Análise da influência das características construtivas das instalações avícolas sobre o bem-estar dos frangos de corte na província de Maputo

Abstract

The present work aimed to consolidate the theoretical and practical knowledge acquired throughout the training in Animal Science and Technology, and to develop technical skills in the management of broiler chickens. The internship took place at the farm of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Eduardo Mondlane University, where 3 batches of Ross® breed chickens were monitored, each composed of 200 birds per batch. During the internship, activities such as facility hygiene, feed and sanitary management, environmental control, and evaluation of zootechnical performance were carried out. The parameters analyzed included average feed intake (AFI), average weight gain (AWG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), viability (V), uniformity (U), and productive efficiency index (PEI). The results showed a PEI of 375.69 in the first batch, 354.16 in the second, and 347.85 in the third. Despite good performance, significant losses were recorded due to thermal stress and predator attacks. After the internship, a case study was developed with the objective of analyzing the influence of the constructive characteristics of poultry facilities on the welfare of broiler chickens in the district of Marracuene, Maputo province. The investigation involved surveys, direct observations and structural measurements in 14 sheds, of which 12 belonged to small producers and 2 to medium producers. The data collected covered the physical characteristics of the poultry houses, such as the orientation of the poultry houses, the roofing materials, the presence of thermal screens and skylights, the material of the doors, the existence of drainage holes for liquid waste and the constructive dimensions (length, width, height of the eaves, eaves, side nets, wall and floor). The functional characteristics included the presence and condition of footbaths, the material and color of the curtains, and the type of ventilation system. Environmental data were also collected regarding the incidence of solar radiation and the entry of rainwater into the poultry houses, as well as safety data related to the entry of predators and vectors. Finally, zootechnical data were collected regarding stocking density. The methodology applied was based on descriptive statistics, including absolute and relative frequencies, as well as comparative analysis with specialized literature. Based on the study, it was concluded that the constructive characteristics of the facilities significantly influence animal welfare. When inadequate, they cause negative effects, such as thermal discomfort, higher mortality, and greater exposure to pathogens. On the other hand, when designed according to technical recommendations, they ensure thermal comfort, reduce stress, and improve production indices.