Rearing conditions of laying hens and welfare during the laying phase
Ellen C. Jongman
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations
Animal Welfare Science Centre, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Corner Flemington Road and Park Drive, Level 3, Parkville, Vic. 3010, Australia. Email: EJongman@unimelb.edu.au
Animal Production Science 61(10) 876-882 https://doi.org/10.1071/AN20236
Submitted: 15 April 2020 Accepted: 25 June 2020 Published: 26 February 2021
Abstract
Conditions during rearing have a large influence on the development of behaviour of the laying hen. The early influence starts even before hatching and the first 2 weeks of life appear to be particularly sensitive for the development of future behaviour. It is recommended that birds are reared in an environment similar to where they are housed during the laying phase. Birds that are destined for multi-tier barns and aviaries benefit from navigating three-dimensional space early in life. There are additional benefits for bone and muscle strength for birds in this environment that may be beneficial later in life. Feather pecking during rearing is highly predictive of severe feather pecking in adult birds. High light intensity during rearing can result in increased feather pecking, so this should be avoided. The presence of litter and pecking strings can also reduce feather pecking. The effect of stocking density during rearing is less clear, although very high densities may increase feather damage due to pecking. Regardless of rearing environment, beak trimming is the most effective preventative treatment for the development of injurious feather pecking.
Keywords: animal welfare, poultry.
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