Overview

Vin Farm, one of Serbia’s largest egg producers with a capacity of 1 million hens, has utilized Pulcap since 2018 to combat severe mite infestations. This case study documents the farm’s journey from facing critical infestation levels to achieving and maintaining mite-free environments, highlighting the profound health and economic benefits realized through consistent use of Pulcap.

Farm Profile

• Location: Serbia
• Type of Farm: Large-scale commercial layer farm
• Housing System: Six cage systems and two aviary systems
• Capacity: 1 million hens
• Equipment: Big Dutchman (poultry housing)

Challenge

Vin Farm was initially grappling with a level 4+ mite infestation that significantly threatened the health and productivity of their hens. The severity of the situation necessitated a robust and effective solution that could be sustained over the long term without interrupting farm operations.

Initiation of Pulcap Treatment:

• Start Year: 2018
• Application Method: Systematic deployment of Pulcap across all housing units, facilitated by specialized spraying equipment designed to work seamlessly with Big Dutchman housing systems.

Ongoing Management Strategy:

• Latest Treatment: January 5, 2024
• Approach: Preventative maintenance treatments are now primarily conducted to prepare facilities for new flock introductions, ensuring a pristine environment from the start.

Results

The diligent application of Pulcap has eradicated mite infestations across all housing units, maintaining a consistently mite-free status as evidenced by regular checks.

This success has led to several key benefits:

Increased Hen Productivity – The absence of mites has alleviated stress and disease among the hens, leading to increased egg production and enhanced overall welfare.

Reduced Mortality Rates – Improved living conditions have notably decreased hen mortality, demonstrating better health management practices.

Cost Savings – Maintaining a mite-free environment has reduced the frequency and cost of treatments significantly, enhancing economic efficiency and reducing operational expenditures at the farm.

Conclusion

Vin Farm’s successful use of Pulcap highlights its efficacy in controlling severe mite infestations and maintaining optimal health conditions for poultry. This transition from critical infestation levels to a consistently mite-free environment not only emphasizes Pulcap’s effectiveness but also illustrates its role in boosting productivity and reducing operational costs. Vin Farm exemplifies how strategic pest management can result in substantial improvements in animal welfare and profitability in the agricultural sector.