Introduction

Abstract

At the 69th annual meeting of the Poultry Science Association held at Purdue University a symposium entitled “Special Problems in Hatchability” was presented to the Association on August 7, 1980. The symposium was sponsored by the physiology and reproduction section. The topic was suggested by a group of members of the Association, and after making contact with numberous members from academia and industry, it was decided that the discussion of the special problems should deal with subjects normally not considered by hatchery and flock managers. There is ample evidence that the management of hatching eggs can affect hatch rate and it is known that seasonal influences on hatching rate can be modified through dietary and environmental manipulation in the breeder flock. Heavy breeders and turkeys appear to be especially vulnerable to the decrease in hatching rate as it is influenced by season and management.The three papers presented covered three .