The Effect of Egg Shell Thickness on Some Hatching Traits of Broiler Breeders

Abstract

This study examined the effect of egg shell thickness on hatching traits of broiler breeders. A total of 253 eggs from broiler breeders were classified into three groups according to shell thickness (thin, medium, thick). Eggs were weighed, and shell thicknesses were measured ultrasonically. Hatchability, chick weight and chick length were assessed at the end of the incubation period. The effect of egg shell thickness on hatchability was found to be insignificant for all groups. Moreover, shell thickness had no significant effect on chick weight or length.