Question

Restricted feeding practices during rearing period in layers
A. Hasten sexual maturity
B. Increase intensity of egg production
C. Lower layer house mortality
D. Increase egg size
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. B, C and D only
• B. A, B and C only
• C. C, D and B only
• D. A, C and D only

Hint:

Remember that restricted feeding "delays" (does not hasten) sexual maturity.
This single distinction allows you to eliminate options containing Statement A.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Restricted feeding is a management practice used during the rearing (grower) period of layer pullets.
By limiting feed intake, producers control body weight gain and organize the development of the reproductive tract.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the physiological effects of restricted feeding in growing pullets:
- A. Hasten sexual maturity: This is incorrect. Restricted feeding deliberately delays sexual maturity.
Delaying maturity prevents pullets from laying eggs too early, which avoids the production of undesirable small (pee-wee) eggs and reduces the risk of prolapse.
- B. Increase intensity of egg production: This is correct. Controlled feeding ensures that the birds start laying at an optimal body weight, which leads to a more persistent and higher peak of egg production.
- C. Lower layer house mortality: This is correct. Birds raised on restricted diets are leaner and healthier, which reduces metabolic disorders (such as fatty liver syndrome) and lowers mortality during the laying cycle.
- D. Increase egg size: This is correct. Because the birds are more mature and have reached a larger skeletal frame size before laying begins, they lay larger, more valuable eggs.
Therefore, the correct points are B, C, and D.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The benefits of restricted feeding during the rearing period are represented by statements B, C, and D, which corresponds to Option (A).