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Broiler stocking density

See how many birds fit per square meter and how many kilos of live weight that represents.

Pre-sizing and estimating tool: the results do not replace a design, calculation, or report signed by a qualified professional, nor verification against the applicable standards.

Preliminary estimateRevision 12/11/2026
Batch
Shed

Usable area excludes alleys and fixed areas. The default values are examples only.

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—Stocking density
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Live weight per square meter by density

Load in kg/m² for densities of 8 to 18 birds/m², with the flock's average weight; the highlighted bar is yours.

Tap the chart to see the values.

Load per square metre by average weight

Kilos of live weight per square meter at different average weights; the dot is your batch.

Tap the chart to see the values.

What if the data changes?

Drag the controls to simulate data different from what you entered (from 30% less to 30% more) and watch the result change instantly.

Tap the chart to see the values.

Birds per m² according to area and number of birds

Live weight load, in kg per m², for different densities, with the average weight entered.

Step by step with your numbers

The calculation done in steps, with the values you entered.

    The calculation memo gathers this page's inputs, results, equations, assumptions, and references, with fields for project, responsible person, and review. The full report also includes the charts and interpretations, in color. In the print window, choose Save as PDF.

    How to use

    Enter the number of birds housed, the average weight, the usable floor area, and, if you wish, the target density of your system. The calculator shows the density in birds and in kilos per square meter and the area needed for the target.

    Worked example

    20,000 birds, average weight of 2.4 kg, 1,200 m² of usable area and target density of 16 birds/m².

    Density = 20,000 ÷ 1,200 = 16.7 birds/m². Live weight = 20,000 × 2.4 ÷ 1,200 = 40 kg/m². Area for the target = 20,000 ÷ 16 = 1,250 m².

    Precautions

    Method, assumptions, and references

    Equations used

    Density (birds/m²) = Number of birds ÷ Usable area
    Density (kg/m²) = Number of birds × Average weight (kg) ÷ Usable area
    Required area (m²) = Number of birds ÷ Target density (birds/m²)

    Assumptions and limits

    • Usable area is the rearing area, excluding corridors, fixed equipment and rest areas.
    • Average weight held constant at the time of checking; density in kg/m² grows with age.
    • Density limit set by the legislation and by the certifier of your production system.

    Standards and technical documents

    • Management manual for the broiler line used; applicable welfare standards and certification (current editions).

    Frequently asked questions

    What is the maximum allowed density?

    It depends on the system, the certification, and the region. Check the current legislation and the requirements of the integrator or the certifier.

    Why also look at kg per square meter?

    Because live weight load is what puts pressure on ventilation, litter and welfare. Two farms with the same number of birds can have very different loads.

    Does the area considered include the alleys?

    No. Use the usable rearing area. Including corridors or fixed areas makes the density look lower than it is.

    Does the result help plan a new shed?

    Yes, starting from the target density. For this, the reverse calculation gives the area needed for the batch's number of birds.