One of the most crucial minerals needed for poultry nutrition is calcium. It is essential for the  growth of bones, the creation of eggshells, the operation of muscles, the transmission of nerves, and  the general health of birds. Because laying hens constantly need a lot of calcium to produce eggshells,  proper calcium feeding is very crucial.

Major Functions of Calcium:

• Development of bones and skeletons: Calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D3 all contribute to the formation of strong bones and the prevention of skeletal weakening.
• Eggshell formation: Calcium carbonate makes about 90–95% of the eggshell. Sufficient calcium is necessary for healthy egg quality, strength, and thickness.
• Muscle function: Calcium is involved in normal contraction and relaxation of muscles.
• Nerve function: It helps in proper transmission of nerve impulses.
• Blood clotting: Calcium is an important component of the normal blood-clotting process.
• Enzyme and metabolic functions: It participates in several important enzymatic and cellular processes.

Calcium Requirement in Different Birds:

The requirement varies according to age, production stage, breed, feed intake, and  environmental conditions. Growing birds require calcium mainly for skeletal development, while  laying hens have a much higher requirement because calcium is continuously transferred to the  eggshell. Depending on age, productivity level, feed intake, and formulation technique, commercial  layers typically receive 3.5–4.5% of their diet from calcium. The ratio of calcium to accessible  phosphorus is also crucial.

Sources of Calcium:

• Common calcium sources used in poultry feed include:
• Limestone powder
• Oyster shell
• Calcium carbonate
• Di-calcium phosphate (provides both calcium and phosphorus)
• Shell grit

For layers, providing some coarse limestone or shell grit can help supply calcium over a longer  period, particularly during the night when eggshell calcification occurs.

Effects of Calcium Deficiency:

Calcium deficiency can cause:

• Thin, weak, or cracked eggshells
• Reduced egg production
• Poor eggshell quality
• Weak bones and skeletal abnormalities
• Lameness and difficulty in walking
• Rickets in growing birds
• Cage layer fatigue or osteoporosis in high-producing layers

Importance of Vitamin D₃ and Phosphorus:

Calcium cannot be utilized efficiently without adequate vitamin D₃. Vitamin D₃ improves  calcium absorption from the intestine and supports normal bone and eggshell formation. Phosphorus  is also essential for bone development, but excessive phosphorus or improper calcium: phosphorus  ratio can interfere with mineral utilization.

Conclusion:

Calcium is essential for maintaining strong skeletal health, optimum egg production, and  good eggshell quality. Poultry farmers should ensure a properly balanced diet containing adequate  calcium, available phosphorus, and vitamin D₃. Correct particle size and suitable calcium sources are  particularly important in laying birds. Proper calcium nutrition ultimately improves bird performance,  reduces egg breakage, and increases farm profitability.

Dr. Mahesh Nagnath Panchal

MVSc. Microbiology

Regional Technical Manager.

RR Animal Health Care Limited