Column: Behaviour in combination with layout is key in broiler breeding

Late January 2024 I had the pleasure of attending the impressive IPPE exhibition in Atlanta, USA. Amid the bustling atmosphere, I engaged in discussions with numerous individuals from the broiler breeder industry originating from various countries. One recurring topic that garnered significant attention was the notable decline in the average hatchability of breeder eggs in the US. Average hatch between 2020 and 2023 declined from approximately 82.5% to around 80%. Of particular concern was the