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Toscano MJ, Jalali AS, Siegford JM, Stratmann A. Providing ramps during lay has larger impacts on laying hens than ramps at rearing. Poult Sci 2024; 103:104101. [PMID: 39137495 PMCID: PMC11372577 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.104101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Commercial laying hen housing is shifting from traditional cages to non-cage housing systems, such as the aviary, which has gained popularity due to potential for more species-typical behavior. However, birds housed in aviaries may have difficulties moving through the vertical tiers of the system leading to health problems such as keel bone fracture (KBF). One possible way to improve movement is to add ramps into an aviary system, allowing hens to walk between tiers rather than jump or fly. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of adding ramps to rearing and laying aviaries on bird health, production, and movement across vertical tiers of the aviary. Lohmann Selected Leghorn pullets were raised in 2 treatments: 4 pens (600 birds/pen) were raised with wire mesh ramps to aid movement between aviary tiers (RR) and 4 pens (600 birds/pen) were raised without ramps (RO). At 17 wk of age (WOA), birds were moved to the laying facility, in which 16 aviary pens with 225 birds/pen were populated. Half the pens (n = 8) were supplemented with wire mesh ramps (LR) and the other half were not (LO). Within each laying treatment group, 4 pens were populated with RR hens and 4 pens were populated with RO hens, creating 4 treatment combinations (RRLR, RRLO, ROLR, ROLO). From each pen, 15 focal hens were selected for radiographic imaging of their keel bones taken at 21, 36, 45, and 60 WOA and the images were subsequently scored for KBF severity. Focal hens were also scored for feather condition and footpad quality at 36 and 60 WOA using a standardized welfare assessment protocol. The number of downward transitions among aviary areas and falls were recorded at 19 to 20 and 30 to 31 WOA. Data were analyzed using (generalized) linear mixed models in R software. When ramps were available, they were used in most of the observed downward transitions (79% in ROLR and 86% in RRLR). Hens who received ramps in lay (i.e., RRLR and ROLR) showed more transitions immediately after lights on compared to midday or dusk phases (p < 0.001), performed more transitions from the first aviary tier compared to nest or top tier (p = 0.013) and had lower KBF severity than those who did not receive ramps in the laying aviaries (ROLO, RRLO; p < 0.001). At 60 WOA, hens in the RRLR treatment had greater feather coverage than those in ROLR and RRLO treatments (p < 0.001). Birds in the RRLR treatment had better foot health overall than those in treatments without ramps in lay (p = 0.018). Providing ramps to hens in aviaries appeared to be the preferred means of transitioning between aviary tiers though had positive effects on welfare parameters such as food health, feather coverage, and KBF severity, without negative impacts on production. Benefits were seen primarily when ramps were provided in lay, though their installation in rearing provided evidence of easier adaptation to the laying barn. Our study supports providing ramps throughout the lifetime of the bird to accommodate hens' preferred means of moving vertically in aviaries and deliver consequent benefits to health and welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Toscano
- Center for Proper Housing: Poultry and Rabbits (ZTHZ), Division of Animal Welfare, VPH-Institute, University of Bern, Zollikofen, Switzerland.
| | - A S Jalali
- Commercial Farm Preventative Veterinary Care Service, Sari, Iran
| | - J M Siegford
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - A Stratmann
- Center for Proper Housing: Poultry and Rabbits (ZTHZ), Division of Animal Welfare, VPH-Institute, University of Bern, Zollikofen, Switzerland
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2
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Montalcini CM, Toscano MJ, Asher L, Petelle MB. Keel bone fractures affect laying hens' mobility, but no evidence for reciprocal effects. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306384. [PMID: 38968298 PMCID: PMC11226069 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Keel bone fractures (KBF) are prevalent in commercial laying hens and are considered one of the greatest welfare concerns in the egg-production industry. While clear associations exist between KBF and animal mobility, suggesting that KBF impair mobility, the effect of mobility on KBF remains unclear. We combined data from three studies that assessed keel bone fracture severity through radiographs and monitored hens' transitions between different zones of a multi-tier aviary system (the three tiers, a littered floor, and a winter garden) the week prior to radiograph. For each hen, we extracted two daily movement behaviours: the vertical distance travelled and the mean number of zones crossed within one transition; and two daily space-use behaviours: the time spent in the top tier and the unevenness of time spent across zones. We used hierarchical Bayesian continuous time dynamic modelling to estimate how a change in a behaviour predicted a later change in keel bone fracture severity, and vice versa. Increased fracture severity did not predict later changes in space-use behaviours, but it did predict changes in movement behaviours. Specifically, increased fracture severity led to decreased vertical travelled distance and a tendency to cross more zones within one transition, suggesting impaired mobility in hens with increased fracture severity. In contrast, we found no evidence that movement or space-use behaviours predict later change in fracture severity, challenging previous literature suggesting that vertical locomotion through jumping and flying may exacerbate keel bone fractures in complex three-dimensional systems due to increased risk of collisions. However, similar efforts accounting for the location of fractures on the keel could unveil the potential influence of movement and space-use behaviours in the formation and change (healing or worsening) of KBF and increase our ability to mitigate their effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille M. Montalcini
- ZTHZ, Division of Animal Welfare, VPH Institute, University of Bern, Zollikofen, Switzerland
- Graduate School of Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Michael J. Toscano
- ZTHZ, Division of Animal Welfare, VPH Institute, University of Bern, Zollikofen, Switzerland
| | - Lucy Asher
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew B. Petelle
- ZTHZ, Division of Animal Welfare, VPH Institute, University of Bern, Zollikofen, Switzerland
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Montalcini CM, Petelle MB, Toscano MJ. Commercial hatchery practices have long-lasting effects on laying hens' spatial behaviour and health. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0295560. [PMID: 38117840 PMCID: PMC10732460 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The commercial hatchery process is globally standardized and exposes billions of day-old layer chicks to stress every year. By alleviating this early stress, on-farm hatching is thought to improve animal welfare, yet little is known about its effects throughout production. This study compared welfare indicators and spatial behaviours during the laying period of hens hatched in an on-farm environment (OFH) to those hatched in a commercial hatchery and transferred at one day-old to a rearing barn (STAN). In particular, we assessed how OFH and TRAN hens differed in space-use and movement behaviours following the transfer to the laying barn at 17 weeks of age, a similar stressor encountered by STAN hens early in life, and determined whether effects aligned more with the 'silver-spoon' or 'environmental matching' hypothesis. We found that for the first three months post-transfer into the laying barn, OFH hens, on average, transitioned less between the aviary's tiers and spent less time on the littered floor. Because OFH hens became behaviourally more similar to STAN hens over time, these results suggest that OFH hens required a prolonged period to establish their daily behavioural patterns. Furthermore, OFH hens had more severe keel bone fractures throughout the laying period but similar feather damage and body mass to STAN hens. No differences were found in hen mortality or the number of eggs per live hen. These findings support the environmental matching hypothesis and suggest that early-life stressors may have prepared hens for later-life stressors, underscoring the importance of both early-life and adult environments in enhancing animal welfare throughout production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille M. Montalcini
- ZTHZ, Division of Animal Welfare, VPH Institute, University of Bern, Zollikofen, Switzerland
- Graduate School of Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Matthew B. Petelle
- ZTHZ, Division of Animal Welfare, VPH Institute, University of Bern, Zollikofen, Switzerland
| | - Michael J. Toscano
- ZTHZ, Division of Animal Welfare, VPH Institute, University of Bern, Zollikofen, Switzerland
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4
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Pulcini D, Mattioli S, Angelucci E, Chenggang W, Cartoni Mancinelli A, Napolitano R, Sirri F, Piscitelli R, Mugnai C, Castellini C. Shape and fractures of carina sterni in chicken genotypes with different egg deposition rates reared indoor or free-range. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22495. [PMID: 38110659 PMCID: PMC10728074 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49909-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Commercial laying hens have high frequency of damage to the keel bone (KB), which causes negative effects on health and welfare. KB damage may consist in fractures (KBF) and deviations (KBD). The aim of the present study was to compare the KB shape, by means of Geometric Morphometric, and the occurrence of fractures in different chicken genotypes reared either free-range (FR) or in enriched cages. Moreover, the relationship between KB shape, genotype and rearing system was analysed. Sixty birds/genotype (2 Italian local breeds, Bionda Piemontese and Robusta Maculata, their crossbreeds with Sasso and Lohmann Brown) were used. All the hens fed the same commercial feed throughout the trial. Body weight, egg production, feed intake and mortality were recorded from 25 to 66 weeks of age. Ca intake (IN) and output (OUT) were estimated and Ca OUT/IN was calculated. FR affected the occurrence of KB deviations but not the shape, whereas the fractures were mainly affected by genotype. Local breeds had a lower prevalence of KBF with similar level of KBD but with different shapes. Crossbreeds seemed to be a suitable compromise between egg deposition rate and occurrence of KB damages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domitilla Pulcini
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Animal Production and Aquaculture, 00015, Monterotondo, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Mattioli
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, 06100, Perugia, Italy.
| | - Elisa Angelucci
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, 06100, Perugia, Italy
| | - Wei Chenggang
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, 06100, Perugia, Italy
| | - Alice Cartoni Mancinelli
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, 06100, Perugia, Italy
| | - Riccardo Napolitano
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Animal Production and Aquaculture, 00015, Monterotondo, Rome, Italy
| | - Federico Sirri
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Italy
| | - Raffaela Piscitelli
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, 40064, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Italy
| | - Cecilia Mugnai
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, 10095, Turin, Italy
| | - Cesare Castellini
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, 06100, Perugia, Italy
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5
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Ciarelli C, Pillan G, Bordignon F, Xiccato G, Birolo M, Trocino A. Space use and navigation ability of hens at housing in the aviary for the laying phase: effect of enrichment with additional perches and genotype. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102962. [PMID: 37683449 PMCID: PMC10498002 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study tested the hypothesis that increased availability of perches could favor the adaptation and navigation ability of pullets of different genotypes at housing in a new aviary system for the laying phase. To this purpose, 900 Lohmann White-LSL and 900 Hy-line Brown were randomly allocated at 17 wk of age in 8 pens of an experimental aviary, according to a bifactorial arrangement with 2 genotypes (Brown vs. White) × 2 types of pens (enriched or not enriched with additional perches besides those of the aviary). Data collected between 17 and 20 wk of age showed that the enrichment with additional perches decreased the use of the aviary perches while the rate of successful landings/take-offs was unaffected. As for the effect of genotype, during the night a lower rate of hens on the floor (0.15 vs. 6.63%) and a higher rate of hens on the additional perches (2.47 vs. 0.98%) was found in White compared to Brown hens (P < 0.001); the former hens also used the third tiers for sleeping on the aviary uppermost perches (P < 0.001). During the day, White hens used more the third tier (32.8 vs. 15.6%; P < 0.001) and the additional perches (3.88 vs. 0.91%; P < 0.01) compared to Brown hens, while they stood less on the floor (18.3 vs. 22.6%; P < 0.05). White hens performed a significantly higher number of landings (80.7 vs. 21.9; P < 0.001) and of take-offs (74.3 vs. 10.0; P < 0.001) per pen compared to Brown hens. The risk of unsuccessful landings was higher in Brown compared to White hens (odd ratio: 6.65; 95% confidence interval: 4.36-10.1; P < 0.001). In conclusion, the enrichment with additional perches played a major role in hen distribution and space use than in their navigation ability. At the same time, the significant differences between the 2 genotypes call for a careful evaluation of the aviary design and animal management to optimize welfare at housing and possibly productive results of laying hens.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Ciarelli
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - G Pillan
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - F Bordignon
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - G Xiccato
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - M Birolo
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - A Trocino
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy; Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy.
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6
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Rentsch AK, Ross E, Harlander A, Niel L, Siegford JM, Widowski TM. The development of laying hen locomotion in 3D space is affected by early environmental complexity and genetic strain. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10084. [PMID: 37344513 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35956-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult laying hens are increasingly housed in spatially complex systems, e.g., non-cage aviaries, where locomotion between elevated structures can be challenging for these gallinaceous birds. This study assessed the effect of early environmental complexity on spatial skills in two genetic strains. Brown (B) and white (W) feathered birds were raised in: Conventional cages with minimal complexity (Conv) or rearing aviaries with low (Low), intermediate (Mid), or high complexity (High). Birds from each housing treatment were challenged at three different time points in three different, age-appropriate vertical spatial tasks. Whites performed better than brown birds in all tests regardless of rearing environment. In chicks, test performance was predominantly explained by variation between replicates and differences in motivation for test participation. Treatment effects were seen in pubertal birds (pullets), with pullets from aviaries performing better than those from Conv. White High pullets performed better than white Mid or Low, an effect that was not found in browns. Pullets preferred to use a ramp to move downwards, but only when ramps had previously been experienced and when the ramp was not too steep. Overall, early environmental complexity affected spatial skills of laying hen pullets with stronger effects in white than brown feathered birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana K Rentsch
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Erin Ross
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | | | - Lee Niel
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Janice M Siegford
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Tina M Widowski
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.
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7
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Ren Y, Zhao T, Zhang K, Zhu Z, Li L, Li Y, Jiang S, Jiao N, Yang W. Effect of replacing dicalcium phosphate with mono-dicalcium phosphate to supplement phosphorus on laying performance, phosphorus-calcium metabolism and bone metabolism of aged laying hens. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1196334. [PMID: 37332735 PMCID: PMC10275408 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1196334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of replacing dicalcium phosphate (DCP) with mono-dicalcium phosphate (MDCP) to formulate low-phosphorus (P) diets on laying performance, egg quality, phosphorus-calcium metabolism, and bone metabolism of 69-78-week-old aged laying hens. Hy-Line Brown laying hens (n = 1,350, 69 weeks old) were randomly assigned to six treatments, each with five replicates of 45 hens. A corn-soybean meal-based diet was formulated to contain 0.12% non-phytate phosphorus (NPP), 3.81% calcium (Ca), and 1,470 FTU/kg phytase. The control group (CON) was supplemented with DCP inorganic phosphorus (Pi) at the NPP level of 0.20% (dietary NPP levels of 0.32%). Test groups (T1-T5) were supplemented with MDCP Pi at NPP levels of 0.07%, 0.11%, 0.15%, 0.18, and 0.20% (dietary NPP levels of 0.19, 0.23, 0.27, 0.30, and 0.32%, respectively). Calcium carbonate levels were adjusted to ensure all experimental diets contained the same Ca levels (3.81%). The feeding trial lasted 10 weeks, with hens increasing in age from 69 to 78 weeks. When supplemented with 1,470 FTU/kg phytase, extra DCP Pi or MDCP Pi did not affect (p > 0.05) laying performance (day laying rate, average egg weight, feed intake, feed-to-egg mass ratio, broken egg rate), egg quality (eggshell strength, albumen height, haugh units), or serum P, Ca, copper (Cu), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn) levels. However, when laying hens were fed MDCP Pi (NPP levels of 0.07 to 0.20%), yolk color improved (p = 0.0148). The tibia breaking strength was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the 0.18 and 0.20% NPP MDCP Pi groups than in the 0.20% NPP DCP Pi group. The breaking strength, Ca content, and P content of tibia in 0.11% and 0.15% NPP MDCP Pi hens were not significantly (p > 0.05) different from those in 0.20% NPP DCP Pi hens. Hens fed 0.07% NPP MDCP Pi had higher (p < 0.01) serum levels of osteoprotegerin (OPG), type-I collagen c-telopeptide (CTX-I), and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP-5b) than those in all other groups. Serum levels of TRACP-5b and CTX-I in the 0.11% and 0.15% NPP MDCP Pi group were significantly lower than those in 0.18 and 0.20% NPP MDCP Pi groups and the 0.20% NPP DCP Pi group (p < 0.0001). Hens fed 0.07% and 0.11% NPP MDCP Pi had higher (p < 0.05) serum levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) than those in all other groups. No differences were detected in serum calcitonin (CT), 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D3 (1,25-(OH)2D3), bone alkaline phosphatase (BAP), osteocalcin(OCN), and osteopontin (OPN) among all groups (p > 0.05). The expression of P transporters type IIa Na/Pi cotransporter (NaPi-IIa) in 0.11% and 0.15% NPP MDCP Pi hens were higher than those in 0.20% NPP MDCP Pi group and 0.20% NPP DCP Pi group (p < 0.05). The results indicated that both renal P reabsorption and bone resorption were involved in adapting to a low-P diet. In summary, when MDCP was used instead of DCP to supplement P, NPP levels could be reduced to 0.11% (dietary NPP level of 0.23%) without negative effects on laying performance and skeletal health of aged hens. In addition, MDCP was more beneficial than DCP for tibia quality. The results of the current study would provide references for the application of MDCP in low-P diets of aged laying hens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuechang Ren
- Department of Animal Sciences and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Tianyu Zhao
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Kaiying Zhang
- Department of Animal Sciences and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Zhengqi Zhu
- Department of Animal Sciences and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Linkui Li
- Laiyang Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Bureau, Yantai, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Animal Sciences and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Shuzhen Jiang
- Department of Animal Sciences and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Ning Jiao
- Department of Animal Sciences and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Weiren Yang
- Department of Animal Sciences and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
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8
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van Staaveren N, Tobalske BW, Brost J, Sharma R, Beaufrère H, Elias A, Harlander-Matauschek A. Biomechanics of landing in injured and uninjured chickens and the role of meloxicam. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102794. [PMID: 37307632 PMCID: PMC10276282 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Birds use their legs and wings when transitioning from aerial to ground locomotion during landing. To improve our understanding of the effects of footpad dermatitis (FPD) and keel bone fracture (KBF) upon landing biomechanics in laying hens, we measured ground-reaction forces generated by hens (n = 37) as they landed on force plates (Bertec Corporation, Columbus, OH) from a 30 cm drop or 170 cm jump in a single-blinded placebo-controlled trial using a cross-over design where birds received an anti-inflammatory (meloxicam, 5 mg/kg body mass) or placebo treatment beforehand. We used generalized linear mixed models to test for effects of health status, treatment and their interaction on landing velocity (m/s), maximum resultant force (N), and impulse (force integrated with respect to time [N s]). Birds with FPD and KBF tended to show divergent alterations to their landing biomechanics when landing from a 30 cm drop, with a higher landing velocity and maximum force in KBF compared to FPD birds, potentially indicative of efforts to either reduce the use of their wings or impacts on inflamed footpads. In contrast, at 170 cm jumps fewer differences between birds of different health statuses were observed likely due to laying hens being poor flyers already at their maximum power output. Our results indicate that orthopedic injuries, apart from being welfare issues on their own, may have subtle influences on bird mobility through altered landing biomechanics that should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nienke van Staaveren
- Department of Animal Biosciences, Ontario Agricultural College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bret W Tobalske
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Jacob Brost
- Department of Animal Biosciences, Ontario Agricultural College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rahul Sharma
- Department of Animal Biosciences, Ontario Agricultural College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hugues Beaufrère
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Epidemiology, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Audrey Elias
- School of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Science, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
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9
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Putyora E, Brocklehurst S, Tuyttens F, Sandilands V. The Effects of Mild Disturbances on Sleep Behaviour in Laying Hens. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13071251. [PMID: 37048507 PMCID: PMC10093027 DOI: 10.3390/ani13071251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The positive welfare of commercial animals presents many benefits, making the accurate assessment of welfare important. Assessments frequently use behaviour to determine welfare state; however, nighttime behaviours are often ignored. Sleep behaviour may offer new insights into welfare assessments. This study aimed to establish a baseline for sleep behaviour in laying hens and to then apply mild short-term disturbances and observe the subsequent effects. Twelve laying hens were divided into four batches and were surgically implanted with electroencephalogram (EEG) devices to record their brain activity. The batches were subjected to undisturbed, disturbed and recovery types of nights. Disturbed nights consisted of systematic sequences of disturbance application (wind, 90 dB noise or 20 lux light) applied one at a time for 5 min every 30 min from 21:00 to 03:00 (lights off period: 19:00-05:00). Sleep state was scored using EEG data and behaviour data from infrared cameras. Over all the types of night hens engaged in both SWS (58%) and REM sleep (18%) during lights off. When applied, the disturbances were effective at altering the amounts of wakefulness and SWS (Time × Type of Night, p < 0.001, p = 0.017, respectively), whereas REM sleep was unaltered (p = 0.540). There was no evidence of carry-over effects over the following day or night. Laying hens may be resilient to short-term sleep disruption by compensating for this in the same night, suggesting that these disturbances do not impact their long-term welfare (i.e., over days). Sleep behaviour potentially offers a unique means of assessing an aspect of animal welfare that, to date, has been poorly studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Endre Putyora
- Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
- Department of Agriculture, Horticulture and Engineering Sciences, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), Edinburgh EH25 9RG, UK
| | | | - Frank Tuyttens
- Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
- Animal Sciences Unit, Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), 9090 Melle, Belgium
| | - Victoria Sandilands
- Department of Agriculture, Horticulture and Engineering Sciences, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), Edinburgh EH25 9RG, UK
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10
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Rentsch AK, Ellis JL, Widowski TM. Fearfulness in Commercial Laying Hens: A Meta-Analysis Comparing Brown and White Egg Layers. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102664. [PMID: 37058921 PMCID: PMC10123257 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
High fearfulness in commercial laying hens can negatively affect production parameters and animal welfare. Brown and white egg layers differ in several behavioral characteristics, though reported differences in fearfulness are inconsistent. A meta-analysis was conducted to determine whether there are systematic differences in measures of fearfulness between brown and white layers. Twenty-three studies that examined either 1 or both of 2 behavioral tests were included: tonic immobility (TI) (longer duration = higher fearfulness, 16 studies) and novel object (NO) test (lower approach rate = higher fearfulness, 11 studies). The 2 tests were analyzed separately. TI analyses: A generalized linear mixed effect model (GLMM) with a lognormal distribution was fitted to describe the data with experiment nested in study as a random effect. Explanatory (X) variables were considered through backward selection, where potential X-variables included color (brown vs. white layers), decade (1980s, 2000s, 2020s), age (prelay vs. in lay), genetic stock (hybrid vs. grand-/parent stock), and methodology (back vs. side position). NO test analyses: univariable GLMMs with a beta distribution were fitted with approach rate as the Y-variable and color, decade, age, stock, or 2 methodological factors (test duration, single vs. group testing) as X-variables. Models were evaluated by assessing information criteria, residuals/random effect normality, significance of X-variables and model evaluation statistics (mean square prediction error, concordance correlation coefficient). TI duration was best explained by a color-by-decade interaction (P = 0.0006). Whites in the 1980s had longer TI durations (709.43 ± 143.88 s) than browns in the 1980s (282.90 ± 59.70 s), as well as in comparison to browns (208.80 ± 50.82 s) or whites (204.85 ± 49.60 s) in the 2020s. The NO approach rate was best explained by color (P ≤ 0.05 in 3 models), age (P < 0.05 in 3 models), and decade (P = 0.04). Whites had a higher approach rate (0.7 ± 0.07) than browns (0.5 ± 0.11), birds in lay a higher rate (0.8 ± 0.07) than birds prelay (0.4 ± 0.12), and approach rate for papers published in the 2000s (0.8 ± 0.09) was higher than in the 2020s (0.2 ± 0.12). The phylogenetic difference in the 1980s was no longer detectable after enforcing an upper limit on TI durations (10 min), as became common practice in later studies. Our findings suggest that phylogenetic differences in fearfulness and changes over time are test dependent, and this raises important questions and potential consequences for assessing hen welfare in commercial egg production.
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Kittelsen KE, Toftaker I, Tahamtani F, Moe RO, Thøfner I, Vasdal G. Keel bone fractures in broiler breeders: is palpation a reliable diagnostic method? Avian Pathol 2023; 52:78-83. [PMID: 36415970 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2022.2147416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to estimate the sensitivity and specificity of palpation relative to necropsy for detection of keel bone fractures (KBF) in broiler breeders. In addition, the study investigated observer reliability of palpation. Four commercial breeder flocks (Ross 308 n = 2, Ranger Gold n = 1, Hubbard JA 757, n = 1) were included in the study. A total of 400 hens and 60 roosters were examined after culling or slaughter, at end of lay (63 weeks). Keel bones were first palpated independently by two raters with a varying degree of experience in palpation of keel bones in laying hens. After palpation, a necropsy with investigation of the keel bone was conducted. The prevalence of KBF at end of lay for hens, as diagnosed by necropsy, varied from 14-58%, while only one in 60 assessed roosters had KBF. Palpation had poor sensitivity, with differences between raters ranging from 56% to 36% when hybrid is not considered. The specificity of palpation for all hybrids together was 85% and 88%, for the two raters, respectively. The two raters had moderate agreement, Gwet's agreement coefficient (95% confidence interval): 0.60 (0.52-0.69). In conclusion, palpation has poor diagnostic accuracy for detection of KBF in broiler breeders, and other methods, like necropsy, must be applied for reliable assessments. KBF appears to be a prevalent condition in different hybrids of broiler breeder hens, but not in roosters.RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS This is the first study to investigate palpation as a diagnostic method for detection of KBF in broiler breeders.Palpation has poor diagnostic accuracy for detection of KBF in broiler breeder hens with differences between raters.KBF can be a prevalent problem in broiler breeder hens of several hybrids, but not in roosters.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ingrid Toftaker
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, NMBU-Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Randi Oppermann Moe
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, NMBU-Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ida Thøfner
- Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Guro Vasdal
- Animalia- The Norwegian Meat and Poultry Research Centre, Oslo, Norway
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Canali E, Drewe JA, Garin‐Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Schmidt CG, Herskin MS, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Padalino B, Pasquali P, Roberts HC, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Velarde A, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Tiemann I, de Jong I, Gebhardt‐Henrich SG, Keeling L, Riber AB, Ashe S, Candiani D, García Matas R, Hempen M, Mosbach‐Schulz O, Rojo Gimeno C, Van der Stede Y, Vitali M, Bailly‐Caumette E, Michel V. Welfare of broilers on farm. EFSA J 2023; 21:e07788. [PMID: 36824680 PMCID: PMC9941850 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2023.7788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
This Scientific Opinion considers the welfare of domestic fowl (Gallus gallus) related to the production of meat (broilers) and includes the keeping of day-old chicks, broiler breeders, and broiler chickens. Currently used husbandry systems in the EU are described. Overall, 19 highly relevant welfare consequences (WCs) were identified based on severity, duration and frequency of occurrence: 'bone lesions', 'cold stress', 'gastro-enteric disorders', 'group stress', 'handling stress', 'heat stress', 'isolation stress', 'inability to perform comfort behaviour', 'inability to perform exploratory or foraging behaviour', 'inability to avoid unwanted sexual behaviour', 'locomotory disorders', 'prolonged hunger', 'prolonged thirst', 'predation stress', 'restriction of movement', 'resting problems', 'sensory under- and overstimulation', 'soft tissue and integument damage' and 'umbilical disorders'. These WCs and their animal-based measures (ABMs) that can identify them are described in detail. A variety of hazards related to the different husbandry systems were identified as well as ABMs for assessing the different WCs. Measures to prevent or correct the hazards and/or mitigate each of the WCs are listed. Recommendations are provided on quantitative or qualitative criteria to answer specific questions on the welfare of broilers and related to genetic selection, temperature, feed and water restriction, use of cages, light, air quality and mutilations in breeders such as beak trimming, de-toeing and comb dubbing. In addition, minimal requirements (e.g. stocking density, group size, nests, provision of litter, perches and platforms, drinkers and feeders, of covered veranda and outdoor range) for an enclosure for keeping broiler chickens (fast-growing, slower-growing and broiler breeders) are recommended. Finally, 'total mortality', 'wounds', 'carcass condemnation' and 'footpad dermatitis' are proposed as indicators for monitoring at slaughter the welfare of broilers on-farm.
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Jones CT, Pullin AN, Blatchford RA, Makagon MM, Horback K. Effects of rearing with vertical structures on the ontogeny of depth perception in laying hens. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2023.105837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Vasdal G, Gebhardt-Henrich S, Tahamtani F, Kittelsen K. Perch use in commercial broiler breeders – Preference for perch material and effect of age. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Vasdal G, Gebhardt-Henrich S, Kittelsen KE, Tahamtani FM. Commercial broiler breeder pullet hens use perches but show no preference for perch type or height. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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16
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Güz BC, de Jong IC, Da Silva CS, Veldkamp F, Kemp B, Molenaar R, van den Brand H. Effects of pen enrichment on leg health of fast and slower-growing broiler chickens. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254462. [PMID: 34941896 PMCID: PMC8700046 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Pen enrichment for broiler chickens is one of the potential strategies to stimulate locomotion and consequently contribute to better leg health and welfare. This study was designed to evaluate effects of using a plethora of pen enrichments (barrier perches, angular ramps, horizontal platforms, large distance between feed and water and providing live Black Soldier fly larvae in a dustbathing area) on tibia characteristics, locomotion, leg health and home pen behaviour of fast and slower-growing broiler chickens. The experiment was set up as a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement with a total of 840 male broiler chickens in a complete randomized design (7 pens per treatment and 30 chickens per pen) with the following treatments: 1) pen enrichment (enriched pen or non-enriched pen); 2) broiler strain (fast-growing Ross 308 or slower-growing Hubbard JA 757). Home pen behaviour and use of enrichment were observed. At approximately 1400 and 2200 g body weight, two chickens per pen were randomly selected and slaughtered, to investigate tibia morphological, biophysical and mechanical characteristics and leg health. Pen enrichment positively affected tibia biophysical characteristics, e.g., osseous volume (Δ = 1.8 cm3, P = 0.003), total volume (Δ = 1.4 cm3, P = 0.03) and volume fraction (Δ = 0.02%, P = 0.002), in both fast and slower-growing chickens, suggesting that pen enrichment particularly affects ossification and mineralization mechanisms. Accordingly, locomotion and active behaviours were positively influenced by pen enrichment. However, pen enrichment resulted in lower body weight gain in both strains, which might be due to higher activity or lower feed intake as a result of difficulties of crossing the barrier perches. Regarding the strain, slower-growing chickens showed consistently more advanced tibia characteristics and more active behaviour than fast-growing chickens. It can be concluded that pen enrichment may lead to more activity and better bone development in both fast and slower-growing chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahadır Can Güz
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Gelderland, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | - Ingrid C. de Jong
- Wageningen Livestock Research, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Gelderland, The Netherlands
| | - Carol Souza Da Silva
- Wageningen Livestock Research, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Gelderland, The Netherlands
| | - Fleur Veldkamp
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Gelderland, The Netherlands
| | - Bas Kemp
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Gelderland, The Netherlands
| | - Roos Molenaar
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Gelderland, The Netherlands
| | - Henry van den Brand
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Gelderland, The Netherlands
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Makinde TO, Adewole DI. Can feed additives be used to promote positive behaviour in laying hens? A review. WORLD POULTRY SCI J 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/00439339.2022.2003171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Taiwo O. Makinde
- Department of Animal Science and Aquaculture, Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Deborah I. Adewole
- Department of Animal Science and Aquaculture, Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Chew J, Widowski T, Herwig E, Shynkaruk T, Schwean-Lardner K. The effect of light intensity on the body weight, keel bone quality, tibia bone strength, and mortality of brown and white feathered egg-strain pullets reared in perchery systems. Poult Sci 2021; 100:101464. [PMID: 34607147 PMCID: PMC8493581 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2021.101464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of the musculoskeletal system is influenced by bird activity, which can be impacted by light intensity (L). The objective of this study was to determine the effect of L on the growth and bone health of Lohmann Brown-Lite (LB) and Lohmann LSL-Lite (LW) pullets. Three L treatments (10, 30 or 50 lux, provided by white LED lights) were used in a Randomized Complete Block Design in 2 repeated trials. LB and LW (n = 1,800 per strain [S]) were randomly assigned to floor pens (50 pullets per pen; 12 pen replicates per L × S) within 6 light-tight rooms from 0 to 16 wk. Each pen contained 4 parallel perches and a ramp. Data collected include cumulative mortality, BW at 0, 8, and 16 wk, and uniformity, keel bone damage (KBD; deviations, fractures), breast muscle weight, and tibiae bone strength at 16 wk. Tibiae bone resistance to mechanical stress was assessed using a three-point-bending test. The effect of L, S, and their interactions were analyzed using Proc Mixed (SAS 9.4) and differences were considered significant when P < 0.05. L did not affect BW, KBD, or mortality. An interaction between L and S was observed for bone stress (bone strength relative to bone size), however, in general, LW pullets had greater resistance to bone stress (peak noted at 30 lux) than LB (peak at 50 lux). LB pullets were heavier than LW at 8 and 16 wk. There were no S differences on KBD from palpated or dissected keel bones. LB pullets had higher breast muscle weight and heavier tibiae than LW, however relative to BW, LW had a higher percentage of breast muscle and a longer and thicker tibiae than LB. LW had higher mortality during the first wk but there was no relationship to L. Conclusively, the results suggest that L, within a range of 10 to 50 lux, does not affect pullet BW or KBD, however S may affect both parameters, as well as bone strength.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Chew
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon S7N 5A8, Canada
| | - T Widowski
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - E Herwig
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon S7N 5A8, Canada
| | - T Shynkaruk
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon S7N 5A8, Canada
| | - K Schwean-Lardner
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon S7N 5A8, Canada.
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Wall H, Boyner M, de Koning DJ, Kindmark A, McCormack HA, Fleming RH, Lopes Pinto F, Tauson R. Integument, mortality, and skeletal strength in extended production cycles for laying hens - effects of genotype and dietary zinc source. Br Poult Sci 2021; 63:115-124. [PMID: 34369224 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2021.1955329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
1. This study on long-life layers, covering the period 20-100 weeks of age, investigated longitudinal effects on mortality, layer integument, and skeletal properties in Bovans White (BoW) and Lohmann Selected Leghorn Classic (LSL), with or without supplementation with dietary organic zinc (Zn).2. Two experiments, using 1440 layers in furnished small group cages (FC) and 1836 layers in a traditional floor housing system (Floor), were run in parallel. Each replicate consisted of five adjacent cages containing eight hens in each FC, or a pen with 102 layers in the Floor group.3. Mortality was recorded daily. Integument and keel bone condition were scored at 35, 55, 85, and 100 weeks of age on 20% of the layers. Tibial strength was recorded from 933 layers at 100 weeks. Statistical analyses were performed on replicate means, with four to five and nine replicates per combination of hybrid and diet in Floor and FC groups, respectively.4. Cumulative mortality was 9.6% and 16.3% in FC and Floor, respectively, and increased in the latter part of the production cycle, particularly in the Floor group.5. In FC, LSL had inferior feather cover, less keel bone deviation, and shorter claws than BoW. In Floor, LSL had superior feather cover, less severe vent wounds, more bumble foot, and cleaner plumage than BoW. In both production systems, claws grew longer and keel bone deviation became more severe with age.6. In FC, layers fed organic Zn had lower body weight and less keel bone deviation at 100 weeks of age.7. In conclusion, keel bone integrity, claw length, and mortality rate are potential threats to welfare in long-life layers. Feather pecking is a problem that needs addressing at an early stage in the production period. On the whole, organic Zn did not improve welfare conditions in long-life layers.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Wall
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - M Boyner
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - D J de Koning
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - A Kindmark
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - H A McCormack
- The Roslin Institute and the Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies, Scotland, UK
| | - R H Fleming
- The Roslin Institute and the Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies, Scotland, UK
| | - F Lopes Pinto
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - R Tauson
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
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20
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Thøfner ICN, Dahl J, Christensen JP. Keel bone fractures in Danish laying hens: Prevalence and risk factors. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0256105. [PMID: 34388183 PMCID: PMC8362975 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0256105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Keel bone fractures (KBF) in commercial poultry production systems are a major welfare problem with possible economic consequences for the poultry industry. Recent investigations suggest that the overall situation may be worsening. Depending on the housing system, fracture prevalences exceeding 80% have been reported from different countries. No specific causes have yet been identified and this has consequently hampered risk factor identification. The objective of the current study was to investigate the prevalence of KBF in Danish layer hens and to identify risk factors in relation to KBF in all major productions systems, including parent stock production. For risk factor identification, production data from the included flocks was used. In total, 4794 birds from 40 flocks were investigated at end-of-lay. All birds were euthanized on farm and underwent inspection and palpation followed by necropsy. All observations were recorded and subsequently analysed using the SAS statistical software package. In flocks from non-caged systems, fracture prevalence in the range 53%-100%, was observed whereas the prevalence in flocks from enriched cages ranged between 50–98%. Furthermore, often multiple fractures (≥4) were observed in individual birds (range 5–81% of the birds with fractures) depending on the flock. The localization of the fractures at the distal end of the keel bone is highly consistent in all flocks (>96%). Macroscopically the fractures varied morphologically from an appearance with an almost total absence of callus, most frequently observed in caged birds, to large callus formations in and around the fracture lines, which was a typical finding in non-caged birds. Despite being housed under cage-free conditions, parent birds had significantly fewer fractures (all flocks were 60 weeks old) per bird, than other birds from cage-free systems. The body weight at end-of-lay had an effect on the risk of having fractures, heavy hens have significantly fewer fractures at end-of-lay. The older the hens were at onset of lay, the lower was the flock prevalence at end-of-lay. Additionally, the daily egg size at onset of lay was of importance for the risk of developing fractures, the production of heavier eggs initially, resulted in higher fracture prevalence at depopulation. The odds ratio of body weight, (+100 g) was 0.97, age at onset of lay (+1 week) was 0.87 and daily egg weight at onset (+1 gram) was 1.03. In conclusion, the study demonstrated a very high prevalence of KBF in hens from all production systems and identified hen size, age at onset of lay and daily egg weight at onset of lay to be major risk factors for development of KBF in the modern laying hen. Further research regarding this is warranted to strengthen the longevity and enhance the welfare of laying hens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida C. N. Thøfner
- Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- * E-mail:
| | - Jan Dahl
- Danish Agriculture & Food Council, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Peter Christensen
- Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Sharma MK, White D, Chen C, Kim WK, Adhikari P. Effects of the housing environment and laying hen strain on tibia and femur bone properties of different laying phases of Hy-Line hens. Poult Sci 2021; 100:100933. [PMID: 33518350 PMCID: PMC7936177 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the effect of the housing environment and laying hen strain on tibia and femur properties. A 3 × 2 factorial arrangement of 3 housing environments (conventional cages [CC], enriched colony cages [EC], and free range [FR]) and 2 laying hen strains (Hy-Line W-36 [W-36] and Hy-Line Brown [HB]) in a completely randomized design was conducted from 32 to 85 wk of age. Six left tibias were collected at 8 different time points (38, 45, 52, 59, 65, 72, 79, and 85 wk of age), whereas 6 left femurs were collected at 3 time points (38, 65, and 85 wk of age). Tibias were evaluated for tibia breaking strength (TBS) and ash percentage, whereas femurs were evaluated for bone mineral density (BMD), bone mineral content, bone volume as a fraction tissue volume, and porosity percentage from total, cortical, medullary, and trabecular bones. The higher TBS (P = 0.0005) and ash percentage (P = 0.045) was observed in hens raised in FR systems compared with those raised in the CC. Overall, TBS of W-36 hens was significantly greater than that of HB hens (P < 0.0001); however, there was no difference in the ash percentage between the strains (P > 0.05). An interaction between the housing environment and hen strain was observed for BMD (P = 0.04), wherein W-36 hens raised in the FR system had higher BMD than HB hens. Similarly, hens raised in FR systems had higher trabecular bone volume than those raised in CC (P = 0.022). Hen strain influenced total and cortical bone properties: BMD, bone volume as a fraction tissue volume, and porosity percentage, wherein W-36 hens had better properties than HB hens (P < 0.05). Trabecular BMD was higher in W-36 hens than in HB hens (P = 0.04), whereas bone volume was higher in HB hens (P < 0.0001). The results suggest that raising laying hens in alternative housing systems that have provision for exercise such as FR reduces structural bone loss, stimulate structural bone formation, and improve breaking strength of bones; however, it varies with the strain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milan K Sharma
- Department of Poultry Science, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| | - Dima White
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Chongxiao Chen
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Woo K Kim
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Pratima Adhikari
- Department of Poultry Science, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA.
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Singh M, Groves PJ. Welfare implications for barn (and aviary) egg production systems. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1071/an19634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Barn production systems in Australia are either an indoor-housing floor system or an aviary system with multilevel structures, equipped with nesting boxes, perches and feeding and watering systems. These systems offer hens the freedom of movement and an opportunity to display a repertoire of favourable behaviours as well as interact with complex housing elements as compared with caged systems. However, the system can create prospects for the hens to express detrimental behaviours such as feather pecking and cannibalism. Other aspects of welfare that may be compromised when compared with cage systems include incidence of fractures and injuries during navigation of hens among elements of housing that may result in collision or falls. Barn production systems may have an advantage over free-range production systems in relation to the protection they offer from predators and predator stress, and diseases and parasites that can be contracted from range areas. Barn systems also offer better biosecurity due to lack of direct access to wild birds and their faeces. The aim of the present review is to assess the welfare status of birds housed in barn (and aviary) production systems, while considering husbandry factors that affect welfare outcomes, the health and disease implications and sustainability. To maintain a high welfare outcome in barn production systems, it is important to keep the enclosed environmental conditions optimum by managing air quality, ventilation and lighting within sheds. Sustainability of these production systems depends on consumer preference, cost of production, environmental footprint and suitable genetics of hens.
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Campbell DLM. Skeletal health of layers across all housing systems and future research directions for Australia. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1071/an19578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Modern laying hens have been selected for an astounding rate of egg production, but the physiological calcium demand takes a significant toll on their skeletal health. Bones can be assessed both in vivo and ex vivo, using a combination of different structural and mechanical analysis methods. Typically, the properties of leg, wing and keel bones are measured. Conventional caged layers are restricted in movement, which imbalances structural bone resorption and new bone formation, resulting in osteoporosis. Hens within alternative housing systems have opportunities to exercise for strengthening bones, but they can also suffer from higher rates of keel fractures and/or deviations that are likely to have resulted from collisions or pressure force. Limited research has been conducted within Australian commercial housing systems to assess hen skeletal health, including prevalence of keel damage across different system types. Research conducted on both brown and white hen strains approximately within the past decade internationally (2009 onward) has shown that skeletal health is impaired across all housing systems. Keel-bone damage is of specific concern as it occurs at high rates, particularly in multi-tiered systems, is painful, can alter hen behaviour, and reduce both production and egg quality. Management strategies such as the provision of ramps to access perches and tiers can reduce the incidence of keel-bone damage to a degree. Bone strength can be improved through exercise opportunities, particularly when available during pullet rearing. Genetic selection for high bone strength may be necessary for hens to adequately adapt to loose-housed systems, but the best strategy for improving skeletal health is likely to be multifactorial.
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Gray H, Davies R, Bright A, Rayner A, Asher L. Why Do Hens Pile? Hypothesizing the Causes and Consequences. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:616836. [PMID: 33363246 PMCID: PMC7758342 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.616836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Piling is a behavior in laying hens whereby individuals aggregate in larger densities than would be normally expected. When piling behavior leads to mortalities it is known as smothering and its frequent but unpredictable occurrence is a major concern for many egg producers. There are generally considered to be three types of piling: panic, nest box and recurring piling. Whilst nest box and panic piling have apparent triggers, recurring piling does not, making it an enigmatic and ethologically intriguing behavior. The repetitive nature of recurring piling may result in a higher incidence of smothering and could have unconsidered, sub-lethal consequences. Here, we consider the possible causes of recurring piling from an ethological perspective and outline the potential welfare and production consequences. Drawing on a wide range of literature, we consider different timescales of causes from immediate triggers to ontogeny and domestication processes, and finally consider the evolution of collective behavior. By considering different timescales of influence, we built four hypotheses relevant to the causes of piling, which state that the behavior: (i) is caused by hens moving toward or away from an attractant/repellent; (ii) is socially influenced; (iii) is influenced by early life experiences and; (iv) can be described as a maladaptive collective behavior. We further propose that the following could be welfare consequences of piling behavior: Heat stress, physical injury (such as keel bone damage), and behavioral and physiological stress effects. Production consequences include direct and indirect mortality (smothering and knock-on effects of piling, respectively), potential negative impacts on egg quality and on worker welfare. In future studies the causes of piling and smothering should be considered according to the different timescales on which causes might occur. Here, both epidemiological and modeling approaches could support further study of piling behavior, where empirical studies can be challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Gray
- Asher Behaviour Lab, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Davies
- Asher Behaviour Lab, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Ashleigh Bright
- FAI Farms Ltd., The Barn, Wytham, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Ann Rayner
- FAI Farms Ltd., The Barn, Wytham, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy Asher
- Asher Behaviour Lab, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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25
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Kittelsen KE, Moe RO, Hansen TB, Toftaker I, Christensen JP, Vasdal G. A Descriptive Study of Keel Bone Fractures in Hens and Roosters from Four Non-Commercial Laying Breeds Housed in Furnished Cages. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10112192. [PMID: 33238563 PMCID: PMC7700571 DOI: 10.3390/ani10112192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence of keel bone fractures (KBF) in laying hens has been documented and discussed by several authors, nevertheless the causative factors behind KBF remain uncertain. High prevalence of KBF have been reported in all commercial egg production systems, in different genetic lines and at different ages. Several of the proposed causal mechanisms behind KBF are linked to selection for efficient production. It is, therefore, of interest to explore whether less selected breeds have a lower occurrence of keel bone fractures compared to reports from highly selected, modern laying hen breeds. Thus, the aim of the current study was to investigate keel bones of hens from four non-commercial layer breeds. Birds were housed in furnished cages and keel bones examined at 30 and 63 weeks of age, using a portable X-ray equipment. The results from this descriptive study indicate a low prevalence of KBF at both ages in all four breeds, with only five KBF detected in 213 X-ray pictures taken from 126 birds. Of these, four of the KBF were observed in the most genetically selected breed, with an early onset of lay. None of the roosters examined exhibited KBF. The overall low numbers of KBF found indicate that genetic factors may be involved in KBF and, thus that selective breeding may help to reduce the susceptibility to KBF. Finally, this study highlights the importance of poultry conservation to secure genetic diversity, which may be an important resource in future selection schemes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Käthe Elise Kittelsen
- Animalia—The Norwegian Meat and Poultry Research Centre, Lorenveien 38, NO-0585 Oslo, Norway; (T.B.H.); (G.V.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +47-906-05027
| | - Randi Oppermann Moe
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, NMBU—Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 8146 dep., NO-0033 Oslo, Norway; (R.O.M.); (I.T.)
| | - Tone Beate Hansen
- Animalia—The Norwegian Meat and Poultry Research Centre, Lorenveien 38, NO-0585 Oslo, Norway; (T.B.H.); (G.V.)
| | - Ingrid Toftaker
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, NMBU—Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 8146 dep., NO-0033 Oslo, Norway; (R.O.M.); (I.T.)
| | - Jens Peter Christensen
- Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1165 Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Guro Vasdal
- Animalia—The Norwegian Meat and Poultry Research Centre, Lorenveien 38, NO-0585 Oslo, Norway; (T.B.H.); (G.V.)
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26
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Toscano MJ, Dunn IC, Christensen JP, Petow S, Kittelsen K, Ulrich R. Explanations for keel bone fractures in laying hens: are there explanations in addition to elevated egg production? Poult Sci 2020; 99:4183-4194. [PMID: 32867962 PMCID: PMC7597989 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.05.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The current article served to provide the most up-to-date information regarding the causes of keel bone fracture. Although elevated and sustained egg production is likely a major contributing factor toward fractures, new information resulting from the development of novel methodologies suggests complementary causes that should be investigated. We identified 4 broad areas that could explain variation and increased fractures independent of or complementing elevated and sustained egg production: the age at first egg, late ossification of the keel, predisposing bone diseases, and inactivity leading to poor bone health. We also specified several topics that future research should target, which include continued efforts to link egg production and bone health, examination of noncommercial aves and traditional breeds, manipulating of age at first egg, a detailed histological and structural analysis of the keel, assessment of prefracture bone condition, and the relationship between individual activity patterns and bone health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Toscano
- Centre for Proper Housing of Poultry and Rabbits, VPHI Institute, Universität Bern, Zollikofen, 3052 Switzerland.
| | - Ian C Dunn
- The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, EH25 9RG Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Jens-Peter Christensen
- University of Copenhagen, Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Stefanie Petow
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health,Celle, Germany
| | - Kathe Kittelsen
- Animalia- the Norwegian Meat and Poultry Research Centre, N-0513 Oslo, Norway
| | - Reiner Ulrich
- Leipzig University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Pathology, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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27
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Rufener C, Makagon MM. Keel bone fractures in laying hens: a systematic review of prevalence across age, housing systems, and strains. J Anim Sci 2020; 98:S36-S51. [PMID: 32810250 PMCID: PMC7433929 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skaa145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Rufener
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Animal Welfare, University of California, Davis, CA
| | - Maja M Makagon
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Animal Welfare, University of California, Davis, CA
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28
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Petek M, Çavuşoğlu E. Welfare Assessment of Two Free-range Laying Hen Flocks in Turkey. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2020; 24:56-63. [PMID: 32643954 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2020.1790368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the prevalence of keel bone deviations and feather damage of laying hens in two different free-range housing systems under commercial conditions. Both of the free-range systems had an indoor barn and an outdoor range area. The floor of the indoor barn consisted of litter and either perches (litter and perch, LP) or slats (litter and slats, LS). The hens of both flocks were raised under identical conditions in the same house during the rearing period and then divided and transferred to two different free-range housing systems for the laying period. Examinations were conducted on the flocks at the end of the production cycle. Hens from the LP group had a greater prevalence of keel bone deviation and feather damage compared to hens from the LS group. The highest percentage of severe feather damage was found in the back and tail body regions in both flocks. The findings of this study are based upon the evaluation of two Turkish laying flocks. Therefore further research with more replicates of these treatments is needed to reach a general conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Metin Petek
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Turkey
| | - Enver Çavuşoğlu
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Turkey
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29
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Ali ABA, Campbell DLM, Siegford JM. A risk assessment of health, production, and resource occupancy for 4 laying hen strains across the lay cycle in a commercial-style aviary system. Poult Sci 2020; 99:4672-4684. [PMID: 32988502 PMCID: PMC7598334 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.05.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Different strains of commercial laying hens have been molded by varying selection pressures, impacting their production, health, and behavior. Therefore, assumptions that all laying hen strains use the given resources within aviary systems similarly and maintain equal health and performance may be false. We investigated interactions among patterns of aviary resource use by 2 strains of white and 2 strains of brown laying hens (4 units per strain, 144 hens per unit) with daily egg production, location of egg laying, keel fractures, and footpad damage across the lay cycle. Hens' distribution among resources (litter, nest, wire floor, ledge, and perch) was recorded during light and dark periods at 28, 54, and 72 wk of age. Daily egg production and location were recorded, and 20% of hens per unit were randomly selected and assessed for keel bone damage, foot health, and plumage quality. Production and health risks associated with hens' resource use were assessed using multivariable regression. During the day, more brown hens occupied wire floors, while larger numbers of white hens were on perches and litter. More brown hens were on lower-tier wire floors in the dark, while more white hens occupied top tiers. Brown hens laid more eggs outside nests, showed lower incidence of keel fractures, and had better plumage quality than white hens. White hens had higher odds of keel fractures (4.2) than brown hens. Odds of keel fractures were 3.7 and 5.7 times higher at 54 and 72 wk than at 28 wk in all strains (P ≤ 0.05). Occupying the upper tier at night increased odds of keel fractures by 5.4 times. Occupying perches was associated with lower odds of foot lesions and poor plumage quality in all strains across the lay cycle (P ≤ 0.05). Finally, white hens were associated with lower odds of non-nest laying (0.76), whereas higher nest use by brown hens resulted in higher odds of non-nest egg laying (1.56) across the lay cycle (P ≤ 0.05). Distinct strain differences in resource use in an aviary were associated with different risks to hens' production, health, and welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed B A Ali
- Animal and Veterinary Science Department, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA.
| | - Dana L M Campbell
- CSIRO, Agriculture and Food, New England Highway, Armidale, NSW 2350, Australia
| | - Janice M Siegford
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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30
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Chickens in motion: Effects of egg production level and pen size on the motor abilities and bone stability of laying hens (Gallus gallus forma domestica). Appl Anim Behav Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2020.104998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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31
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Purdum S, Eusebio P, Hanford K. The effects of 2 genetic lines on spatial distribution and use and preference of perch and nest area in an aviary system. Poult Sci 2020; 99:3328-3333. [PMID: 32616226 PMCID: PMC7597846 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.03.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this trial was to evaluate spatial distribution, nest and perch usage, and preference of Lohmann Brown (BH) and Bovan White (WH) Leghorn hens raised in an aviary system. At 5 wk, 400 floor raised pullets, BH and WH strains, in equal numbers, were placed into 8 modified Big Dutchman Natura aviary units. Each aviary unit had 3 tiers with perches and an indoor litter area. At 25 wk, the number of birds was recorded by scan sampling every 4 h. The number of birds perching in each aviary unit was recorded every 4 h at 15, 25, and 35 wk. The number of eggs laid was recorded daily from 22 to 53 wk. A split-plot factorial design with Poisson distribution was used for analysis of spatial distribution and perch preference. Nest and perch usage was analyzed using a split-plot factorial design with binomial distribution. There was an interaction (P < 0.0001) indicating that during late afternoon and night, a higher number of WH were observed in the middle and top tier while a higher number of BH were observed in the litter area and bottom tier at 25 wk. The odds of observing WH perching were higher than the odds of observing BH perching during late morning, late afternoon, and night at 15 wk, from early afternoon to night at 25 wk, and during all afternoon at 35 wk. WH had higher nest usage than BH expressed by the higher odds of observing eggs from the nest area (P = 0.071). There was a strain and egg location interaction (P < 0.0001) for number of eggs laid indicating that WH were laying more eggs in the nest area and litter floor area compared to BH, whereas BH were laying more eggs in the metal aviary wire tiers in comparison with WH. In conclusion, WH showed greater degree of adaptation to aviary systems than BH expressed by greater usage of perches and nest areas and elevated tiers.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Purdum
- University of Nebraska, Department of Animal Science, Lincoln, NE 68583.
| | - P Eusebio
- University of Nebraska, Department of Animal Science, Lincoln, NE 68583
| | - K Hanford
- University of Nebraska, Department of Statistics, Lincoln, NE 68583
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32
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Wei H, Bi Y, Xin H, Pan L, Liu R, Li X, Li J, Zhang R, Bao J. Keel fracture changed the behavior and reduced the welfare, production performance, and egg quality in laying hens housed individually in furnished cages. Poult Sci 2020; 99:3334-3342. [PMID: 32616227 PMCID: PMC7597854 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Keel fracture has adverse effects on welfare, behavior, health, production performance, and egg quality of laying hens. To investigate this, 90 healthy Lohmann white laying hens with normal keel bones at 17 wk of age (WOA) were used in this study and housed individually in furnished cages. All hens were marked with fractured keel (FK) or normal keel (NK) based on the keel bone status through palpation at 5 time-points (22, 27, 32, 37, and 42 WOA). After the palpation, the behavior was observed for 2 consecutive days at each time-point, and the total number of eggs produced, dirty eggs, broken eggs, and feed intake of FK and NK laying hens were recorded at 27–32, 32–37, and 37–42 WOA, respectively. After each behavioral observation, 10 fresh FK hens and 10 NK hens were randomly selected to determinate the welfare and egg quality. The results showed that the incidences of keel fracture increased with the age of laying hens. Compared with NK hens, the sitting and standing behaviors significantly increased (P < 0.05) while feeding, walking, perching, and jumping behaviors significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in FK hens. There were no significant changes in drinking, preening, comforting, cage pecking, and nesting behaviors between NK and FK hens (P > 0.05). During the experiment period, the egg production rate, body weight, daily feed intake, and eggshell strength, thickness, and weight decreased (P < 0.05) and duration of tonic immobility increased (P < 0.05) in FK hens compared with those in NK hens. At 27–32 WOA, FK hens had significantly elevated broken egg rate (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the dirty egg rate, egg shape index, protein height, Haugh unit, feather cover score, and toe and foot pad health score (P > 0.05). Therefore, keel fracture in laying hens caused changes in behavior and reduced the welfare, production performance, feed intake, and eggshell quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haidong Wei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China
| | - Yanju Bi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China
| | - Hongwei Xin
- Institute of Agriculture, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 37996 TN, USA
| | - Lei Pan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China
| | - Runze Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China
| | - Xiang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China
| | - Jianhong Li
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China
| | - Runxiang Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China.
| | - Jun Bao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, 150030 Harbin, China.
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Wang J, Qiu L, Gong H, Celi P, Yan L, Ding X, Bai S, Zeng Q, Mao X, Xu S, Wu C, Zhang K. Effect of dietary 25-hydroxycholecalciferol supplementation and high stocking density on performance, egg quality, and tibia quality in laying hens. Poult Sci 2020; 99:2608-2615. [PMID: 32359596 PMCID: PMC7597448 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2019.12.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2019] [Revised: 12/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was conducted to determine the effects of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25-OH-D3) on performance, egg quality, tibia quality, and serum hormones concentration in laying hens reared under high stocking density. A total of 800 45-week-old Lohmann laying hens were randomly allotted into a 2 × 2 factorial design with 2 levels of dietary 25-OH-D3 levels (0 and 69 μg/kg) and 2 rates of stocking densities [506 (low density) and 338 (high density) cm2/hen]. Laying hens were monitored for 16 wk. High stocking density decreased laying rate, egg weight, and feed intake compared with low stocking density (P < 0.01) during 1 to 8 wk and 1 to 16 wk. Overall, high stocking density increased eggshell lightness value and decreased shell redness and yellowness value, strength, thickness, and relative weight compared with low stocking density (P < 0.05). Dietary supplementation with 25-OH-D3 reduced the value of the eggshell lightness and increased its yellowness and eggshells weight (P ≤ 0.05). The increase in eggshell thickness was more pronounced when 25-OH-D3 was supplemented to layers under high stocking density (interaction, P < 0.05). Layers under high stocking density had lower ash content and calcium content in the tibia than layers under low stocking density (P = 0.04); dietary 25-OH-D3 increased tibia strength compared with no addition (P = 0.05). Layers under high stocking density had higher serum concentrations of 25-OH-D3, corticosterone (CORT), lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and osteocalcin (OC; P < 0.05), lower content of parathyroid hormone (PTH) compared with layers under low stocking density (P < 0.01). Dietary 25-OH-D3 increased serum concentration of 25-OH-D3, carbonic anhydrase (CA), and calcitonin (CT) (P < 0.01) and reduced corticosterone, lipopolysaccharide and osteocalcin concentration (P ≤ 0.05). The increase effect in PTH was more pronounced when 25-OH-D3 was supplemented to layers under high stocking density (interaction, P = 0.05). Overall, the results gathered in this study indicate that high stocking density result in reducing production performance, shell color and quality, and tibia health, whereas dietary 25-OH-D3 was able to maintain tibia health and to mitigate the negative impact of high stocking density on productive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianping Wang
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China.
| | - Lingyun Qiu
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Haojie Gong
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Pietro Celi
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia; DSM Nutrition Product, DSM Vitamin (Shanghai) Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Yan
- DSM Nutrition Product, DSM Vitamin (Shanghai) Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Xuemei Ding
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Shiping Bai
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Qiufeng Zeng
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Xiangbing Mao
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Shengyu Xu
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Caimei Wu
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Keying Zhang
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
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Thøfner I, Hougen HP, Villa C, Lynnerup N, Christensen JP. Pathological characterization of keel bone fractures in laying hens does not support external trauma as the underlying cause. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229735. [PMID: 32150551 PMCID: PMC7062247 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Keel bone fractures in laying hens have been described with increasing prevalence from several countries over the last twenty years and are considered one of the greatest welfare problems to the layer industry. In Denmark we have observed fracture prevalence in the range of 53% to 100% in flocks from cage-free systems whereas flock prevalences in birds from enriched cages ranged between 50-98%. Previous research have speculated that the underlying reason for the development of keel bone fractures is trauma in relation to impact of the bird with furniture, other equipment etc. However, little evidence of this theory has been provided. Predisposing factors have also been suggested including genetics of the bird, lack of specific feedstuff components, high egg production, management factors and layer fatigue. This study has addressed the possible pathogenesis of these fractures by pathological characterization of fractures in birds from different production systems. More than 60 keel bones with fractures have been characterized histo-pathologically and by CT scan. This included an assessment of damage to muscles and soft tissues, the bone and the healing process including callus formation. This investigation has shown that high energy collisions cannot be responsible for the majority of fractures, located at the caudal tip of the keel bone, observed in laying birds as markers associated trauma were not observed in the majority of the cases just as few recognized healing processes were observed. These results suggest an alternative pathogenesis to trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Thøfner
- Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hans Petter Hougen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Chiara Villa
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niels Lynnerup
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Peter Christensen
- Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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35
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Eusemann BK, Patt A, Schrader L, Weigend S, Thöne-Reineke C, Petow S. The Role of Egg Production in the Etiology of Keel Bone Damage in Laying Hens. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:81. [PMID: 32154276 PMCID: PMC7047165 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Keel bone fractures and deviations belong to the most severe animal welfare problems in laying hens and are influenced by several factors such as husbandry system and genetic background. It is likely that egg production also influences keel bone health due to the high demand of calcium for the eggshell, which is, in part, taken from the skeleton. The high estrogen plasma concentration, which is linked to the high laying performance, may also affect the keel bone as sexual steroids have been shown to influence bone health. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between egg production, genetically determined high laying performance, estradiol-17ß concentration, and keel bone characteristics. Two hundred hens of two layer lines differing in laying performance (WLA: high performing; G11: low performing) were divided into four treatment groups: Group S received an implant containing a GnRH agonist that suppressed egg production, group E received an implant containing the sexual steroid estradiol-17ß, group SE received both implants, and group C were kept as control hens. Between the 12th and the 62nd weeks of age, the keel bone of all hens was radiographed and estradiol-17ß plasma concentration was assessed at regular intervals. Non-egg laying hens showed a lower risk of keel bone fracture and a higher radiographic density compared to egg laying hens. Exogenous estradiol-17ß was associated with a moderately higher risk of fracture within egg laying but with a lower risk of fracture and a higher radiographic density within non-egg laying hens. The high performing layer line WLA showed a significantly higher fracture risk but also a higher radiographic density compared to the low performing layer line G11. In contrast, neither the risk nor the severity of deviations were unambiguously influenced by egg production or layer line. We assume that within a layer line, there is a strong association between egg production and keel bone fractures, and, possibly, bone mineral density, but not between egg production and deviations. Moreover, our results confirm that genetic background influences fracture prevalence and indicate that the selection for high laying performance may negatively influence keel bone health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonia Patt
- Institute of Animal Welfare and Animal Husbandry, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Celle, Germany
| | - Lars Schrader
- Institute of Animal Welfare and Animal Husbandry, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Celle, Germany
| | - Steffen Weigend
- Institute of Farm Animal Genetics, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Mariensee, Germany
| | - Christa Thöne-Reineke
- Institute of Animal Welfare, Animal Behavior and Laboratory Animal Science, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefanie Petow
- Institute of Animal Welfare and Animal Husbandry, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Celle, Germany
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Armstrong EA, Rufener C, Toscano MJ, Eastham JE, Guy JH, Sandilands V, Boswell T, Smulders TV. Keel bone fractures induce a depressive-like state in laying hens. Sci Rep 2020; 10:3007. [PMID: 32080271 PMCID: PMC7033198 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59940-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In commercial flocks of laying hens, keel bone fractures (KBFs) are prevalent and associated with behavioural indicators of pain. However, whether their impact is severe enough to induce a depressive-like state of chronic stress is unknown. As chronic stress downregulates adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) in mammals and birds, we employ this measure as a neural biomarker of subjective welfare state. Radiographs obtained longitudinally from Lohmann Brown laying hens housed in a commercial multi-tier aviary were used to score the severity of naturally-occurring KBFs between the ages of 21-62 weeks. Individual birds' transitions between aviary zones were also recorded. Focal hens with severe KBFs at 3-4 weeks prior to sampling (n = 15) had lower densities of immature doublecortin-positive (DCX+) multipolar and bipolar neurons in the hippocampal formation than focal hens with minimal fractures (n = 9). KBF severity scores at this time also negatively predicted DCX+ cell numbers on an individual level, while hens that acquired fractures earlier in their lives had fewer DCX+ neurons in the caudal hippocampal formation. Activity levels 3-4 weeks prior to sampling were not associated with AHN. KBFs thus lead to a negative affective state lasting at least 3-4 weeks, and management steps to reduce their occurrence are likely to have significant welfare benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- E A Armstrong
- Centre for Behaviour & Evolution, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
| | - C Rufener
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, USA
- Centre for Proper Housing: Poultry and Rabbits (ZTHZ), University of Bern, Zollikofen, Switzerland
| | - M J Toscano
- Centre for Proper Housing: Poultry and Rabbits (ZTHZ), University of Bern, Zollikofen, Switzerland
| | - J E Eastham
- Centre for Behaviour & Evolution, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - J H Guy
- Centre for Behaviour & Evolution, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - V Sandilands
- Department of Agriculture, Horticulture and Engineering Sciences, SRUC, Edinburgh, UK
| | - T Boswell
- Centre for Behaviour & Evolution, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - T V Smulders
- Centre for Behaviour & Evolution, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Baker SL, Robison CI, Karcher DM, Toscano MJ, Makagon MM. Keel impacts and associated behaviors in laying hens. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2019.104886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Tracy LM, Temple SM, Bennett DC, Sprayberry KA, Makagon MM, Blatchford RA. The Reliability and Accuracy of Palpation, Radiography, and Sonography for the Detection of Keel Bone Damage. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9110894. [PMID: 31683826 PMCID: PMC6912489 DOI: 10.3390/ani9110894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Due to the recent increase in reports of the prevalence of keel bone damage in laying hens, this has become a topic of welfare concern. Keel bone damage is often in the form of a fracture, and therefore may compromise the hen’s welfare. Detecting keel bone damage in live hens has been problematic, as the bone must either be palpated, which is a measure poor in accuracy, or dissected, in which case the hen must be sacrificed. However, use of imaging technology is increasing in experimental studies. We set out to determine if training with feedback on accuracy could improve palpation accuracy, as well as to determine the accuracy of portable radiography and sonography to detect keel bone damage. Even with feedback, palpation remained an inaccurate method, while both radiography and sonography showed high accuracy for detecting fractures. These two techniques show promise in detecting keel bone fractures in live birds. Abstract Palpation is the most popular method of measuring keel bone damage on live birds, although it has been criticized for being subjective and inaccurate. The goals of this study were to examine intra- and inter-rater reliability when trained with feedback of accuracy, as well as determine the accuracy of portable radiography and sonography. Four evaluators palpated 50 103-week old Lohmann LSL-lite hens immediately following euthanasia. Of those birds, 34 were then radiographed, sonographed, and all 50 were re-palpated. Lastly, the keels were dissected and scored. The presence of deviations (DEV), fractures (FR), and tip fractures (TFR) was scored for each method. Reliability of palpation was analyzed using Cronbach’s Alpha (intra) and Fleiss’ Kappa (inter) tests. Radiography and Sonography scores were further compared with dissection scores to determine sensitivity and specificity. Initial inter-observer reliability was 0.39 DEV, 0.53 FR, and 0.12 TFR, with similar scores for the second round of palpation. Scores for intra-observer reliability ranged from 0.58–0.79 DEV, 0.66–0.90 FR, and 0.37–0.87 TFR. A high prevalence of TFR, but low assessor agreement, warrants the development of specialized training for the palpation of this area. Both radiography and sonography showed relatively high sensitivity for FR and TFR, but low for DEV. On the other hand, specificity was generally high across all damage types. Even with feedback, palpation reliability was poor. However, portable radiography and sonography show promise for detecting keel fractures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linnea M Tracy
- Department of Population Health, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
| | - S Mieko Temple
- Animal Science Department, College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407, USA.
| | - Darin C Bennett
- Animal Science Department, College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407, USA.
| | - Kim A Sprayberry
- Animal Science Department, College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407, USA.
| | - Maja M Makagon
- Center for Animal Welfare, Animal Science Department, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
| | - Richard A Blatchford
- Center for Animal Welfare, Animal Science Department, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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40
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Keel bone injury in laying hens: the prevalence of injuries in relation to different housing systems, implications, and potential solutions. WORLD POULTRY SCI J 2019. [DOI: 10.1017/s0043933919000011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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41
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Relić R, Sossidou E, Xexaki A, Perić L, Božičković I, Đukić-Stojčić M. Behavioral and health problems of poultry related to rearing systems. ANKARA UNIVERSITESI VETERINER FAKULTESI DERGISI 2019. [DOI: 10.33988/auvfd.597496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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42
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Keel bone fractures are associated with individual mobility of laying hens in an aviary system. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2019.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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43
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Neijat M, Casey-Trott T, Robinson S, Widowski T, Kiarie E. Effects of rearing and adult laying housing systems on medullary, pneumatic and radius bone attributes in 73-wk old Lohmann LSL lite hens. Poult Sci 2019; 98:2840-2845. [DOI: 10.3382/ps/pez086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Saraiva S, Esteves A, Stilwell G. Influence of different housing systems on prevalence of keel bone lesions in laying hens. Avian Pathol 2019; 48:454-459. [PMID: 31106598 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2019.1620914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the effect of three housing systems (furnished cages - FC, barns - B, and free-range - FR) on the prevalence and severity of keel bone protrusion and deformations. These health and welfare indicators were measured at the slaughterhouse, using a 4-point scale (0 = absence, 1 = slight, 2 = moderate and 3 = severe). Keel bone deformation was also categorized in relation to the presence of compression over the ventral surface, deviation from a 2D straight plane and deviation from the transverse (C-shaped) or median sagittal (S-shaped) plane. The housing system had a significant effect on prevalence of keel bone deformation (χ2 = 45.465, df = 6, P < 0.001). In FR systems 60.4% of hens presented keel bone deformation, followed by 54.2% in FC and 53.5% in B; however, higher scores for keel bone deformations were more frequent in B systems. Although keel bone protrusion was observed in all laying hen systems, the majority of hens only presented a slight degree (score 1) of protrusion. A positive correlation was obtained for keel bone protrusion and emaciation. The results could be used to initiate detailed investigations into problematic issues that occur during the laying period to improve the health and welfare conditions on farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sónia Saraiva
- School of Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences, DCV, CECAV, Center of Animal Science and Veterinary, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro , Vila Real , Portugal.,Directorate-General for Food and Veterinary , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - Alexandra Esteves
- School of Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences, DCV, CECAV, Center of Animal Science and Veterinary, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro , Vila Real , Portugal
| | - George Stilwell
- Animal Behaviour and Welfare Laboratory, Center of Interdisciplinary Investigation in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon , Lisbon , Portugal
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Ali AB, Campbell DL, Karcher DM, Siegford JM. Daytime occupancy of resources and flooring types by 4 laying hen strains in a commercial-style aviary. J Vet Behav 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2019.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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46
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Campbell DLM, de Haas EN, Lee C. A review of environmental enrichment for laying hens during rearing in relation to their behavioral and physiological development. Poult Sci 2019; 98:9-28. [PMID: 30107615 PMCID: PMC6347129 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pey319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, laying hen production systems are a focus of concern for animal welfare. Recently, the impacts of rearing environments have attracted attention, particularly with the trend toward more complex production systems including aviaries, furnished cages, barn, and free-range. Enriching the rearing environments with physical, sensory, and stimulatory additions can optimize the bird's development but commercial-scale research is limited. In this review, "enrichment" is defined as anything additional added to the bird's environment including structurally complex rearing systems. The impacts of enrichments on visual development, neurobehavioral development, auditory stimulation, skeletal development, immune function, behavioral development of fear and pecking, and specifically pullets destined for free-range systems are summarized and areas for future research identified. Visual enrichment and auditory stimulation may enhance neural development but specific mechanisms of impact and suitable commercial enrichments still need elucidating. Enrichments that target left/right brain hemispheres/behavioral traits may prepare birds for specific types of adult housing environments (caged, indoor, outdoor). Similarly, structural enrichments are needed to optimize skeletal development depending on the adult layer system, but specific physiological processes resulting from different types of exercise are poorly understood. Stimulating appropriate pecking behavior from hatch is critical but producers will need to adapt to different flock preferences to provide enrichments that are utilized by each rearing group. Enrichments have potential to enhance immune function through the application of mild stressors that promote adaptability, and this same principle applies to free-range pullets destined for variable outdoor environments. Complex rearing systems may have multiple benefits, including reducing fear, that improve the transition to the layer facility. Overall, there is a need to commercially validate positive impacts of cost-effective enrichments on bird behavior and physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- D L M Campbell
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Agriculture and Food, Armidale, NSW 2350, Australia
- Adjunct to School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2350, Australia
| | - E N de Haas
- Behavioural Ecology Group and Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Science, Wageningen University and Research, 6700 AH, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - C Lee
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Agriculture and Food, Armidale, NSW 2350, Australia
- Adjunct to School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2350, Australia
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47
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Riber AB, van de Weerd HA, de Jong IC, Steenfeldt S. Review of environmental enrichment for broiler chickens. Poult Sci 2018; 97:378-396. [PMID: 29211895 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pex344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Welfare problems are commonly found in both conventional and organic production of broiler chickens. In order to reduce the extent of welfare problems, it has been suggested to provide stimulating, enriched environments. The aim of the present paper is to provide a review of the effect on behavior and welfare of the different kinds of environmental enrichments in the production of broilers that have been described in the scientific literature. Environmental enrichment is defined as an improvement of the environment of captive animals, which increases the behavioral opportunities of the animal and leads to improvements of the biological function. This definition has been broadened to include practical and economic aspects, as any enrichment strategy that adversely affects the health of animals or that has too many economic or practical constraints will never be implemented on commercial farms and thus never benefit animals. Environmental enrichment for broilers often has the purpose of satisfying behavioral needs and/or stimulating the broilers to an increased level of activity, which among others will reduce the occurrence of leg problems. Potentially successful environmental enrichments for broiler chickens are elevated resting-places, panels, barriers, and bales of straw ("point-source enrichment"), as well as covered verandas and outdoor ranges ("complex enriched environments"). Many of the ideas for environmental enrichment for broilers need to be further developed and studied, preferably in commercial trials, with respect to the use, the effect on behavior and on other welfare aspects such as leg health, and the interaction with genotype, production system, stocking density, light, and flock size. In addition, information on the practical application and the economics of the production system is often lacking, although it is important for application in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- A B Riber
- Department of Animal Science, Aarhus University, Blichers Allé 20, P.O. Box 50, DK-8830 Tjele, Denmark
| | - H A van de Weerd
- Cerebrus Associates Ltd, The White House, 2 Meadrow, Godalming, Surrey, GU7 3HN, UK
| | - I C de Jong
- Wageningen Livestock Research, PO Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - S Steenfeldt
- Department of Animal Science, Aarhus University, Blichers Allé 20, P.O. Box 50, DK-8830 Tjele, Denmark
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48
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49
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Casey-Trott TM, Korver DR, Guerin MT, Sandilands V, Torrey S, Widowski TM. Opportunities for exercise during pullet rearing, Part II: Long-term effects on bone characteristics of adult laying hens at the end-of-lay. Poult Sci 2018; 96:2518-2527. [PMID: 28431174 PMCID: PMC5850794 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pex060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoporosis in laying hens has been a production and welfare concern for several decades. The objective of this study was to determine whether differing opportunities for exercise during pullet rearing influences long-term bone quality characteristics in end-of-lay hens. A secondary objective was to assess whether differing opportunities for exercise in adult housing systems alters bone quality characteristics in end-of-lay hens. Four flock replicates of 588 Lohmann Selected Leghorn-Lite pullets were reared in either conventional cages (Conv) or an aviary rearing system (Avi) and placed into conventional cages (CC), 30-bird furnished cages (FC-S), or 60-bird furnished cages (FC-L) for adult housing. Wing and leg bones were collected at the end-of-lay to quantify bone composition and strength using quantitative computed tomography and bone breaking strength (BBS). At the end-of-lay, Avi hens had greater total and cortical cross-sectional area (P < 0.05) for the radius and tibia, greater total bone mineral content of the radius (P < 0.001), and greater tibial cortical bone mineral content (P = 0.029) than the Conv hens; however, total bone mineral density of the radius (P < 0.001) and cortical bone mineral density of the radius and tibia (P < 0.001) were greater in the Conv hens. Hens in the FC-L had greater total bone mineral density for the radius and tibia (P < 0.05) and greater trabecular bone mineral density for the radius (P = 0.027), compared to hens in the FC-S and CC. Total bone mineral content of the tibia (P = 0.030) and cortical bone mineral content of the radius (P = 0.030) and tibia (P = 0.013) were greater in the FC-L compared to the CC. The humerus of Conv hens had greater BBS than the Avi hens (P < 0.001), and the tibiae of FC-L and FC-S hens had greater BBS than CC hens (P = 0.006). Increased opportunities for exercise offered by the aviary rearing system provided improved bone quality characteristics lasting through to the end-of-lay.
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Affiliation(s)
- T M Casey-Trott
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1.,Campbell Center for the Study of Animal Welfare, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1
| | - D R Korver
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2P5
| | - M T Guerin
- Campbell Center for the Study of Animal Welfare, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1.,Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1
| | - V Sandilands
- Monogastric Science Research Center, SRUC Auchincruive, Ayr, KA6 5HW
| | - S Torrey
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1.,Campbell Center for the Study of Animal Welfare, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1
| | - T M Widowski
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1.,Campbell Center for the Study of Animal Welfare, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1
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50
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Candelotto L, Stratmann A, Gebhardt-Henrich SG, Rufener C, van de Braak T, Toscano MJ. Susceptibility to keel bone fractures in laying hens and the role of genetic variation. Poult Sci 2018; 96:3517-3528. [PMID: 28938772 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pex146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Keel bone fractures are a well-known welfare problem in modern commercial laying hen systems. The present study sought to identify genetic variation in relation to keel bone fracture susceptibility of 4 distinct crossbred and one pure line, and by extension, possible breeding traits. Susceptibility to fractures were assessed using an ex vivo impact testing protocol in combination with a study design that minimized environmental variation to focus on genetic differences. The 5 crossbred/pure lines differed in their susceptibility to keel bone fractures with the greatest likelihood of fracture in one of the 3 commercial lines and the lowest susceptibility to fractures in one of the experimental lines. Egg production at the hen-level did not differ between the crossbred/pure lines (P > 0.05), though an increased susceptibility to keel bone fractures was associated with thinner eggshells and reduced egg breaking strength, a pattern consistent among all tested crossbred/pure lines. Our findings suggest an association between egg quality and bone strength which appeared to be independent of crossbred/pure line. The findings indicate the benefit of the impact methodology to identify potential breeding characteristics to reduce incidence of keel fracture as well as the potential relationship with eggshell quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Candelotto
- Center for Proper Housing: Poultry and Rabbits (ZTHZ), Division of Animal Welfare, VPH Institute, University of Bern, Burgerweg 22, 3052 Zollikofen, Switzerland
| | - Ariane Stratmann
- Center for Proper Housing: Poultry and Rabbits (ZTHZ), Division of Animal Welfare, VPH Institute, University of Bern, Burgerweg 22, 3052 Zollikofen, Switzerland
| | - Sabine G Gebhardt-Henrich
- Center for Proper Housing: Poultry and Rabbits (ZTHZ), Division of Animal Welfare, VPH Institute, University of Bern, Burgerweg 22, 3052 Zollikofen, Switzerland
| | - Christina Rufener
- Center for Proper Housing: Poultry and Rabbits (ZTHZ), Division of Animal Welfare, VPH Institute, University of Bern, Burgerweg 22, 3052 Zollikofen, Switzerland
| | | | - Michael J Toscano
- Center for Proper Housing: Poultry and Rabbits (ZTHZ), Division of Animal Welfare, VPH Institute, University of Bern, Burgerweg 22, 3052 Zollikofen, Switzerland
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