Vol. 7, Issue 10 (2018)

Author(s):
P Reeja George and V Beena

Abstract:
Heat wave like conditions prevailed during summer 2015 and 2016 across Palghat and Thrissur Districts of Kerala. Day-maxima even shot more than 40o C on several days with dry sub-humid conditions during summer months. Poultry farming was very sensitive to such weather aberrations. Keeping in mind the sensitivity of poultry to such weather aberrations, an investigation into the profile as well as the possible climate change mitigation strategies preferred by poultry farmers was conducted among an accidental sample of poultry farmers of Palakkad District. A descriptive research design with a semi- structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Preventive vaccinations against New Castle disease and Infectious Bursal disease were adopted by most of the farmers. Rises in ambient temperature were reportedly associated with increased mortality among birds. Very few farmers were advised on remedial measures to counter climate change issues through trainings and other appropriate methods. Important management interventions suggested by farmers to reduce heat stress were measures to improve the air circulation inside the sheds during summer by using fans, thatching of roofs for reducing in house temperatures, reducing the flock density to help free movement.