Big Dutchman USA is the sponsor of this special edition of EGG-NEWS that incorporates a review of USDA data on cage-free production and industry statistics covering December 2024.
Big Dutchman NATURA® Visio--a true open aviary system
The NATURA® Visio is a state-of-the-art installation designed to optimize flock production and to achieve the highest proportion of saleable eggs. The NATURA® Visio aviary system can be retrofitted to existing houses where height restrictions preclude alternatives. The configuration is compatible with multi-level structures. The low profile provides visibility of the flock facilitating management.
NATURA Visio two-tier configuration |
The NATURA® Visio comprises two tiers each equipped with feeding, drinkers, and nests. The design incorporates a “step” concept encouraging vertical movement of hens between the upper and lower tiers reducing competition and contributing to an even distribution of the flock within the house. The design incorporates Big Dutchman durability of construction with the floors of the system galvanized with a zinc-aluminum coating to ensure an extended operating life.
Shell downgrades are reduced to a minimum by the design and location of nests on both tiers. Nests are staggered along the length of the installation and hens have access from either side of the system providing them with a comfortable laying environment. Eggs roll from the nests onto two eight-inch-wide belts of polypropylene or woven material to move eggs gently to a single elevator. Eggs laid on the system floor roll directly onto the egg belts without entering the nest, minimizing collisions with birds and other eggs to enhance egg quality. Nest pads fitted with soft fingers reduce fecal soiling and damage to shells. The floor of the nest tilts through 90º to restrict entry during the dark phase of each day. The location of nests and their design reduces the area of belt covers and avoids the need for hens to step up when entering nests.
NATURA Visio twin-belt egg collection |
The design and location of perches is based on observations of hen behavior and contributes to optimal comfort and air circulation. The position of the approach perches encourages hens to face towards the aisles allowing manure to be collected on belts.
Each tier is equipped with a Champion™ chain feeding system using a specially designed wide trough equipped with lips to reduce wastage. An optional feeding circuit can be installed above the upper tier as required. Hens have access to drinker lines on each tier equipped with 360º nipples and incorporating drip cups.
The NATURA® Visio promotes movement of the flock among the tiers and the litter area allowing natural behaviors to reduce stress, contributing to optimal egg production. Uniform levels of light above the aisle and both the in-system and under-system lighting are compatible with the needs of the flock. Unrestricted airflow contributes to even flock distribution and acceptable moisture content and texture of litter.
NATURA Visio design promotes even distribution of flock among tiers and aisles |
The NATURA® Visio aviary system offers the potential for maximum return on investment through harmonizing design with the behavioral requirements and genetic potential of the flock.
NATURA Viseo dimensions |
For additional information, contact your regional sales representative or an authorized Big Dutchman distributor. To find the contact details for your area please visit
www.bigdutchmanusa.com/en/egg-production/contact/.