a straight line from 1 to 25 weeks of age. However, the feeding
curve is a clear concave or sigmoid curve or convex up to 5 weeks of age and concave from
6 to 20 weeks of age. It is essential for maximizing peak egg production and post-peak egg
persistency that the female bodyweight gain increases are adequate during the critical time
between 16 and 20 weeks of age. With the high breast meat yield characteristics of the Cobb
breeding hen, the female’s body composition at lighting is as important as the bird’s actual
bodyweight. This means that the hen must have adequate reserve and fleshing at the point
of light stimulation. Fleshing is gained quite easily during this time, but this is not the case with
building a fat reserve.
In order to obtain an adequate amount of fat deposition, the hen must have sufficient weight
gains (at least 34%) in this critical 16-20 week period.
Uniformity must preferably stay above 75% for consistently good production results. Normally
the flocks are graded by weight at 4 and 8 weeks and an additional grading at 12 weeks if
needed. A grading by fleshing could follow at 16 weeks of age. Important is to fine tune the
feeding program to get the smaller females close to the average body weight in a 4 week
recovery period.
COBB 40
Wk Normal BW Type There are many feeding

Low BW
programs that work well to
1 20 Pre-Starter 20 recover females on time and
2 38 18 Starter 38 18 guarantee a good frame size
3 41 3 Starter 41 3 at 12 weeks of age. This table
shows one of these programs
4 44 3 Starter 44 3
in which at 4 weeks the grading
5 46 2 Grower 53 9 produced a low BW pen. At 5
6 49 3 Grower 54 1 weeks of age, the birds are
7 52 3 Grower 55 1 being fed close to the amount
that the normal birds will be
8 55 3 Grower 55 0
eating at 8 weeks of age. This
9 59 4 Grower 63 8 means that the pen with the
10 61 2 Grower 64 1 smaller birds has enough time
11 62 1 Grower 64 0 and additional feed to recover
12 64 2 Grower 64 0 in body weight.
The advantage of this program is that the smaller females eat at 8 and then again at 12 weeks
of age the same amount of feed as the average females, and that after 12 weeks of age the
feed stimulation can be very similar between the 2 groups.
A procedure done in many companies is to use starter feed after the selection at 4 weeks of
age for the smaller birds for 2 weeks so they can recover without the need to eat a higher
volume of feed.
At 8 weeks of age both pens have the same feed amounts and a new grading delivers again
a pen with small birds. Now the process can repeat itself by projecting the feed amount at 12
weeks of age, as this is the amount that the smaller birds will need to eat after the grading to
recover on time. This type of program can be fine tuned but will guarantee that the small birds
are recovering and not staying behind or gaining above the standard if too much feed is given.
One aspect to take in consideration is the fact that the smaller birds are eating slower in
general than the middle or high end BW birds. This can be up to 45 minutes longer or more.
For this reason many companies grade these smaller birds into separate pens and leave the
recovered birds in these pens after 12 weeks of age so they do not drop in BW again due to
competition with the more aggressive birds.
If no grading is done in the rearing period and the uniformity is very low (<60%) at 14 weeks
of age, a grading by fleshing is recommended. All birds that are under-conditioned should be
separated and fed more feed so that recovery is obtained by 20 weeks of age when the light
program starts. In general a late recovery means a delay in the onset of lay and lower peak
production.
A general fleshing of the flock at 16 weeks of age, separating and recovering the under-
fleshed birds up to 20 weeks of age is an important tool in any flock with less than 90%
of the females in the ideal fleshing condition.
41 COBB
10. lighting
There are many light programs possible for the GP. General recommendations are contained
in the Cobb PS manual. Some additional comments:
1. The light program should start when the females are ready, normally between 21 and 22
weeks of age. Being ready means the appropriate body weight, age and body reserves.
2. The following body weight table is a general suggestion for the female bodyweights when
the light program should start.
Average all dry body weight of females at start of the light program (21-22 weeks of age).
Line D500 D48 B500 B-MXF
Dry BW-g 2400-2500 2380-2500 2540-2630 2550-2700
Dry BW-lb 5.29-5.51 5.24-5.51 5.60-5.80 5.60-5.95
*Light stimulation in the B-MXF line starts between 22-23 weeks (154-161 days) of age.
3. Always measure the amount of double yolks and prolapse cases in the first 4 weeks of
production to evaluate if there is any over stimulation of the females. For a normal flock
the amount of double yolks should peak in the third or fourth week of the production period
and be less than 3.5%. Line D48 will lay the most double yolk eggs when being over
stimulated and is considered the most susceptible line for excess light stimulation.
4. If there is any over stimulation it can be due to a too high body weight, too strong feed
stimulation after 20 weeks of age and/or too much increase in daylength or light intensity.
5. There is no need for the light intensity to go higher than 100 lux in the production period
and ideally the light distribution should be uniform with a maximum variation of 20-30%.
This means have enough light sources available between 2 to 4 rows, depending on
house setup conditions, in a 12-14 m (40-46 ft) wide house to have good uniform light
distribution. Do not try to solve floor egg issues with increasing light intensity. It can
reduce the problem a bit but never solve it.
COBB 42
Lighting programs that work well at GP level.

(All examples are for solid side or black curtain walls in production period)
Days Week Program 1 Program 2 Program 3

140 21st 8 8 8
147 22nd 11 14 12
154 23rd 12 14 12
161 24th 13 15 12
168 25th 14 15 14
175 26th 14 16 14
182 27th 15 16 14
189 28th Maximum 15 hrs Maximum 16 hrs 15
196 29th 15 16 15
203 30th 15 16 15
210 31st 15 16 15
Combinations of above programs are also possible. The response of the birds will indicate if
the program is working for you. In open sided or transparent curtain production houses, the
first light stimulation at transfer is to use natural day length for one week. Thereafter, one hour
day length is added each week to a maximum of 15 hours, or more as needed, depending on
the maximum natural day length. There is a clear tendency to use maximum 15 hours of total
light. In some operations 14 hours of total light can even work very well. The 16 hours of total
light are used more in transparent curtain houses or in open sided houses with more than 15
hours of natural light in part of the year.
The light program for the males is similar to the females but some male lines need greater light
stimulation in order to show enough sexual maturity at housing with the females. These lines
are the A500 and the C500sf male. Maintain a proper breast conformation during rearing for
proper response to light stimulation, as the required weight control during this period could
delay sexual maturity. Both male lines are normally light stimulated 3-4 weeks before the
females. The light intensity is increased from 5-10 lux up to 40-60 lux, but the males stay on
8 hours of total light in their dark out housing facilities. The time of light stimulation can be
adjusted based on the BW curve attained in rearing. All the other males do not need any
earlier light stimulation and can follow the same lighting program as the females. In some
locations, males are raised in open-sided houses while the females are in dark-out facilities.
This can be done when adequate ventilation in the male house becomes a problem in hot
weather.
43 COBB
11. nest types and concepts

There are 3 types of nests being used presently:
1. Hand gathering nest (calculate 4 hens per nest entrance).
2. Mechanical individual nest (calculate 5.5 hens per nest entrance).
3. Mechanical community nest (calculate 58-66 hens per nest entrance).
11.1 manual egg gathering

For manual hand gathering nests there are some important key points to have a minimum
amount of floor eggs. These are:
• Have a large enough nest (30x30 cm or 12x12 inches) so that even heavy hens or the B
line females have no problem getting into the nests. If most females are sitting down in
the nest looking inwards, the nest is not considered ideal by the hens and there could be
more floor eggs. Hens enter the nest head first but will turn around and then sit down.
The nest units with 30 cm wide openings come with 5 openings on each side of the nests,
2 stories high.
• On the bottom nest row, supply 3 perches for easy access and on the top row have 2
perches.
• Have a minimum of 15 cm (6 inches) vertical deepness in the nest so that the hen is sitting
comfortable in the nest. Hens seem to prefer a deeper nest to a more shallow one.
• Add only sufficient nest material so that the nest is for 1/3 filled. Never overfill the nests.
The hens will kick the litter out or simply do not want to go into the nests.
• Make the concave shape in the litter material when adding litter so that the hens are
attracted to the nests.
• Place the nest units on a wooden or metal frame, blocks or stones low to the floor or litter
so hens will find the nest easily and floor eggs are controlled to a minimum. Keep the
nests low up to peak production and then raise the nests gradually.
• Close nests at night to reduce birds sleeping in the nest units and to reduce dirty eggs
and dirty litter in the nest boxes.
FIGURE 11: Wide and deep enough nest FIGURE 12: Deep nest with hens feeling
with concave nest material. comfortable inside.
COBB 44
11.2 mechanical nest systems

Worldwide there is a tendency to mechanize egg gathering. The egg collection in the house
can be automated with individual or community nests. The individual mechanical nest system
is more common with the U.S. house setup of 2/3 slats with 1/3 scratch area in the center of
the house. In this setup there is 1 line of mechanical nests on each of the slats, with 2 lines
of mechanical nests per house.
The community nest system is another option for mechanical collection of eggs. In this setup,
there is only 1 line of mechanical nests placed in the central part of the house with slats going
out from both sides of the nests. When automating egg gathering, several companies are
opting for the community nest. There are, however, very important issues in the house setup
that need to be addressed to avoid problems with floor eggs. Mainly, the birds need to become
comfortable on the slats, so they spend enough time there to become familiar with the nest
system.
This is achieved by using:

1. A ratio of 50-60% floor area to 50-40% slat area.
• With a 12 meter (40 ft.) wide house, slats need to extend approximately between
2.0-2.7 m (6.5-9 ft.) from the front of the nest on each side.
• With a 13 or 14 m. (44-46 ft.) wide house, slats need to extend approximately 2.7
meters (9 ft.) from the from of the nest on each side.
2. Reduce the slat slope with the wider slats or make it almost flat.
3. Most of the female feeder lines need to be on the slats.
• When you have 2 m wide slats place the waterline in front of the nest and then install
1 female feeding line further out on the slats.
• When using 2.7 m (9 f) wide slats or more it is possible to have 2 female feeding lines
on the slats (complete loop).
• With very high female bird densities, also keep one female feeding line in the scratch
area.
12 m (40 ft.) wide house showing half the house:

Comments: Step-up from floor
(slat height) max. 45 cm (18 in).
Chain feeders are placed on the
slats with the support that keeps
the line straight. In case of oval
pan feeders, only 2 lines are
90 needed. They can go on the
65
95
slats but should be winchable in
90 order to be raised after feed is
consumed or with one line on
the slats and one line in the litter
275 cm (9 ft.) 250 cm (8.2 ft.) area. Slats should have the least
slope possible.
45 COBB
4. Never put waterlines in the scratch area. Recommended distances from the nest are:
nest to water line, 40-70 cm (16-28 inches); water line to feeder line, 60-70 cm (24-28
inches).
5. Lights should be placed just outside the slat area (above the scratch area) so that they
do not give a shadow of the slats in the scratch area.
• The scratch area should have enough light intensity (70-100 lux), with uniform light
distribution.
• The lights should be located to allow 2-4 lux to reach the back of the nest at the nest
opening.
• No extra lights inside or directly above the nest are needed.
6. No air should go through the nest and cause drafts (important when using cross
ventilation).
FIGURE 13: Community nest with front FIGURE 14: 17 m (55 ft.) wide house with
cover opened to inspect the hens. 6.7 females/m2 (1.6 ft2/hen). Average floor
egg = <1%.
When using the mechanical community nest, the following guidelines are recommended:
There are 2 nest types in general use; 40-41 cm (16 inches) deep or 45-46 cm (18 inches)
deep by 240 cm (95 inches) long. Each nest unit has 4 entrance holes, 2 on each side.
• With the 40-41 cm deep nest, calculate ± 230 females per nest unit (4 holes) or 58
females per hole or 96 females per meter house length (48 females on each side of the
nest per 1 m house length).
• With the 45-46 cm deep nest calculate ±265 females per nest unit (4 holes) or 66 females
per hole or 110 females per meter house length (55 females on each side of the nest per
1 m house length). This deeper nest system can be used with wider houses.
• Use the collection belts in the first week of production in the afternoon and then slowly
bring the collection time to the morning.
COBB 46
11.3 Egg Collection Criteria

Average egg collection classification differences (%) between the different lines to 60 wks of age.
Average Nest Floor Cracked Broken Double Small

D500ff 94.1 1.25 1.48 0.84 1.30 1.03
D48sf 94.1 1.49 1.36 0.74 0.98 1.33
D500sf 93.6 2.75 1.59 0.83 0.78 0.45
B500 92.5 2.25 1.50 1.13 1.16 1.46
B-MXF 91.0 2.30 1.40 1.10 1.35 2.85
Above figures are not absolute data but just a real example indicating the tendencies or
differences between the lines. Line D500sf has in general more floor eggs, female B-MXF
in general the smallest egg size, etc.
47 COBB
12. NOTES
COBB 48
NOTES
49 COBB
NOTES
COBB 50
cobb-vantress.com
L-1080-04
February 1, 2014

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COBB Grandparent Management Guide

©2011 Cobb-Vantress, Inc.

1. identifying lines and crosses

• The A line is the male of the male line. GP AxB CxD

The A x B cross will produce the AB

Four commercial female PS lines are available:

Two commercial male PS lines are available:

1.2 Toe Identification

Figure 1: Double door between pens of In Figure 2 the toe identification is

AxB Lines at all Farms CxD Lines Multi Line Farms

1.3 SEX ERRORS AND ID MISTAKES

1.4 IDENTIFYING FAST AND SLOW FEATHERING LINES

FIGURE 3: Slow feathering line tail feather

2.2 Grand Parent Breeder Farm Disinfection Schedule

Disinfection: Step by step

2.4 Fumigation Methods

This would require:

Heating Solid Paraformaldehyde

Effect of pH on Chlorine Sanitation

2.8 RODENT CONTROL

3. CALCULATING GP PACKAGE PLACEMENT NUMBERS BY LINE

Standard Cobb 500/700 package per 1 UNIT (Fast or Slow Feathering)

Standard Cobb 48 package per 1 UNIT (Slow Feathering)

4. bird densities in rearing and production

5. feeder space, grills and feeding programs in rearing

5.1 grills and their openings

5.2 feeding programs

Week of age 1-2 3 4-12 13-18 18-21 >21

Everyday Feeding Example

Sunday 36 grams (7.93 lbs/100 birds)

Every Other Day (EOD) Feeding Example

Sunday 86 grams (19.0 lbs/100 birds)

4/3 Feeding Example

Sunday 75 grams (16.5 lbs/100 birds)

5/2 Feeding Example

Sunday 98 grams (21.6 lbs/100 birds)

6/1 Feeding Example

Sunday 92 grams (23.6 lbs/100 birds)

Feeding curve from 1-24 weeks of age in females:

Feeding curve from 24-30 weeks of age:

Standard & Alternative feeding program going to peak production

Another practical feeding program is shown below for D and B lines

Feeding curve after peak production:

5.3 feeder and feeding concepts

Recommended digestible amino acid levels

In this case, the Starter diet may be used from 15 to 28 days.

Recommended supplementary levels of vitamins

6.2 water MANAGEMENT in rearing and production

In the rearing period:

Value of GP selections at an average of 2.3 kg live weight at broiler level.

Genetic BW improvement in broilers based on selection weight

Broiler BW improvement in grams

7.2 male selection at 5-6 weeks of age

7.3 details of the selection procedure

FIGURE 10: A curled toe is one of the

7.4 selection worksheet

Other factors must be considered to obtain the proper growth:

Feed Starter Finisher

8.2 Male Body Weight Curve After Selection

Growth/wk 50 50 60 60 60 60 70 70 80 80 90 90 100 110