(i) Define the term brooder as used in poultry production. [2 marks] (ii) List…

Explanation

a)(i) Definition of a brooder: A brooder is a device in which newly hatched chicks are tended by the provision of heat until they develop enough feathers.

(ii) Characteristics of a good layer: 
-Large well developed combs and wattles. 
-Bright red and smooth comb and wattles. 
-Bright eyes. 
-Moist, wide vent/cloaca. 
-Thin and pliable pubic bones. 
-Expanded, soft and pliable abdomen. 
-Absence of broodiness. 
-Soft loose skin.
– Must have short clutch.
– Absence of cannibalistic tendencies. 
-Bleached shank/beak. 
-Glossy plumage. 
-Short beak. 
-Broad and square head. 

(b) Reasons for providing suitable housing for livestock are to: 
-Protect animals from rain/cold weather conditions. 
-Protect animals from the direct rays of sunlight. 
-Restrict the movement of the animals. 
-Protect the flock from theft. 
-Facilitate management through grouping of livestock according to age and purpose.
 – Protect the young ones from danger/predator. 
– Prevent indiscriminate mating. 
– Ensure maximum utilization of feed and water. 
– Facilitate close observation/monitoring/veterinary care. 
– Prevent damage of cultivated crops. 
– Prevent them from contracting diseases from outside. 
– Prevent them from pest infestations.
 – Facilitate accurate record keeping. 

(c) Scientific names of fish species commonly stocked in a pond :
-Clarias spp. 
-Chrysichtys nigrodigitatus 
– Gymnarchus niloticus 
-Tilapia spp. 
-Lates nilotica 
– Gyprinus carpio 
-Heterotis niloticus 
-Labeo spp, 
-Heterobranclues spp.
– Hypothmichitys spp. 

(d) Qualities of a good pasture  
-Ability to regenerate fast after being browsed. 
– Ability to withstand trampling effects of the grazing animals. 
– Highly palatable. 
– High in nutrient value. 
– Ability to withstand extremes of climatic conditions. 
– Moderate moisture content/succulent. 
-High leaf to stem ratio.