For any poultry farmer raising layers, good ventilation is not just a recommendation, it’s a necessity.
Proper airflow in poultry houses helps maintain the health, productivity, and comfort of birds, especially in commercial settings.
Samuel Israel Kayonde, the owner of Kyembogo sunrise poultry farm in Kasambya village, Mubende district, who keeps over 10,000 layers explains that proper ventilation is one of the most important aspects of poultry management.
“When you have many birds in an enclosed space, heat and gases like ammonia build up fast. Without good ventilation, the birds get stressed, stop laying eggs regularly, and become prone to diseases,” he says.
Kayonde says it’s important for commercial farmers to design poultry houses with open sides covered with wire mesh and curtains to regulate airflow.
“During the day, you need to open the sides to allow fresh air in, and at night, you need to lower the curtains to protect the birds from cold winds,” he explains.
“A well-ventilated house helps maintain a stable temperature and removes moisture that can encourage respiratory diseases”, he adds.
Rose Sanyu, another commercial farmer with over 20 years of experience, adds that poor ventilation can quickly lead to serious losses.
“If birds are exposed to excessive heat and poor air, they eat less, drink more, and reduce their egg production. Worse still, if diseases like Newcastle or CRD break out, they spread faster in poorly ventilated houses,” she warns.
Sanyu advises that every poultry farmer should design their houses based on the number of birds and the weather patterns in their area.
Fred Mpalanyi, a carpenter who has built poultry structures says good measurements are key.
“The standard is to raise the poultry house at least one metre off the ground with a roof height of 8 to 10 feet. Side openings should be at least three feet high to allow cross ventilation. Using timber slats for the floor also helps with airflow from below,” he explains.
Allen Musinguzi a veterinary doctor says that proper ventilation reduces the build-up of ammonia, which irritates the birds’ lungs and eyes.
It also helps dry out litter, preventing foot infections and parasites,” he says.
“Farmers who invest in good ventilation save money on medication and enjoy better egg production.”
