The performance of a laying flock is predicated on achieving uniform maturity, body weight, and reproductive development consistent with genetic potential. Eggs lost at the beginning of a cycle can never be made up. Attaining an early onset in production, a rapid increase in case weight, a high peak, and persistence are all dependent on the development of flocks from day old through rearing and post-transfer training.

Big Dutchman has acquired experience in the design and manufacture of rearing systems for cage-free production based on the physiological needs of pullets. The NATURA® Filia rearing system incorporates the recommendations of research institutes and producers to apply a range of operational procedures relating to feeding, vaccination, and handling that allow optimal musculoskeletal development and flock welfare.

Big Dutchman NATURA® Filia Rearing System

• Flocks are placed in the lower of the two tiers of the NATURA® Filia system for the brooding phase that extends to three weeks. This allows for optimal visibility, temperature control, and feed intake.

• At 3 to 4 weeks of age, consistent with the management schedule, flocks are vaccinated and are divided evenly between the two tiers.

• At 5 to 6 weeks, doors are opened, allowing pullets to access the aisles and to move between tiers using the ramps, bridges, and adjustable perches incorporated into the system. Both lateral and vertical movement in the NATURA® Filia installation is critical to developing balance and muscle development to allow flocks to adapt to compatible Big Dutchman NATURA® Step or Visio laying systems. Each of the components of the NATURA® Filia is based on a scientific evaluation of the needs of pullets and contributes to uniformity and maturity at the time of transfer, usually at 16 to 17 weeks of age. Features of the NATURA® Filia include:

Construction

The NATURA® Filia incorporates durable construction with floors fabricated from zinc-aluminum coated wire, resistant to corrosion. Support structures are designed and engineered for stability and are compatible with houses over 300 feet. Sliding doors are designed for ease of opening for chick placement and flock transfer.

Sliding doors facilitate chick placement, vaccination and transfer

Moveable partitions are installed at 5-foot intervals on both tiers to confine chicks to smaller groups during the brooding and early rearing phases. The partitions facilitate vaccination or other procedures requiring individual handling of birds. As the flock ages, partitions can be opened to create larger groups within the tier.

Interior view of lower tier during brooding showing moveable partition (rear) and perches above feeder trough and drinker line

Flock Comfort and Development

The NATURA® Filia system incorporates bridges from the lower tier to the floor, ramps between the two tiers, and step platforms. Perches with a patented design are positioned to encourage the flock to face the aisle, allowing manure to be collected on belts. This reduces fecal accumulation along the aisles and reduces the production of ammonia in litter.

Feeders and Drinkers

Each tier is equipped with a proven Big Dutchman chain circuit designed to prevent spillage. Guards are installed in the feed trough during the brooding period.

Perches are installed above the drinker lines and feed circuits to limit soiling.

Drinker lines comprising nipples with drip cups can be raised consistently with the growth of the flock.

Bridges encourage chicks to descend to litter from brooding tier   Ramps allow pullets to transit between tiers   Patented perch design and placement orients pullets to face the aisle   Nipple drinkers with drip cups are located on each tier   Feeder trough fitted with removable anti-waste insert during brooding

Lighting

A range of lighting installations is available including LED fixtures along the aisles and within the system. Compatibility in design between the NATURA® Filia rearing system and the Big Dutchman NATURA® Step and Visio laying installations ensures a harmonious transition after transfer. This reduces stress and excitability in the flock which is deleterious to subsequent production. The lighting system is dimmable and can provide an artificial sunset to encourage the flock to return to the perches during the dark periods.

Strip LED  lighting in each tier, together with aisle installations are dimmable and can be configured for an artificial sunset

Ventilation

Big Dutchman provides compatible ventilation installations including fans, inlets, controllers, and alarms. The NATURA® Filia system is available with an optional air duct over the manure belt to reduce the moisture content of litter and hence production of ammonia.

Dimensions

NATURA® Filia systems are available in two widths to maximize capacity conforming to house dimensions, whether a new installation or a retrofit. The model 1800 has a width of 74 inches. The model 2200 is 88 inches in width. Both systems are 9 feet in height from the floor to the top of the second tier.

Dimensions of NATURA(R) Filia Model 1800   Dimensions of NATURA(R) Filia Model 2200.

Additional information on the NATURA® Filia system is available by clicking on the Big Dutchman logo at the top of this article. Design projections for either retrofits or new houses are available from regional sales representatives or an authorized Big Dutchman distributor.