Feed Oba Marshall as a commercial meat broiler, using a complete ration matched to age and market plan. No public Marshall breeder document supports one fixed phase schedule or universal protein percentage for every Nigerian farm.
Starter phase
Use a complete broiler starter from placement. Provide clean trays or paper feeding space during early brooding while permanent feeders are introduced. Keep feed fresh and easy to reach. Water must be available before feed intake can remain reliable.
Grower phase
A grower ration can bridge starter and finisher where the feed programme includes it. Change gradually and record the date. Do not switch only because a calendar says so; also consider bird development, supplier instructions and intended market age.
Finisher phase
Use a complete broiler finisher for the final production period. Confirm any medication withdrawal instructions on the feed label and with a veterinarian. Never assume every feed is medication-free.
How to know whether feed is working
- Weekly weight and uniformity are improving.
- Feed and water intake follow a stable pattern.
- Litter remains manageable and droppings do not change suddenly.
- Mortality and culls remain recorded and investigated.
- FCR and cost per kilogram of gain are calculated from the same period.
Birds eat but do not grow
Check feed wastage, scale and inventory records first. Then inspect water, heat, feeder competition, feed quality, disease, parasites and litter. Do not add antibiotics, enzymes or herbal products blindly. Use the Marshall weight guide, Feed Calculator and FCR Calculator.
Common mistakes
- Diluting complete feed with maize or bran.
- Changing brands repeatedly without records.
- Overfilling feeders and confusing wastage with consumption.
- Ignoring hot drinking water and poor flow.
- Buying feed by crude-protein claim alone.
- Using old price or intake assumptions for a new batch.
Keep feed dry, off the floor and protected from rodents. Reject mouldy or water-damaged bags.
