NiMet advises livestock farmers on rising temperature

  

The advisory committee of the National Meteorological Agency ( NiMet) on Seasonal Climate Prediction ( SCP) led by Director General ( DG) Prof. Charles Anosike has advised farmers majorly on livestock production to take proactive steps against economic losses on  day and night temperatures that is warmer than normal.

It was stated in the SCP of 2024 that both day and night time temperatures are predicted to be warmer than the long term average over most parts of the country in January,  March and May, while February day and Night time temperatures will be cooler than normal.

This prediction according to Prof. Anosike serves as an early warming tool to stakeholders especially at the livestock value chains for necessary preparedness and anticipatory action against weather and climate change related hazards.

The following categories are thereby advised in the order below 

1. Poultry Farming 

i. Farmers should lower stocking density during the stress period ( February -May) due to the predicted warmer than normal temperatures

ii. Farmers are advised to take into consideration the predicted warmer than normal temperatures when building chicken enclosures to enhance ventilation. Regular rehydration of birds is encouraged.

iii. Sanitizing poultry cages during the rainy season is advised to prevent the outbreak of diseases.

iv. The floor should be kept dry always to prevent the growth and spread of bacteria and fungi common during the wet season.

v. Little dry season ( August break) in the south comes with lower temperatures, that normally affect day old chicks, it is important to provide warming during that period.

vi. Proper management is very important.

2. Ruminant farming 

i. Farmers need to routinely deworm their livestock.

ii. To prevent mould growth, animals feeds should be stored in a clean and dry places throughout the rainy season.

iii. Clean water should be given frequently during the anticipated high temperatures.

iv. Antibiotics should be administered to milking cows to prevent under mastitis ( swelling of the under and stop producing milk)

v. Pest ( such as ticks) spread more quickly during the rainy season. It is therefore important to treat the animals often.

3. Piggery farming 

i. There is possibility of African swine fever during the little dry season ( August break), therefore farmers should engage biosecurity.

4. Aquaculture farming 

i. Fish farmers are advised to minimize feeding the fish in areas where warmer than normal temperatures are predicted.

ii. Farmers should construct earthen ponds one of two months before the onset of rain to achieve maximum result.

iii. Dredging the pond to deepen it and increase its capacity so that it can hold a lot of water throughout the season is advisable.

iv. During the predicted high temperatures, cleaning of fishpond should be done systematically and frequently.