Beginning A Commercial Game Bird Farm

Three of the most imminent researchers in the keeping, rearing, and nutritional studies of pheasant, quail, and partridge have combined their sixty years of experience to produce this handbook of aviculture. An indispensable tool. Upland game birds represent some of the most colorful and attractive birds in the world. Certain species of pheasants, quail, and partridges are raised for their economic importance as birds for sport shooting and as gourmet food items. Millions of these birds are harvested in the wild and on private shooting clubs. Privately owned game bird farms supply the birds that are released at shooting clubs. Some of these birds are also used for populating established or new game bird habitats. Exotic and rare species of game birds are also kept in special aviaries throughout the world, Most bird fanciers are interested only in maintaining exotics for their beauty, but some do recognize the importance of conserving the pure blood lines of species that are threatened by habitat destruction and uncontrolled hunting pressure. Many aspects of husbandry for domestic and exotic game birds are similar, yet there are important differences as to the amount of space needed for breeding stock, method of breeding (mass or pedigree mating), housing, nutrition, and egg care and incubation practices. This book was written for the purpose of updating the most recent methods used to reproduce commercial and exotic species of game birds. The most current methods of egg handling, incubation, nutrition, housing, lighting, and disease control are described for domestic and exotic species of pheasants, partridges, and quail. The authors offer detailed information on genetics, embryo development, artificial insemination techniques, and bird biology that are considered helpful to beginners, experienced game breeders, and bird biologists. This book can be used as a text or reference for college courses in avian or upland game bird management.

This book presents a detailed guide to hand-rearing techniques for raising young birds, providing complete coverage of a wide variety of avian species and taxonomic groups for all avian care professionals. Chapters are written by expert rehabilitation, aviculture, and zoo professionals, and include useful references and bibliographies for further reading and research. Each chapter provides valuable information on appropriate intervention, housing, feeding, and care. Hand-Rearing Birds, Second Edition presents 50 chapters, including 12 new chapters on species or groups of species not featured in the previous edition. It also features color photographs that help illustrate many concepts pertinent to birds. This important reference: Offers a detailed guide to hand-rearing techniques including species-specific guides to caring for and raising young birds Covers a wide variety of avian species and taxonomic groups Discusses how to examine a chick to identify problems such as hypothermia, dehydration, injuries, and common diseases, and what to do Combines information on the science and skill needed to successfully hand-rear birds Presents full-color photographs throughout Hand-Rearing Birds, Second Edition is an essential resource for avian rehabilitators, breeders, veterinarians, and zoo staff.

Through successive editions, Management and Welfare of Farm Animals has gained international recognition as a classic introductory textbook for students of agriculture and veterinary science. Conceived by the Universities Federation for Animal Welfare (UFAW), the book has always sought to promote the humane treatment of livestock within the practical business context of modern farming. Now fully revised and updated, this fifth edition remains the most comprehensive and accessible guide available. Three animal groups appear here for the first time (game birds, South American camelids, and ostriches), and a chapter on horses has also been restored. Throughout, the book offers clear advice for the humane management of all major farmed species in the primary context of large-scale food production. However, this edition also takes full account of consumer demand (and legal requirements) for alternative farming methods and enhanced welfare standards, whether in conventional agriculture or the smallest of ‘hobby' farms. Brand new chapters reflect fresh understanding of welfare science, ethics, and the role of society in ensuring the best possible farm conditions. It remains an indispensable resource for students, and for all those seeking to promote animal welfare. Published as a part of the prestigious Wiley-Blackwell – UFAW Animal Welfare series. UFAW, founded 1926, is an internationally recognised, independent, scientific and educational animal welfare charity. For full details of all titles available in the UFAW series, please visit www.wiley.com/go/ufaw.