Collect two samples, each of at least 150g of faeces from dropping belts, scrapers
or deep pits depending on the type of house, ensuring that the overall pooled faeces
samples represent each stack of cages. It is important to ensure that
- Belts or scrapers are run on the day of sampling to collect fresh material before
the samples are collected
- Pooled faeces which have lodged on the scrapers or
end of belts after they have been run is collected
- In step-cage systems where belts and scrapers have been installed, faeces is collected
from the deep pit
Samples can be collected with the use of gloved hands, inverted bags or spatulas.
Faeces from belts or scrapers from all rows and tiers of cages should be collected.
If composite faeces are collected from droppings pits, then collect at least 60
pinches of fresh surface material from different areas around the house where it
is safe to do so. In all circumstances be aware of any safety precautions that may
be necessary when taking these samples.