Automatic Broiler Cage Systems: Manual Bird Harvesting Process Automatic broiler cage systems are widely used in modern poultry farming to optimize space, improve hygiene, and enhance bird welfare. While automation plays a significant role in feeding, watering, and environmental control, manual bird harvesting remains a critical step in the production cycle. This process ensures careful handling of broilers to minimize stress and maintain meat quality. Preparation for Harvesting Before harvesting, farmers must prepare the environment to ensure efficiency and bird welfare. Feed is typically withdrawn 8–12 hours prior to harvesting to reduce digestive tract contents, which helps maintain carcass cleanliness during processing. Water, however, remains available to prevent dehydration. The harvesting team should wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and clean clothing, to maintain hygiene standards. Manual Harvesting Process 1. Bird Collection – Workers enter the cage system and gently remove broilers one by one. Proper handling is crucial to avoid injuries or stress. Birds are typically held by both legs to distribute weight evenly and prevent struggling. 2. Loading into Transport Modules – Harvested birds are placed into specially designed transport crates or modules. These containers ensure adequate ventilation and minimize overcrowding, reducing the risk of injury or suffocation during transit. 3. Monitoring Bird Welfare – Throughout the process, workers must monitor the birds for signs of distress or overheating. Calm, efficient movements help maintain low stress levels, which is essential for meat quality. Post-Harvesting Procedures After loading, the transport modules are moved to the processing facility. The cages and surrounding areas should be cleaned and disinfected immediately to prevent disease transmission for the next flock. Proper waste disposal and sanitation protocols are followed to maintain biosecurity. Advantages of Manual Harvesting - Better Control: Manual harvesting allows workers to handle birds carefully, reducing bruising or fractures. - Flexibility: Unlike fully automated systems, manual harvesting can adapt to different cage designs and bird sizes. - Cost-Effectiveness: For small to medium-sized farms, manual harvesting may be more economical than investing in automated catching machines. Challenges - Labor Intensity: Manual harvesting requires skilled labor to ensure efficiency and bird welfare. - Time-Consuming: Compared to automated systems, the process is slower, which may affect large-scale operations. Conclusion Manual bird harvesting in automatic broiler cage systems remains a vital practice, balancing efficiency with animal welfare. Proper training, careful handling, and adherence to hygiene standards ensure high-quality poultry production while maintaining ethical farming practices.