Some loss is part of livestock farming — the goal is to keep it low, know what's normal, and catch a problem the moment the numbers drift.

What's normal

A well-managed broiler flock loses roughly 3–5% over the full cycle. The first week is the riskiest — most early losses happen in brooding, before chicks are well established.

When to worry

If cumulative losses climb above about 7%, or you see a sudden daily spike, investigate immediately — that's a problem, not bad luck.

The usual causes

  • Weak day-old chicks from a poor hatchery.
  • Poor brooding — too cold or too hot in the first two weeks.
  • Disease — Gumboro and coccidiosis are the common killers.
  • Heat stress and overcrowding.
  • Feed or water gaps.

How to keep losses low

  • Buy from a reputable hatchery.
  • Get brooding right — temperature and dry bedding.
  • Vaccinate on schedule and keep the house clean.
  • Act the moment you see the first sick bird.

Key takeaways

  • 3–5% total loss is a normal, well-run cycle.
  • Above ~7%, or a sudden spike, means investigate now.
  • The first week of brooding is the riskiest.
  • Weak chicks, disease and heat are the usual causes.