Abstract

In Serbia, there are 4 to 6 genotypes of hens used for producing eggs for consumption, including hybrid Tetra SL. The proper rearing of commercial flocks is critical for timely laying, intensity of laying capacity, number of laid eggs, and period of hen usage. The aim of this paper is to analyze the results of rearing the offspring of hybrid Tetra SL, from one-day-old chickens to eighteen-week-olds, with a review of the conditions to which domestic producers must adjust in order to meet the European Union standards for laying hens breeding systems. At the beginning of rearing period, 9500 heads were put into two objects, totaling 19000 one-day-old chickens. A completely identical rearing technology was applied in these two identical objects. The chickens were of the same age and line hybrid, and the same manufacturer's equipment was used, resulting in equal costs. The chickens were debeaked on the first and tenth day, respectively. The comparative method was used. The breeder adhered to the technological norms recommended by the hybrid selectioner. A special attention was paid to increasing chicken body mass and vitality from the beginning until the end of rearing (18th week).

Key words: Poultry, hybrid Tetra SL, offspring rearing, mortality, 18th week chicken, EU standards.