Warning Against Overlooking Key Areas in Hatchery Management

10/07/2025

In our exclusive interview with Tolga Erkus, founder of Poultry Advisors and an internationally recognized expert in hatchery management, we dive deep into the critical but often overlooked elements that directly affect sustainable poultry production in Turkiye.

According to Erkus, success in hatchery management is the foundation of long-term, sustainable production. But what happens when sustainability is not properly addressed? The consequences, he says, are often rooted in avoidable missteps.

Erkus highlights three common mistakes in hatchery operations:

1. Poor maintenance and ventilation: Many hatcheries underestimate the importance of this or remain unaware of existing issues.

2. Collecting data but not using it: While data is gathered in large volumes, it’s rarely analyzed or applied to improve chick quality.

3. Focusing only on output numbers: The goal shouldn’t just be high chick production—it should be producing high-quality, high-performing chicks. Unfortunately, this quality aspect is frequently ignored.

The key takeaway? To ensure long-term success, hatcheries must shift their focus beyond quantity. Attention to care routines, environmental controls, and chick quality is essential for building a truly sustainable poultry operation.

📺 Watch the full exclusive interview with Tolga Erkus now on The Animal Economics official YouTube channel.