About Poultry Farmers and Traders Association of Kerala - FAT in , Trivandrum

Poultry (chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys and other fowl) can be kept by enthusiastic individuals in a back garden or on an allotment, or intensive farming production systems with a large acreage and high turn-over. However, the knowledge needed for looking after the birds in any number is generally the same, whether they are housed or free-range. While many intensive operations concentrate on just one or two breeds of bird, for the enthusiast there are a wide number of broiler (birds raised for meat) and egg-laying breeds available including rare breeds such as the Welsummer and the Plymouth Rock.

Poultry farm managers are responsible for the day to day running of the farm, which includes monitoring the welfare of the birds, feeding them and ensuring fresh drinking water is always available. They may also be managing staff in order to compile work rotas, pay and holiday entitlements. Managers are also responsible for maintaining the site, ensuring it is kept clean and tidy at all times and that it complies with the relevant heath and safety regulations. The health of the flock is most important, and managers need to be vigilant and able to act on any health issues that may occur.

This type of work is carried out in all weathers, both indoors and outdoors, and can involve long and unsociable hours. Managers will often need to be available for shifts that include weekends and bank holidays. The work can be seasonal, particularly with turkey flocks. The housing of indoor flocks can be dark, smelly and very dusty. Managers will need business skills as well as animal husbandry experience

Get Directions