Theory question 108
Poultry Production(a)(i) Define the term culling in poultry production. (ii) Mention three benefits derived from culling.
(b) State four ways of preventing diseases in a sheep flock.
(c) Discuss the practice of paddocking as a way of improving rangeland.
(d) State three fishery regulations.
Show the model answer
(a)(i) Culling is the removal of unproductive, sick, old or weak birds from the flock.
(ii) Any three: reduces feed cost; raises overall productivity of the flock; prevents spread of disease; makes room for better birds; brings in income from sale of culled birds.
(b) Any four: vaccination; regular deworming and dipping/spraying; clean, well-ventilated housing; isolating sick animals; rotational grazing; balanced feeding and clean water; quarantine of new animals.
(c) The range is fenced into sections (paddocks) which are grazed in turn; while one is grazed the others rest and regrow; this prevents overgrazing, breaks parasite cycles, allows even grazing and keeps the pasture productive.
(d) Any three: use of nets with a minimum mesh size; ban on poisons and explosives for fishing; closed seasons; ban on catching undersized fish; licensing of fishermen; restricted fishing areas.
For paddocking explain how resting sections improves the pasture.