Embrex, Inc.

James P Thaxton

Julius K Tyczkowski

Craig E Whitfill

Tommy L Fredericksen

Frank W Edens

A method of treating birds by administering birds in ovo a T-cell growth factor comprising avian IL-2 is disclosed. The method is preferably carried out on chickens with 30K chicken IL-2 on about the eighteenth day of incubation. The method may be employed to increase the weight of treated birds after hatch. A vaccine may optionally be administered concurrently with the avian IL-2.

Method of treating birds

Birds are induced to molt by administering them a LHRH receptor ligand. One preferred ligand for administration is the LHRH agonist [D-Trp.sup.6 ] LHRH. Suitable subjects for treatment are laying hens which are at or near the end of their egg laying cycle, which can be induced to molt and returned to egg production by the method provided.

Growing community of inventors

Morrisville, NC, United States of America

James P Thaxton