Abstract
Two experiments were conducted to determine the extent to which performance and egg shell quality might be influenced by dietary calcium level, source and particle size. In the first experiment of 48 weeks duration, Hy-Line 934-E hens were fed five particle sizes of limestone (fine, medium and coarse ground; chick and hen bits) at either 2.5, 3.0 or 3.5% dietary calcium level. Production, feed efficiency and egg weight were not significantly (P < 0.05) affected by treatments. Egg shell breaking strength was significantly (P < 0.05) influenced by calcium level and a trend was evident for increased shell strength with the larger particle sizes. Percent checked and cracked eggs were significantly (P < 0.05) lower for hen bits. No differences were observed for calcium levels. Definite trends for higher specific gravity of eggs with increasing calcium level and larger particles were observed.In the second experiment, which was 52 weeks duration, Babcock B-300 hens were given the following treatments: fine ground limestone (FLS); Cage-Cal, mixture of pullet and hen size limestone (CC); and combinations of 1/4 FLS and 3/4 pullet or hen size oyster shell (POS, HOS) or limestone (PLS or HLS). Egg production rate was not significantly (P < 0.05) affected by dietary treatments. Feed efficiency of hens fed HOS was significantly (P < 0.05) improved over those fed CC or POS. Egg weight was significantly (P < 0.05) greater for hens receiving POS. Egg shell breaking strength was significantly (P < 0.05) greater for CC as compared to PLS or HLS. Percent cracked and checked eggs was reduced with HOS and HLS. Percent soft shelled eggs was greatly reduced with the feeding of HOS. Based on prevailing prices for eggs and feed, HOS proved to be the most economical form of supplemental dietary calcium.
Published Version
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