Future strategies for broiler breeders: an international perspective

A series of factors have contributed to the progressive diversification of reproduction strategies to produce day-old chicks in distinct geographical locations. Some of these strategies are adaptable by simple technology transfer and education (e.g. darkout housing to control photoperiod, appropriate feeding and management of breeder flocks) while others require continued efforts from geneticists and physiologists to develop new genetic lines and tools (e.g. selection of breeds adapted for hot climates and gene banking). Reproduction strategies in broiler breeders will also probably continue to diversify depending on economic and social components, including labour and feed costs as well as local regulations. As a consequence, the final choice between natural mating or artificial insemination (for caged or floored breeders) is itself multifactorial and may lead to the selection of parent stock lines optimised for one or the other strategy, according to country and living standards. Finally, the diversity in consumer demand for poultry will itself favour the emergence of specialised birds and management techniques directly adapted to local needs.