ABSTRACT
The floor in most broiler houses is typically compacted soil or concrete. The surface of the floor is covered with bedding material known as litter. Materials used as litter mostly consist of pine shavings, wood chips, sawdust, peanut hulls, rice hulls, or chopped straw. Pine shavings are the most common type of litter used. Whatever material is used, its primary functions are to absorb moisture and promote drying of the house, reduce contact between birds and manure by diluting the fecal material, and provide an insulation and protective cushion between the birds and the floor.
