Poultry Science

High ambient temperature is one of the most important problems for poultry production in many regions of the world. Heat acclimatization has been experienced in many poultry species for economic losses due to heat stress. Therefore, the effect of orange peel essential oil (OEO) dietary supplementation on compensatory growth parameters of short-term fasted and thermal conditioned quail chicks at an early age was studied. 168 seven-day-old quail chicks were randomly assigned to six groups as the control, thermal conditioning (36°±1°C and 70-80 % RH for 24 h) and fasting group (feed withdrawal for 24 h). Each group was split into two and received a basal feed or the same basal feed with 300 ppm OEO supplemented feed. Thermal conditioning and fasting at early age significantly resulted in growth retardation between 7-14 d of the experiment. Essential oil supplementing positively influenced weight gain and feed conversion ratio of the quails at 7-42 d with similar feed intake. Early age ...

CERCI, I. H., M. CIFTCI, M. BAHSI, U. KILINC CERCI, I. H., M. CIFTCI, M. BAHSI, U. KILINC: Cholesterol and fatty acid Cholesterol and fatty acid composition of lamb serum and offal as affected by alfalfa and concentrate composition of lamb serum and offal as affected by alfalfa and concentrate. Vet. arhiv 81, 575-584, 2011.

In Thailand, H5N1 infection was first reported on January 23, 2004 at a layer farm in Suphanburi province. Subsequently, several epidemic waves spread through Thailand, adversely affecting poultry farmers’ livelihoods, commercial poultry production in general and human health, as well as tourism. In response to these epidemics, the Thai Department of Livestock Development (DLD) implemented various control measures, which encompassed stamping out of affected poultry flocks, pre-emptive culling of at-risk flocks, restricting poultry movements, banning free-range duck keeping, and improving bio-security and hygiene systems on poultry farms. Furthermore, DLD introduced a compartmentalisation system for commercial poultry enterprises. Implementation of these measures significantly reduced the incidence of HPAI outbreaks.

The in vivo efficacy of ultrasonicated Rosmarinus officinalis ethanolic extract (UROEE) and its chitosan-loaded nanoparticles (UROEE-CsNPs) was investigated as a dietary prophylactic agent and as a therapeutic treatment against Eimeria tenella infected broiler chickens. Methods Chickens were infected with 4 × 10 4 E. tenella oocysts at 21 days old for primary infection and with 8 × 10 4 oocysts at 35 days old for secondary infection. Eleven experimental groups were conducted. Dietary addition of 100 mg/kg UROEE and 20 mg/kg for CsNPs as well as UROEE-CsNPs were included for prophylactic groups from day 1 to 42. The same doses were used for therapeutic treatment groups for 5 constitutive days. Oocyst output in feces was counted. Histopathological and immunohistochemical studies were conducted. Gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines as IFN-γ, IL-1β and IL-6 as well as anti-inflammatory cytokines as IL-10 and TGF-β4 was analyzed using semi-quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR. The results showed an efficacy of UROEE, CsNPs and UROEE-CsNPs in reduction of oocyst excretion and improving the cecal tissue architecture. CD4 + and CD8 + T lymphocytes protein expression were reduced. E. tenella infection lead to upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines as IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6 and anti-inflammatory cytokines as TGF-β4 following primary infection, while their expression was downregulated following secondary infection. The dietary prophylactic additives and therapeutic treatments with UROEE, CsNPs and UROEE-CsNPs could decrease the inflammatory response to E. tenella as indicated by oocyst output reduction, histopathological improvements, CD4 + and CD8 + T cells protein expression reduction as well as reducing mRNA expression levels of the tested cytokines following primary and secondary infections. Consequently, these results will help to develop better-combating strategies for the control and prevention of coccidiosis on poultry farms as a dietary prophylactic agent or as a therapeutic treatment.

Globally, there is a severe problem with antibiotic resistance in animals and humans. It may result in diseases that are extremely challenging to treat. In certain situations, conventional antibiotics used to treat an illness may no longer be effective in poultry and an alternative treatment is used. Therefore, using probiotics instead of antibiotic therapy to treat specific health issues in both humans and animals can achieve the desired result, such as preventing infectious zoonotic diseases and enhancing general health. Probiotics are friendly live microorganisms like normal flora, when consumed in a sufficient dose which produces positive effects on the host. This review aimed to prove that using probiotics in poultry instead of antibiotics can fight the spread of pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter to humans by ingestion of undercooked poultry meat infected with these bacteria and also increase antibiotic resistance to humans. Finally, concluded that probiotics play a potential role in the spread of antibiotic-resistance genes in our natural environments, we believe it is crucial to implement proper regulation on their use in both livestock and human applications globally.

In this study, the effects of microbial phytase supplementation in diets were investigated on feed intake, egg production and feed efficiency in laying hens. The experiment was carried out between the July 15 to October 15 . 120 Nick Chick White hens at 210 days of age were divided into four groups of 40 each. th th Each cage contained 5 hens. Treatment groups were fed the basal diet (Control Group) or the basal diet supplemented with 300 U/kg of microbial phytase (Group A) and 600 U/kg of microbial phytase (Group B). Birds in each group were fed a balanced diet ad libitum. Daily feed intake, feed efficiency, egg production and egg weight differed between treatment groups (P<0.01). However initial and final body weights were similar in all groups. It can be concluded that supplementation of microbial phytase to diets improved hen productivity.

With the increase in demand for broilers, breeds that provide rapid weight gain, efficient use of feed and high carcass yield have been selected for chicken meat production. The trial was carried out to determine the effect of broiler male parent’s body weights of growing period (six and eighteen weeks) on progeny broiler performance traits. Cockerels in the study were allocated into 5 groups as Light Standard (LS), Light Light (LL), Standard Standard (SS), Heavy Heavy (HH) and Heavy Standard (HS) according to the live weight at the 6th and 18th weeks. When these cocks were young (24 weeks of age), prime (35 weeks of age) and old (48 weeks of age), the broiler performance of the offspring obtained from them by artificial insemination was evaluated. In terms of sire body weights during the study, the HH group had the highest live weight. In terms of the 35th d body weights of broilers, HH group reached the highest average in all periods, while the LS group had the lowest average and LL, SS and HS were close to each other. The average European Production Efficiency Index (EPEI) values of LL, LS, SS, HS and HH groups were found to be 434, 423, 429, 422 and 460, in three broiler trials average, respectively. The heritability for the body weight trait was found as for the 7th d= 0.18, 14th d= 0.21, 21st d= 0.31, 28th d= 0.30 and 35th d= 0.37. In conclusion, it was determined that the highest broiler performance was observed in the offspring of HH cock (heavy at the 6th and 18th week). In addition, it was determined that changes in live weight of sires after the 6th week (efforts to bring them to standard weight) would negatively affect the broiler performance of the offspring. Considering the EPEI, in which feed conversion rate and liveability are also included in the formula in addition to live weight it is suggested that HH group sires should be preferred for heavier broiler and more economical meat production.

The designations employed and the presentation of material in this information product do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) concerning the legal or development status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. The mention of specific companies or products of manufacturers, whether or not these have been patented, does not imply that these have been endorsed or recommended by FAO in preference to others of a similar nature that are not mentioned. The views expressed in this information product are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of FAO.

Background and Aim: The widespread use of antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) in poultry production has been implicated in altering gut microbiota and promoting the excretion of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria into the environment. Salmonella enterica serovar Infantis (Salmonella Infantis [S.I]), a prevalent zoonotic pathogen, has demonstrated increasing resistance in poultry systems. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of natural control microorganisms (NCM), Bacillus subtilis and Lactobacillus plantarum, in reducing the abundance of MDR S.I in fresh chicken litter from birds raised with or without AGP supplementation. It also examined how physicochemical properties and microbial dynamics influence pathogen persistence.

Materials and Methods: Microcosms were constructed using litter from broilers raised under two dietary regimes (with and without avilamycin). Treatments included combinations of AGP, S.I, and NCM. Bacterial enumeration was performed using selective media, and whole-genome sequencing of S.I was conducted to characterize antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes. Physicochemical parameters (pH, humidity, temperature, and ammonia) were measured and correlated with microbial loads. Antagonistic activity of NCM strains was assessed using agar diffusion assays.

Results: Genome analysis revealed that S.I carried multiple resistance genes (e.g., blaCTX-M-65, tet(A), and sul1) and efflux systems conferring MDR. In vitro assays showed strong antagonism by L. plantarum and moderate activity by B. subtilis. In microcosms, S.I counts significantly decreased in the presence of both AGP and NCM, indicating synergistic inhibition. Conversely, in the absence of AGP, NCM had a limited effect. Statistical analyses showed strong correlations between microbial groups and physicochemical variables, particularly during later production stages.

Conclusion: The application of B. subtilis and L. plantarum in chicken litter significantly reduced S.I colonization under AGP supplementation, suggesting their potential as biocontrol agents. These findings support the development of integrated litter management strategies to mitigate zoonotic and resistant pathogen dissemination, particularly in AGP-using systems. However, the effectiveness of such interventions may vary across farms due to differences in microbial ecology and environmental conditions.


Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, Bacillus subtilis, competitive exclusion, food safety, Lactobacillus plantarum, poultry litter, Salmonella Infantis.

Turkey meat can be salted and dried in one step by soaking in a concentrated salt-glucose syrup solution at low temperature. Sugar impregnation is minimal; only low molecular weight sugars generally penetrate the product. Glucose uptake is very quick, suggesting the possible involvement of passive glucose transporters. The operational scope of this process, depending on the targeted end-product features, was determined for

Background and Aim: Ticks are critical vectors of pathogens affecting humans and livestock globally. The microbiome of ticks, comprising diverse bacterial communities, plays a crucial role in tick biology and vector competence. Hyalomma ticks are prominent in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and are known carriers of significant pathogens. This study aimed to systematically evaluate existing literature regarding the microbiome composition of Hyalomma ticks in the MENA region, identify predominant bacterial genera, and highlight knowledge gaps.

Materials and Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using four databases: ScienceDirect, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus. The search covered studies published between 2014 and 2024 employing 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing to analyze microbiomes of Hyalomma ticks within the MENA region. Studies not fulfilling these criteria were excluded through independent assessment by two authors.

Results: Out of 1,220 screened articles, seven studies met inclusion criteria, involving five Hyalomma species: Hyalomma dromedarii, Hyalomma anatolicum, Hyalomma excavatum, Hyalomma marginatum, and Hyalomma scupense. Most studies (57.14%) focused on H. dromedarii, primarily collected from camels. The geographical distribution of studies included the United Arab Emirates (42.86%), Saudi Arabia (28.57%), Iran (14.29%), and Tunisia (14.29%). Common bacterial genera identified across multiple studies included Acinetobacter, Bacillus, Flavobacterium, Francisella, Rickettsia, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, and Corynebacterium. However, substantial gaps were noted, particularly concerning variations related to tick lifecycle stages, host interactions, temporal dynamics, and extensive geographic coverage within the MENA region.

Conclusion: This systematic review underscores the presence of key bacterial genera within Hyalomma ticks across the MENA region, revealing their potential roles in tick biology and pathogen transmission. Major research gaps identified include limited geographical scope, insufficient exploration of microbiome variation across tick life stages, host-specific interactions, and the environmental factors influencing microbial communities. Addressing these gaps through comprehensive, longitudinal, and multi-regional studies is imperative for improving public health strategies and developing targeted tick-control methods. 


Keywords: 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing, Hyalomma, microbiome, Middle East and North Africa region, ticks.

Native chickens, inherent to sustainable agriculture, play a crucial role in diverse ecosystems and local economies. Recognizing their significance, this study, conducted at Lagangilang, Abra aimed to evaluate the impact of annatto seed, turmeric, and red-hot pepper as additives on the egg performance of native chickens over four months laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Focusing on laying performance in terms of average monthly egg laid, hen house egg production (HDEP), egg mass, egg weight, and mortality and morbidity rate. The research revealed no significant differences in various egg performance parameters, nevertheless, the T3 annatto seed had the highest mean among the treatments next with the commercial egg booster in terms of laid eggs, while unexpectedly contributing to a reduction in mortality and morbidity rates among native chickens. The study suggests that while these additives may not serve as direct egg promoters, they hold promise for improving specific aspects of native chicken eggs, warranting further investigation into their potential health benefits and optimization for market appeal. In terms of return above the feed, stock, and additive costs, utilizing annatto seed and turmeric as additives is 4-13%. Hence, a comprehensive understanding of these implications is vital for informed decision-making when considering additives and enhancers in native chicken production. Though all egg enhancers are acceptable, the prevailing price of the additives to be used should be considered.

Native chickens, inherent to sustainable agriculture, play a crucial role in diverse ecosystems and local economies. Recognizing their significance, this study, conducted at Lagangilang, Abra aimed to evaluate the impact of annatto seed, turmeric, and red-hot pepper as additives on the egg performance of native chickens over four months laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Focusing on laying performance in terms of average monthly egg laid, hen house egg production (HDEP), egg mass, egg weight, and mortality and morbidity rate. The research revealed no significant differences in various egg performance parameters, nevertheless, the T3 annatto seed had the highest mean among the treatments next with the commercial egg booster in terms of laid eggs, while unexpectedly contributing to a reduction in mortality and morbidity rates among native chickens. The study suggests that while these additives may not serve as direct egg promoters, they hold promise for improving specific aspects of native chicken eggs, warranting further investigation into their potential health benefits and optimization for market appeal. In terms of return above the feed, stock, and additive costs, utilizing annatto seed and turmeric as additives is 4-13%. Hence, a comprehensive understanding of these implications is vital for informed decision-making when considering additives and enhancers in native chicken production. Though all egg enhancers are acceptable, the prevailing price of the additives to be used should be considered.

The aim of this study is to determine whether the site of oviposition has an impact on the results of incubation of broiler hatching eggs. In order to determine this, eggs laid in the nest, eggs laid in the nest and then placed on the floor to cool and eggs laid on the floor were compared. All eggs had a visually clean shell, including eggs laid on the floor. A total of 1,800 eggs from a 59-week-old Cobb 500 parent flock were examined, divided into three groups (n = 600) with 4 replicates (150 eggs per replicate). Compared to nest eggs, floor eggs had significantly higher weight loss (p<0.05), lower hatchability of set eggs and total embryonic mortality (p<0.01), as well as a lower number of first grade chicks per incubator tray (p<0.05). The percentage of contamination differed significantly between groups and it was the highest in floor eggs and the lowest in nest eggs (p<0.01). Nest eggs placed on the floor did not differ statistically significantly from nest and floor eggs in hatchability, total mortality and number of first grade chicks per incubator tray, although these eggs achieved more favourable results compared to floor eggs (p>0.05). The applied treatments did not affect the weight and length of the chicks (p>0.05). This research confirmed that floor eggs, despite their clean shell, have lower hatchability and a higher percentage of contamination than nest eggs, which emphasizes the importance of maintaining hygiene in nests and preventing the appearance of floor eggs in order to ensure the maximum number of eggs suitable for incubation.

The interaction between chick type and xylanase supplementation (Avizyme +-**) of a wheat based diet was investigated using a -ῌ, factorial arrangement. The diet (0./ g wheat/kg) was supplemented with * or + g/kg xylanase and fed to broilers, broiler breeders, or pullets from + to +3 day-old. The basal diet was formulated based on the average of the nutrient requirements of all bird types investigated. Body weight, feed intake, feed: gain ratio, upper intestinal digesta content viscosity, and relative weights of gastrointestinal organs to body weight were determined. There were significant e#ects of chick type on live weight, daily gain, feed intake, and feed: gain ratio (P῍*.*+). During the course of this study, pullets always showed significantly lower body weight, feed intake, daily gain, and higher feed: gain ratio (P῍*.*/). The e#ect of enzyme supplementation on body weight, daily gain, and feed: gain was significant only at later age growth periods (P ῍*.*/). The positive e#ect of enzyme inclusion was only pronounced in broiler chicks. Daily feed intake was not significantly a#ected by enzyme supplementation of the diets (P῎*.*/). Small intestinal digesta content viscosity was not di#erent between di#erent chick classes (P῎*.*/), but enzyme inclusion significantly (P῍ *.*/) decreased digesta viscosity in all three chick types. Gastrointestinal tract characteristics were only a#ected by chick type (P῍*.*/). It was concluded that while performance di#erences between chick types were large as expected, the e#ect of enzyme supplementation on performance was dependent both on chick type and age. The reduction of intestinal digesta viscosity due to enzyme supplementation is not a reliable gauge of the positive enzyme e#ect observed on bird performance when compared across di#erent classes of chicks.

The effect of Kalongi (Nigella sativa, L.) seeds was studied on the performance of layers and cholesterol contents of their egg-yolks. A total of 96 White-Leghorn birds of 40 weeks of age and at the egg-laying stage were randomly divided into 12 experimental units, eight birds in each unit. These units were randomly allotted to four treatments in such a way that each treatment received 3 experimental units. Four test rations were prepared by supplementing a commercial layer-ration with powdered Kalongi seeds at the rates of 0.0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5%. Effects of feeding these rations on feed intake, egg production, egg mass, egg shell thickness, Haugh unit, yolk index, blood spots, meat spots and total cholesterol in eggs were determined after a period of 12 weeks. Blood samples of the two birds selected at random from each replicate were taken at 0, 6 and 12 weeks. The serum obtained from these samples was analyzed for total cholesterol, low-density lipoproteins, high-density lipoproteins and triglycerides. Data on feed intake, feed refused and egg production were used to calculate the feed conversion ratio. Results showed that Nigella sativa seeds significantly (P<0.05) increased egg production, egg mass, egg-shell thickness and Haugh unit. However, there was no significant (P>0.05) change in yolk index, blood and meat spots. The Nigella sativa seeds also significantly (P<0.05) reduced yolk cholesterol contents. The serum triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, cholesterol and total cholesterol levels were also reduced, while serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level was increased by supplementing the commercial layer-ration with Nigella sativa seeds.

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The effects of maternal n-6 and n-3 fatty acid (FA) supplementation on hatched chick tissue FA profile, antioxidant status, and ex vivo eicosanoid production by the cardiac tissue were investigated. Eggs with low, medium, and high levels of n-3 FA were obtained by feeding Cobb breeder hens were fed a cornsoybean meal-based diet containing 3.5% sunflower oil (low n-3), 1.75% sunflower oil plus 1.75% fish oil (medium n-3), or 3.5% fish oil (high n-3). Total n-3 FA in the yolk ranged from 1.8, 10.3, and 13.3% for low, medium, and high n-3 eggs, respectively (P < 0.001). Total long-chain (>20 C) n-6 FA in the egg yolk were 7.4, 2.1, and 1.3 for low n-3, medium n-3, and high n-3 eggs, respectively (P < 0.001). No differences were observed in total fat content of the eggs, which was 33.3, 31.6, and 31.9% for low n-3, medium n-3, and high n-3 eggs, respectively (P > 0.05). Hatchability for the low, medium, and high n-3 eggs was 89, 85, and 83%, respectively (P > 0.05). The total lipid content of chick liver, heart, brain, and lungs can be placed in the following descending order: liver > brain > heart > lung and was not affected by egg FA (P > 0.05). Total n-3 FA were higher in the tissues of medium and high n-3 chicks than in the tissue of low n-3 chicks (P < 0.05). There was no effect of egg FA on docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n-3) in the heart of low, medium, and high n-3 chicks (P > 0.05). There were no differences in total glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, or superoxide dismutase activities in the tissues of chicks from low n-3, medium n-3, and high n-3 eggs (P > 0.05). The medium n-3 and high n-3 chicks had lower catalase activity in the heart than did the low n-3 chicks (P = 0.013). The TBA reactive substances were significantly lower in the liver of high n-3 chicks than in that of low and medium n-3 chicks (P < 0.05). Heart tissue prostaglandin E 2 concentration was higher in low n-3 chicks than in those hatched from medium or high n-3 eggs (P < 0.05). Heart tissue thromboxane A 3 was lowest in low n-3 chicks (P < 0.05). There was no effect of yolk FA on ex vivo prostaglandin E 3 or thromboxane A 2 production in cardiac tissue (P > 0.05). These results indicate that modulating egg yolk n-3 FA enhances tissue n-3 FA and reduces proinflammatory cardiac eicosanoid production without affecting hatchability.

Egg components, total fat, and fatty acid content of specialty eggs were compared. One dozen eggs were collected and analyzed from each of five different brands from hens fed a diet free of animal fat (SP1), certified organic free-range brown eggs (SP2), uncaged unmedicated brown eggs (SP3), cage-free vegetarian diet brown eggs (SP4), or naturally nested uncaged (SP5). Regular white-shelled eggs were the control. A significant (P < 0.05) difference was observed in the egg components and fatty acid content in different brands. The percentage of yolk was lower (P < 0.05) in SP2 and SP4 with a concomitant increase (P < 0.05) in the percentage of white. The

This is a PDF file of an article that has undergone enhancements after acceptance, such as the addition of a cover page and metadata, and formatting for readability, but it is not yet the definitive version of record. This version will undergo additional copyediting, typesetting and review before it is published in its final form, but we are providing this version to give early visibility of the article. Please note that, during the production process, errors may be discovered which could affect the content, and all legal disclaimers that apply to the journal pertain.

This study explores the socio-economic conditions of the local fisherfolk in Barangay Poloyagan, Pagadian City, with the aim of identifying their primary livelihood challenges, assessing the level of government support, and formulating policy recommendations for sustainable development. Employing a mixed-method approach, the research involved structured interviews, surveys in the local dialect, and focus group discussions with 30 randomly selected household heads from the fishing community. The findings reveal that most fisherfolk operate on low daily incomes (₱200–₱300), lack access to modern fishing equipment, and face significant environmental and economic vulnerabilities, including seasonal fish scarcity, typhoons, high equipment costs, and the absence of relevant local ordinances. The study also notes the lack of alternative income sources for many respondents, inadequate institutional support, and a declining interest in fishing among younger generations. The theoretical frameworks of Fred Riggs’ Ecology of Public Administration and Mark Moore’s Public Value Theory are applied to analyze governance gaps and the misalignment between public policy and community needs. In conclusion, the study recommends organizing fisherfolk into cooperatives, improving access to financial and technical support, enhancing infrastructure, and enacting localized policies to protect and empower the fishing sector. These recommendations aim to strengthen local governance and promote socio-economic resilience in marginalized coastal communities.

The study investigated the poultry farmers' resilience to disease outbreaks in Oyo State. A three-stage sampling technique was employed. Primary data were collected from 205 respondents with the aid of well-structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, Principal Component Analysis and probit regression were used to analyse data. The study showed that most farmers adopted some of the critical biosecurity measures (regular cleaning of the poultry pen, disinfecting the poultry pen before introducing new stock to the pen, infected birds isolated into a separate pen and provision of disposable footwear/footbath) to prevent disease outbreaks. Moreover, 81.2% and 25.0% of respondents with postgraduate certificates and no education had high and low resilience to disease outbreaks, respectively. The result revealed that 92.7% of the farmers with years of experience in the bracket 10-19 had high resilience to disease outbreaks. The result showed that years of experience and flock size positively influenced poultry farmers' resilience to disease outbreaks. The positive impact of poultry farming experience on resilience highlights the need for continuous training and knowledge-sharing programs. Agricultural extension services should be strengthened to provide both new and existing poultry farmers with timely information on disease prevention, farm management, and biosecurity practices.

The spatial network structure of Dergall is based on substances nontoxic to humans and the environment which, when applied on solid surfaces, creates a coating that reduces bacterial cell adhesion. The bacteriostatic properties of siloxanes are based on a purely physical action mechanism which excludes development of drug-resistant microorganisms. The aims of the present study were to 1) evaluate a Dergall layer formed on the eggshell surface regarding the potential harmful effects on the chick embryo; 2) evaluate antimicrobial activity and estimate the prolongation time of Dergall's potential antimicrobial activity. Dergall at a concentration of 0.6% formed a layer on the eggshell surface. In vitro testing of the potential harmful effects of Dergall by means of a hen embryo test of the chorioallantoic membrane showed no irritation reaction at a concentration of 3% and lower. The hatchability of the groups sprayed with a Dergall water solution with a concentration of 0 to 5% was 89.1 to 93.8% for fertilized eggs (P . 0.05) but decreased to 63.7% (P , 0.05) in the group sprayed with a 6% concentration of the solution. This phenomenon was caused by embryo mortality in the first week of incubation. At the concentration of 0.6%, Dergall exhibited strong antibacterial properties against bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Shigella dysenteriae, Shigella flexneri, and Salmonella typhimurium. For Streptococcus pyogenes, the highest antibacterial activity of Dergall was reported in the concentrations of 100 and 50%. For Pseudomonas aeruginosa, no antibacterial activity of Dergall was generally observed, but in vivo testing showed a strong decrease of all gram-negative bacteria growth. Moreover, a prolonged antimicrobial effect lasting until 3 D after disinfection was observed, which makes Dergall a safe and efficient disinfectant.

Embryonic thermal manipulation was known as an effective protocol for improving post-hatch growth performance and thermotolerance acquisition among avian species. Previously, we evaluated the impact of embryonic thermal manipulation of Japanese quail on embryonic development, hatchability, and post-hatch performance. We conducted the current study to furtherly elucidate the effects of thermal manipulations of Japanese quail embryos on internal organ weights, carcass traits, and meat quality parameters at post-hatch day 35. Quail eggs of control group were incubated at 37.7 °C and relative humidity (RH) 55%. Three thermally manipulated groups of quail eggs were incubated intermittently at 41°C and 65% RH intermittently (3 hours/day): the early embryonic group (TM 1) was thermally challenged at embryonic day (ED6) to ED8, the late embryonic group (TM 2) was thermally challenged at ED12-14, and early/late embryonic group (TM 3) was thermally challenged in both time windows. Quail meat quality parameters, carcass traits, and internal organ weights were evaluated at post-hatch day 35. The results revealed that early embryonic thermal manipulation (TM 1 group) is an effective protocol for decreasing fat pad accumulation. The pH value of breast meat in all TM treatments revealed significant (P < 0.05) decreases by 5% in comparison with that of control without any negative effects on breast meat composition or sensory criteria. Early embryonic thermal manipulation would be recommended as an enhanced protocol that can be used to reach the favored lucrative effects of the thermal treatment in meat-type quail.

Assist. Lecturer. Department of anatomy, histology and embryology, faculty of veterinary medicine, university of of Diyala. Iraq. [email protected] Lecturer. Department of anatomy, histology and embryology, faculty of veterinary medicine, university of kufa, Al-Najaf, Iraq. Waleedj.Abed @uokufa.edu.iq. Abstract The present study was performed to illustration some anatomical and histological characteristics of the liver of adult male moorhen bird Gallinula chloropus. The present study was conducted on 20 birds divided into two groups (10 for anatomical study and 10 for histological study) mature male healthy moorhen bird were used. The liver of moorhen bird Gallinula chloropus was located in the right, left hepatoperitoneal cavity, seems red-brown in color. Moreover, divided into two lobes, right and left, the left lobe appear larger than right lobe. Histologically the liver of moorhen bird enclosed by thin capsule of connective tissue. The hepatocytes, which arranged radiall...

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of colloidal nanoparticles of silver (Nano-Ag) on the expression of myogenesis-related genes in chicken embryos. The investigated genes included the members of the myogenic regulatory factors family (MRFs) and myocyte enhancer factor 2A (MEF2A) genes. A total of 200 fertilized broiler eggs (Indian River) were randomly distributed into four groups; non-injected control, injected control with placebo, treatment I in ovo injected with 20 ppm Nano-Ag, and treatment II in ovo injected with 40 ppm Nano-Ag. The eggs were then incubated for 21 days at the optimum temperature and humidity conditions. Breast muscle tissues were collected at the 5th, 8th, and 18th days of the incubation period. The mRNA expression of myogenic determination factor 1 (MYOD1), myogenic factor 5 (MYF5), myogenic factor 6 (MYF6), myogenin (MYOG), and MEF2A was measured at the three sampling points using real-time quantitative PCR, while MYOD1 protein expression was evaluated on day 18 using western blot. Breast muscle tissues were histologically examined on day 18 to detect the changes at the cellular level. Our results indicate that myogenesis was enhanced with the low concentration (20 ppm) of Nano-Ag due to the higher expression of MYOD1, MYF5, and MYF6 at the transcriptional level and MYOD1 at the translational level. Moreover, histological analysis revealed the presence of hyperplasia (31.4% more muscle fibers) in treatment I (injected with 20 ppm). Our findings indicate that in ovo injection of 20 ppm Nano-Ag enhances the development of muscles in chicken embryos compared with the 40-ppm dosage and provide crucial information for the use of silver nanoparticles
in poultry production.

Embryonic thermal manipulation led to several modifications in molecular, physiological, and biochemical parameters which affect pre-and post-hatch growth performance. The current study aims to elucidate the onset and long-term effects of intermittent thermal manipulations (TM) during two-time windows, early/late, of embryogenesis in Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) on embryonic development, hatchability, muscle histogenesis, and post-hatch growth performance. Four groups were created; quail eggs in the control group were incubated at 37.7 °C and relative humidity (RH) 55%. Three thermally treated groups were incubated intermittently at 41 °C and 65% RH intermittently (3 h/day): early embryogenesis group (EE) was thermally treated during embryonic days (ED) 6-8, late embryogenesis group (LE) was thermally treated during (ED12-ED14), and early and late embryogenesis group (EL) was thermally manipulated in both time windows. Relative embryo weights in EL and EE were significantly lighter than those in LE and Ctrl groups. The hatched chicks were reared under optimal managemental conditions (three replicates per treatment). Average daily feed intake was recorded, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) was calculated. Histological and quantitative analyses of muscle fibers were performed. The results revealed that TM led to significant hypertrophy of quail breast muscle in (EE). Intermittent short-term (3-6 h) thermal manipulation (39-40 °C) protocols during early embryogenesis (ED6-ED8) could be recommended to enhance muscle mass growth and breast muscle yield in the Japanese quail.

The major efforts to improve feed conversion, increase the body weight and breast muscle yield of broilers have been focused on feeding and management at the post hatch period. However, incubation temperature is the most significant factor for the egg hatching rate, chick quality, and post hatch performance. Therefore, incubation factors affecting the performance should be taken with necessary precautions.

An experiment was conducted to estimate genetic parameters in six experimental and five commercial primary breeding turkey lines using DNA fingerprinting. Eighteen individual DNA samples per line were digested with an Haelll restriction enzyme and hybridized with Jeffreys' 33.6 probe. The DNA fingerprints were analyzed with computer programs to measure band sharing (BS) and band frequencies. Within lines, BS ranged from 0.39 to 0.62 and reflected the history of the experimental lines. Among lines, BS ranged from 0.21 to 0.33 with an average of 0.26. The BS among the experimental lines reflected known relationships. All lines were subdivided based on indices of population subdivision. About 26 hypervariable loci

Background: Disinfectants in feed factories are crucial in maintaining a clean and hygienic environment, preventing disease spread, controlling cross-contamination, and ensuring product quality, thereby ensuring food safety. Objectives: This study aims to assess the performance of multiple disinfectants in a factory producing livestock, poultry, and aquatic feed, as well as in a laboratory. Methods: Microplate and agar-well diffusion methods were utilized to assess the efficiency of commercial chemical disinfectants (1 and 2) and formalin (37%) on the internal surfaces of the mixer, mill, extruder, dryer, and cooler in the factory and to examine the performance of eight common disinfectants, including disinfectants 1, 2, and 3, sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) (10%), ethanol (70%), methanol (70%), povidone-iodine (10%), and formalin, against Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, and Fusarium oxysporum. Results: The extruder had the highest level of microbial contamination, while the cooler had the lowest level. Disinfectant 2 and formalin showed the most effective antibacterial and antifungal properties. Disinfectants 2 and 3 showed the highest antibacterial effects in the laboratory, while other disinfectants had the lowest. Disinfectant 2 showed the strongest antifungal effect, followed by formalin, povidone-iodine, and NaClO. Ethanol and methanol showed the least effect. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of selecting effective disinfectants to reduce contamination in animal feed production facilities. Disinfectant 2 (Huwa-San TR-50), with its unique combination of hydrogen peroxide and silver-based ionic chemistry, is a powerful disinfectant solution for various applications. These results can serve as a valuable guide for choosing appropriate disinfectants for similar industries.

Background: Feather biodegradation is an effective alternative to other processing methods. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the effects of hydrolyzed feather meal (HFM) on broilers' antioxidant status, meat quality, and immune response. Methods: In October 2022, 480-day-old Ross 308 male broilers were used for 42 days in a completely randomized design with eight treatments and five replicates (12 chicks/replicate) in the research farm of Agriculture Faculty, Guilan University (Rasht City, Iran). The experimental diets were as follows: (1) control diet (without feather meal [FM]), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6), (7), and (8) all containing 4% raw FM (RFM), HFM by autoclave (Au-HFM), fermented FM (FFM) by Bacillus licheniformis (Bl-FFM), FFM by Bacillus subtilis (Bs-FFM), FFM by Aspergillus niger (An-FFM), FFM by B. licheniformis+B. subtilis+A. niger (Co-FFM), and HFM by an enzyme (En-HFM), respectively. Results: The results of the in vitro experiment showed that 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazl (DPPH) and 2, 2ʹ-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical-scavenging activities, as well as microorganism count of FFM, increased with increasing fermentation time (P≤0.05). Also, the pH of FFM significantly decreased by increasing the fermentation time (P≤0.05). The DPPH and ABTS radical-scavenging activities of FFM were higher than those of RFM, Au-HFM, and En-HFM (P≤0.05). The in vivo experiment results showed that the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) serum levels, glutathione peroxidase (GPX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) in the FFM were higher than those in the control and other treatments (P≤0.05). Compared to control and other treatments, broilers fed FFM had lower meat malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, higher meat pH, and higher water-holding capacity at 0, 7, and 14 d of the breast meat storage, as well as lower serum MDA levels (P≤0.05). Broilers fed FFM had higher antibody titers against Newcastle disease virus, lower heterophil count, and lower heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, as well as higher total anti-sheep red blood cell (anti-SRBC) titer, immunoglobulin G (IgG), and immunoglobulin M (IgM), compared to the control and other treatments (P≤0.05). Conclusion: Fermentation of FM increased its antioxidant properties, improved the body's antioxidative status, and contributing to improved the meat quality and immune response of broilers.

Background: Japanese quails are cheap and easy to maintain, and they have the potential to bridge the gap in animal protein consumption shortage; however, their performance is highly dependent on the efficiency of nutrient utilization. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the effect of an egg-lime-molasses mixture (ELM) administration on Japanese quails' nutrient utilization and carcass parameters. Methods: The study was conducted at the poultry unit of the Babcock University farmhouse, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria, from January to March 2022. ELM was prepared by placing fresh chicken eggs in a bowl, after which one liter of lime juice and 500 g of molasses were added and covered tightly for 10 days at 27 °C with a relative humidity of 61%. The solution was then blended. Two-hundred-day-old Japanese quails were assigned to one of five treatments in a completely randomized design. The birds were subdivided into four replicates of 10 birds each. The control (T1) had no administration of ELM; T2, T3, T4, and T5 had inclusion levels of 10, 20, 30, and 40 mL, respectively, all in 500 mL of water. Food and water were provided ad libitum. Data on performance characteristics, apparent digestibility coefficients, and carcass parameters were collected and analyzed using SPSS software, version 22 using descriptive statistics and analysis of variance. Results: The results revealed that ELM did not significantly affect performance characteristics and carcass parameters (P>0.05). The values for digestible crude protein were significantly higher (P<0.05) in the control (62.99%). However, the lowest values were observed among birds administered the lowest dosages (10 and 20 mL ELM with 56.36% and 54.38%, respectively). Birds administered the lowest dosages of ELM (10 mL) had significantly higher (P<0.05) digestible lipids (55.50%) and digestible ash (23.41%) values. The birds administered 20 mL ELM had significantly least (P<0.05) values for digestible lipids (25.50%) and digestible ash (2.58%), while significantly highest (P<0.05) values were observed for the same group of birds for digestible crude fiber (41.05%) and digestible carbohydrates (38.79%). Conclusion: The inclusion of ELM in the water of Japanese quails did not alter their growth performance or carcass parameters.

Background: Infectious coryza (IC) is an invasive upper respiratory disease caused by Avibacterium paragallinarum that affects birds, particularly chickens. The objective of this study is to isolate, characterize and molecularly identify the bacterium A. paragallinarum in poultry birds, as well as to determine its antibiotic sensitivity and resistance.

The global warming is topical on a global level today. In a parallel line with it the number of scientific researches which demonstrate the negative effect of high temperature over production performances, health and well being of the animals is increasing. Although the hens are homeothermic and keep constant body temperature, in comparison to the other home animals, they are more sensitive towards the temperature changes of the environment and thus more liable to developing a thermal stress. Consecutively the global warming, represents a direct threat to the poultry production. Having in mind that annually in the world 1 trillion and 300 billion eggs are produced and that they are highly nutritive food which the human nutrition does not have analog replacement, the finding of methods for overcoming the thermal stress and keeping the production at a level that satisfies the public consumption is of vital importance. Our aim is to make a correlation between the vitamin C as a food supplement and the productivity of laying hens in conditions of thermal stress. The research is carried out in the poultry farm 'Beli Most' -Bitola, North Macedonia and 13200, thirteen-month-laying-hens of Isa Brown type took part. The research lasted for 40 days and was conducted in two parts. In the first part i.e. the first 20 days the daily laying at average daily temperature of 23.84 Celsius degrees was followed. In the following twenty days the daily laying was followed again, but this time at an average daily temperature of 25.54 Celsius degrees and vitamin C as a food supplement. The vitamin C was added in the amount of one kilogram to one ton. In the first part of the research the average number of daily laid eggs was 11847 or in total 236940 eggs for all 20 days. The maximum number of daily laid eggs was 12660, and the minimum was 11250. In the second part, the average number of daily laid eggs was 11800 or in totals 236000 eggs for all 20 days. The maximum number of daily laid eggs was 13200, and the minimum was 10140. From the received results it can concluded that the increase of ambience temperature for 1.7 Celsius degrees even with the additional vitamin C the production went down for 40 eggs daily. In any case that reduction is insignificant. The absence of significant difference between the productive performances in the first and the second part, the most probably is due to the protective influence of the vitamin C.

The global warming is topical on a global level today. In a parallel line with it the number of scientific researches which demonstrate the negative effect of high temperature over production performances, health and well being of the animals is increasing. Although the hens are homeothermic and keep constant body temperature, in comparison to the other home animals, they are more sensitive towards the temperature changes of the environment and thus more liable to developing a thermal stress. Consecutively the global warming, represents a direct threat to the poultry production. Having in mind that annually in the world 1 trillion and 300 billion eggs are produced and that they are highly nutritive food which the human nutrition does not have analog replacement, the finding of methods for overcoming the thermal stress and keeping the production at a level that satisfies the public consumption is of vital importance. Our aim is to make a correlation between the vitamin C as a food su...

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk : (i) menghitung biaya variabel dan menghitung biaya usaha peternakan ayam broiler Damin Farm. (ii) menganalisa pengaruh BEP terhadap profitabilitas peternakan ayam broiler Damin Farm.. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan pada bulan Juni – Agustus 2016 di Peternakan Ayam Broiler Damin Farm Desa Perbalan Kecamatan Gunungpati Semarang. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode studi kasus. Sedangkan pengumpulan data yang digunakan dalam penelitian adalah metode wawancara langsung dan observasi. Data tersebut berupa data primer dan data sekunder. Data primer diperoleh dengan melakukan wawancara secara langsung dengan responden yaitu pemilik dan tenaga kerja peeternakan yang berpedoman pada kuesioner. Data Primer berupa data “time series” diperoleh dari catatan pembukuan di Peternakan tersebut yang meliputi identitas responden, jumlah ternak, biaya pakan, biaya obat – obatan dan kesehatan ternak, biaya tenaga kerja, biaya pemasaran. Selain itu, data sekunder diperoleh dar...

Prebiotics are nondigestible components that comprise short-chain carbohydrates, primarily oligosaccharides, which are converted into beneficial compounds by probiotics. Various plant substances with prebiotic properties provide substantial health benefits and are used to prevent different diseases and for medical and clinical applications. Consuming prebiotics gives impeccable benefits since it aids in gut microbial balance. Prebiotic research is primarily concerned with the influence of intestinal disorders. The proposed review will describe recent data on the sources, structures, implementation of prebiotics and potential mechanisms in preventing and treating various disorders, with an emphasis on the gut microbiome. Prebiotics have a distinctive impact on the gastro intestine by explicitly encouraging the growth of probiotic organisms like Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli. This in turn augments the body's inherent ability to fend off harmful pathogens. Prebiotic carbohydrates may also provide other non-specific advantages due to their fermentation in the large intestine. Additional in vivo research is needed to fully comprehend the interactions between prebiotics and probiotics ingested by hosts to improve their nutritional and therapeutic benefits.

Background and Aim: Heat stress (HS) significantly compromises broiler performance, intestinal health, and immune responses, posing a growing threat under climate change. Probiotics (PROs) have been proposed as a nutritional intervention to mitigate HS effects, yet their efficacy through drinking water remains understudied. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of water-supplemented PROs on growth performance, physiological responses, intestinal morphology, and inflammatory biomarkers in broiler chickens under thermo-neutral (TN) and HS conditions.

Materials and Methods: A total of 192 one-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly allocated to four treatment groups (6 replicates/group): TN with control (CON) water, TN with PRO-supplemented water, HS with CON water, and HS with PRO-supplemented water. PROs (Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus pumilus) were administered in drinking water at 50 mg/L from day 1 to 35. Birds in the HS groups were subjected to 3 h daily heat exposure (33°C ± 2°C) from days 31 to 35. Growth performance, physiological indicators, intestinal histomorphology, and blood biomarkers were assessed.

Results: HS significantly increased rectal temperature (Tr) (1.6°C; p < 0.01) and respiratory rate (57 breaths/min; p < 0.01). PRO supplementation reduced Tr by 0.17°C (p = 0.01) but did not affect performance metrics (feed intake, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio). HS reduced villus height (VH) and surface area in the jejunum and ileum (p < 0.05), while PROs partially ameliorated VH under HS. No significant effects of PROs were observed on serum amyloid A or tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels. However, PROs tended to reduce diamine oxidase levels (24%; p = 0.09). HS also decreased albumin and glucose levels (p ≤ 0.02).

Conclusion: HS adversely affected intestinal integrity and selected blood metabolites. Although PRO supplementation had limited effects on performance and inflammatory biomarkers, it conferred modest thermoregulatory benefits and tended to improve intestinal permeability. Further research is warranted to optimize PRO formulation and assess synergistic strategies for HS mitigation in poultry.


Keywords: blood metabolites, broiler chicken, heat stress, intestinal morphology, performance, probiotics, thermoregulation.

The aim of the work was to analyse of changes in external and internal characteristics of eggs of autochthonous chicken breed Oravka during laying cycle. A total of 350 eggs were collected to study for egg weight in g, egg shape index in %, shell thickness in mm, yolk, albumen and shell weight in g and their proportion in the egg mass, yolk index in % and Haugh units score in 26, 31, 36, 41, 46, 51 and 56 weeks of age (60 eggs for each age). The results showed that as the laying cycle of hens progressed, the egg weight and egg shape index were increased (P<0.05). During laying period increased (P<0.05) yolk weight and yolk proportion in the egg mass, whereas the albumen proportion and Haugh unit score decreased (P<0.05) with age of hens. The quality of yolk and albumen decreased (P<0.05) as the laying cycle advanced. The other results showed that eggshell proportion and thickness were reduced (P˃0.05), especially by the end of laying cycle.

The study was realised to investigate the effects of adding L-carnitine and probiotic on performance and carcass parameters of broiler chickens. Totally 240 one-day old broiler Ross 308 chickens randomly divided into four groups. Control group with basal diet without supplementation, experimental group 1 with probiotic in feed mixture in dose of 7.5 g/kg; experimental group 2 with L-carnitine in dose of 1ml/1.2 l in drinking water and experimental group 3 with probiotic in feed mixture in dose of 7.5 g/ kg + L-carnitine in drinking water in dose of 1 ml/1.2 l in drinking water. The results of this study indicated that supplementation with L-carnitine and probiotic statistically increased (P<0.05) final body weight of broiler chickens in comparison to other groups. The other results showed no significant differences (P>0.05) in feed consumption among groups in 42 days of age and broiler chickens receiving L-carnitine + probiotic had lowest mortality compared to the other groups. Furthermore, diet supplementation with L-carnitine and probiotic slightly increased (P>0.05) breast proportion of broiler chickens at the expense of a slight reduction (P>0.05) of thighs proportion in recognized statistically no significant differences (P>0.05). Further result showed statistically decreased weight of abdominal fat in broiler chickens with L-carnitine and probiotic and no significant effect in weight of giblets and carcass yield between control and other groups.

The aim of the experiment was to determine the influence of probiotic preparation on productive parameters and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. Totally 60 one-day-old chickens of Ross 308 were divided in two groups: control group (n=30) received drinking water without any additives and experimental group (n=30) received probiotic preparation in dose 2 ml per 1 l of drinking water from day 1 to day 42 of fattening. The probiotic preparation contained the strains of Lactobacillus casei CCM 3775 (3.86x10 6 CFU.g -1 ), Lactobacillus plantarum 24001 (3.86x10 6 CFU.g -1 ) and Saccharomycces cerevisiae MUCL 39885 (7.00x10 3 CFU.g -1 ). Broiler chickens were feeding ad libitum with commercial feed mixtures. Individual body weights of all birds, feed conversion ratio per group were determined in 21 and 42 day, total mortality rate we recorded in 42 day of fattening period. Carcass quality of broiler chickens was determined at the end of the experiment. The supplementation of probiotic affected positively body weight (p<0.05) in broiler chickens in 21 and 42 day of fattening. Feed conversion ratio in 21 and 42 day was similar in control and experimental groups. Total mortality in 42 day was positive affected (p<0.05) by supplementation of probiotic preparation in drinking water. The probiotic no significant (P˃0.05) affected percentage of breast and thighs from carcass body, weight of giblets and carcass yield. The addition of probiotic significantly (P<0.05) reduced the content of abdominal fat in carcass body.

The aim of this experiment was to determine the influence of humic substances or humic substances and thyme on carcass parameters of broiler chickens. A total of 60 Ross 308 broiler chickens were divided into 3 groups (n=20). The control group of chickens was fed with complete feed mixtures without any additives. Chickens in the first experimental group were fed a diet containing 1.5% of humic substances. Chickens in the second experimental group were fed a diet containing 1.5% of humic substances and 0.5% of thyme. In 42 day of fattening, 5 male and 5 females with body weight similar to the mean were chosen from each group of chickens. The carcass weight (g), the breast and thigh percentages (%), edible weight (g) and carcass yield (%) were recorded. We found statistical significant increase (P<0.05) of heart weight in the first experimental group in comparison with other groups. The favourable tendency of the effect of the supplements used, although without a statistically significant differences (P>0.05), was observed in both experimental groups in liver and gizzard weights. We recorded statistically nonsignificant differences (P>0.05) in carcass weight, carcass yield, breast a thigh percentage in the both experimental groups compared with control group.

Herbs, spices and their extracts (botanicals) have a wide range of activities. It may have a beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal micro flora of animals, performance and quality of animal products. In this experiment the effects of supplementation of the diet for laying hens with different doses of thyme or oregano essential oil addition on egg shell quality parameters were studied. Hens of laying hybrid Hy-Line Brown (n=50) were randomly divided into 5 groups (n=10) and fed for 20 weeks with diets with thyme or oregano essential oil supplemented. In the control group hens received feed mixture with no additions. The diets in the first and second experimental groups were supplemented with 0.5 ml/kg or 1.0 ml/kg thyme essential oil. The diets in the third and fourth experimental groups were supplemented with 0.5 ml/kg or 1.0 ml/kg oregano essential oil. The egg shell weight (g), specific egg shell weight (g/cm 3 ), percentage of egg shell (%), egg shell strength (N/cm 2 ) and egg shell thickness (µm) were evaluated. The egg shell weight for the whole period was in the order of the groups 5.70±0.52; 5.65±0.44; 5.54±0.42; 5.62±0.38 and 5.49±0.48 g±S.D (P>0.05). Egg shell strength during the reporting period was in order of the groups: 27.81±6.00; 27. 63±6.43; 27.17±6.36; 27.76±6.27 and 28.41±6.36 (N/cm 2 ±S.D). Similarly, in the egg shell specific weight (g/cm 3 ), egg shell percentage ratio (%) and egg shell thickness (µm) were observed statistically nonsignificant differences compared to the control group (P>0.05). The results suggest that the qualitative parameters of egg shell were not significantly influenced with thyme or oregano oil addition (P>0.05).