Aviagen experts share knowledge to strengthen early flock performance, breeder success and incubation results

CAMPINAS, Brazil – Aviagen^® Latin America joined poultry professionals from across the region at the XVI National Poultry Day in Costa Rica, held July 9–10 in San Rafael, Alajuela. Organized by the Association of Poultry Science Professionals and Promoters (APPCA), with support from the National Chamber of Poultry Farmers of Costa Rica (CANAVI), this year’s event explored the theme “Innovative and Sustainable Poultry Farming: the Perfect Balance.”

Contributing to the knowledge exchange, Aviagen experts delivered three presentations focused on practical management for bird welfare, performance and sustainability — all key elements of the company’s Breeding Success Together approach.

Getting birds off to a strong start

Henry Rivas, Aviagen’s Technical Services Manager for Central America, Mexico and the Caribbean (CAME), shared insights on “Management of the First Week in Broilers.” He emphasized that the first seven days are critical in determining the lifetime performance of broilers, with early care directly influencing outcomes such as feed conversion, uniformity and meat yield. Rivas underscored that success during this stage requires close coordination across all parts of the production chain — from parent stock quality and incubation to transportation and on-farm conditions.

Maximizing the potential of breeder males

Rodrigo Cisoto, Senior Technical Services Manager for CAME, spoke on “Male Breeder Management,” highlighting key areas that contribute to the health and productivity of male breeders. His talk covered factors such as body conformation, consistency across the flock, feeding program and day-to-day chick handling. “Each element has a direct impact on both fertility and performance,” said Cisoto. “Our goal is to provide practical, actionable guidance that producers can apply throughout the production cycle to achieve consistently favorable results.”

Improving chick quality through optimal incubation

Guillermo Reyes, Incubation Specialist at Aviagen, presented on “Management of Multi-Stage Incubators.” He offered recommendations to help producers improve hatchability and overall chick quality. Reyes highlighted the importance of tailoring incubation strategies to the local climate, understanding how different incubator brands operate, maintaining precise control over temperature and humidity, and paying particular attention to the hatcher phase — a brief but critical period where many common issues can arise.

Sharing insights, strengthening the industry

Aviagen’s presence at the XVI National Poultry Day reflects its long-standing commitment to working alongside customers to improve poultry performance through effective, welfare-conscious management. “This event offered an excellent opportunity for collaboration and learning,” said Cisoto. “By sharing our insights and listening to our customers, we can continue to evolve and support the success of poultry producers across Latin America.”