Different Methods of Dead Poultry Disposal

Poultry production is considered as a profitable business venture but along with its profitability are the losses due to mortality. The most common causes of mortalities are ascites which accounts for 20 to 30% of all male broiler deaths, air quality that can cause mild to severe respiratory problems, temperature control when the night time temperature reaches 20 degrees, coccidiosis and necrotic enteritis and heart attacks or sudden death syndrome. It therefore becomes highly important for a poultry producer to choose a dead poultry disposal method that is economical as well as biologically and environmentally sound.

Methods of dead poultry disposal

Incineration

Incineration is the best option in areas that are poorly drained and where pits are not acceptable or when digging a rocky soil is not economically feasible. Incineration as dead poultry disposal is a biologically safe method because it prevents the further spread of diseases and does not pollute soil and groundwater. The small amount of ash that is generated from the incineration process does not attract insects or scavengers. Poultry producers who are looking for incinerators must choose a sturdy unit that can withstand heavy loading and high temperature. A concrete slab and a shelter could prolong the life of the incinerator.

Disposal pit 

The disposal pit is a shored-up hole that is dug into the ground with a small diameter opening at top through which the poultry carcasses can be easily dropped. However, this method of dead poultry disposal is only appropriate for small poultry farms with limited mortalities. Large scale poultry producers are using concrete or timber-lined pits so as to ensure proper performance and to provide an environment for aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms to decompose the organic materials. Successful use of a disposal pit depends on the proper selection and preparation of the site including appropriate design and quality construction so as to avoid contamination of water sources. The pit itself produces less water but water seeping into the pits can be serious concern.

Composting

Composting is a controlled natural process in which beneficial microorganisms that include bacteria and fungi reduce and transform organic wastes into a useful product. Using composting methods for dead poultry disposal has its advantages in the elimination of the spread of diseases and air and water pollution. Pathogens will not survive the increased temperature that contributes to the composting process. The best advantage is the end-product which is the compost than can be used for fertilizer. However, there are necessary elements for successful composting to ensure decomposition and safe operation. The building must allow all-weather composting and must be secured to prevent the entry of scavengers and rodents.

Emerging technologies

Emerging technologies offer potential alternatives like small-bin composting that uses the same concept as a large-bin composting but with less equipment, fermentation that provides the opportunity for poultry farmers to convert on-farm mortality into animal feed and refrigeration or freezing of poultry carcasses while waiting for pickup to the rendering facility if there is one located within a reasonable distance. Aside from the initial investment and operating costs, poultry producers must ensure that the methods for dead poultry disposal will comply the requirements of local regulations.