(a) (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.