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Shimmura T, Sato I, Takuno R, Fujinami K. Spatiotemporal understanding of behaviors of laying hens using wearable inertial sensors. Poult Sci 2024; 103:104353. [PMID: 39418795 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.104353] [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: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 09/18/2024] [Accepted: 09/18/2024] [Indexed: 10/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Automatic detection of behaviors and locations has been increasingly needed in the management of noncage systems where hen behaviors are highly diverse and active. Here we show a technology to spatiotemporally understand behaviors using a wearable inertial sensor, containing a 3-axis accelerometer and 3-axis angular velocity sensor (i.e., gyroscope), and a marker. Using supervised machine learning, we first developed a tool that automatically classified and counted 11 behaviors, including comfort behaviors such as head scratching and tail-wagging with small movements as well as dust-bathing with dynamic movements. As expected, these behaviors were observed more frequently in floor pens than in conventional cages (all P < 0.01). We also spatially mapped the behaviors in floor pens and visualized the behavioral frequency in each resource by detecting the colored markers on the sensor. Furthermore, using the time-series information included in the sensor data, we analyzed the behavioral transition from one behavior to another. The behavioral transitions were more complex in floor pens, and the number was higher in body shaking, tail-wagging, resting, litter scratching, dust-bathing, preening, and moving in floor pens than in conventional cages (all P < 0.05). Our tools presented deeper insights into where and what hens behaved and also suggested that connectivity between behaviors, as well as observing the frequency of a behavior, can be an important indicator for welfare assessment in laying hens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsuyoshi Shimmura
- Department of Biological Production, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8538, Japan.
| | - Itsufumi Sato
- Department of Biological Production, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8538, Japan
| | - Ryo Takuno
- Department of Bio-Functions and Systems Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8538, Japan
| | - Kaori Fujinami
- Institute of Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8538, Japan.
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2
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Fu Y, Cheng HW. The Influence of Cecal Microbiota Transplantation on Chicken Injurious Behavior: Perspective in Human Neuropsychiatric Research. Biomolecules 2024; 14:1017. [PMID: 39199404 PMCID: PMC11352350 DOI: 10.3390/biom14081017] [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: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have evidenced that neuropsychiatric disorders (mental illness and emotional disturbances) with aggression (or violence) pose a significant challenge to public health and contribute to a substantial economic burden worldwide. Especially, social disorganization (or social inequality) associated with childhood adversity has long-lasting effects on mental health, increasing the risk of developing neuropsychiatric disorders. Intestinal bacteria, functionally as an endocrine organ and a second brain, release various immunomodulators and bioactive compounds directly or indirectly regulating a host's physiological and behavioral homeostasis. Under various social challenges, stress-induced dysbiosis increases gut permeability causes serial reactions: releasing neurotoxic compounds, leading to neuroinflammation and neuronal injury, and eventually neuropsychiatric disorders associated with aggressive, violent, or impulsive behavior in humans and various animals via a complex bidirectional communication of the microbiota-gut-brain (MGB) axis. The dysregulation of the MGB axis has also been recognized as one of the reasons for the prevalence of social stress-induced injurious behaviors (feather pecking, aggression, and cannibalistic pecking) in chickens. However, existing knowledge of preventing and treating these disorders in both humans and chickens is not well understood. In previous studies, we developed a non-mammal model in an abnormal behavioral investigation by rationalizing the effects of gut microbiota on injurious behaviors in chickens. Based on our earlier success, the perspective article outlines the possibility of reducing stress-induced injurious behaviors in chickens through modifying gut microbiota via cecal microbiota transplantation, with the potential for providing a biotherapeutic rationale for preventing injurious behaviors among individuals with mental disorders via restoring gut microbiota diversity and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuechi Fu
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA;
| | - Heng-Wei Cheng
- Livestock Behavior Research Unit, USDA-ARS, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
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3
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Sharma MK, Kim WK. Coccidiosis in Egg-Laying Hens and Potential Nutritional Strategies to Modulate Performance, Gut Health, and Immune Response. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1015. [PMID: 38612254 PMCID: PMC11010854 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071015] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Avian coccidiosis, despite advancements in management, nutrition, genetics, and immunology, still remains the most impactful disease, imposing substantial economic losses to the poultry industry. Coccidiosis may strike any avian species, and it may be mild to severe, depending on the pathogenicity of Eimeria spp. and the number of oocysts ingested by the bird. Unlike broilers, low emphasis has been given to laying hens. Coccidiosis in laying hens damages the gastrointestinal tract and causes physiological changes, including oxidative stress, immunosuppression, and inflammatory changes, leading to reduced feed intake and a drastic drop in egg production. Several countries around the world have large numbers of hens raised in cage-free/free-range facilities, and coccidiosis has already become one of the many problems that producers have to face in the future. However, limited research has been conducted on egg-laying hens, and our understanding of the physiological changes following coccidiosis in hens relies heavily on studies conducted on broilers. The aim of this review is to summarize the effect of coccidiosis in laying hens to an extent and correlate it with the physiological changes that occur in broilers following coccidiosis. Additionally, this review tries to explore the nutritional strategies successfully used in broilers to mitigate the negative effects of coccidiosis in improving the gut health and performance of broilers and if they can be used in laying hens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Woo Kyun Kim
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA;
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4
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Tahamtani FM, Kittelsen K, Vasdal G. Fearfulness in aviary housed laying hens – effects of management and potential confounding effects of the Novel Object test. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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5
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Campbell AM, Johnson AM, Persia ME, Jacobs L. Effects of Housing System on Anxiety, Chronic Stress, Fear, and Immune Function in Bovan Brown Laying Hens. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:1803. [PMID: 35883350 PMCID: PMC9311790 DOI: 10.3390/ani12141803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The scientific community needs objective measures to appropriately assess animal welfare. The study objective was to assess the impact of housing system on novel physiological and behavioral measurements of animal welfare for laying hens, including secretory and plasma Immunoglobulin (IgA; immune function), feather corticosterone (chronic stress), and attention bias testing (ABT; anxiety), in addition to the well-validated tonic immobility test (TI; fearfulness). To test this, 184 Bovan brown hens were housed in 28 conventional cages (3 birds/cage) and 4 enriched pens (25 birds/pen). Feces, blood, and feathers were collected 4 times between week 22 and 43 to quantify secretory and plasma IgA and feather corticosterone concentrations. TI tests and ABT were performed once. Hens that were from cages tended to show longer TI, had increased feather corticosterone, and decreased secretory IgA at 22 weeks of age. The caged hens fed quicker, and more hens fed during the ABT compared to the penned hens. Hens that were in conventional cages showed somewhat poorer welfare outcomes than the hens in enriched pens, as indicated by increased chronic stress, decreased immune function at 22 weeks of age but no other ages, somewhat increased fear, but reduced anxiety. Overall, these novel markers show some appropriate contrast between housing treatments and may be useful in an animal welfare assessment context for laying hens. More research is needed to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Leonie Jacobs
- School of Animal Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (A.M.C.); (A.M.J.); (M.E.P.)
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Freeing the hens: Workshop outcomes for applying ethology to the development of cage-free housing systems in the commercial egg industry. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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7
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Garcia J, Jones D, Gast R, Robison C, Regmi P, Karcher D. Influence of forage substrates on environmental and egg microbiology in cage-free aviary housing. J APPL POULTRY RES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.japr.2021.100225] [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] Open
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Nikolov S, Kanakov D. Types and clinical presentation of damaging behaviour - feather pecking and cannibalism in birds. BULGARIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.15547/bjvm.2020-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Behavioural disorders, including feather pecking and cannibalism, are a common problem in both domestic and wild birds. The consequences of this behaviour on welfare of birds incur serious economic losses. Pecking behaviour in birds is either normal or injurious. The type of normal pecking behaviour includes non-aggressive feather pecking – allopreening and autopreening. Aggressive feather pecking aimed at maintenance and establishment of hierarchy in the flock is not associated to feathering damage. Injurious pecking causes damage of individual feathers and of feathering as a whole. Two clinical presentations of feather pecking are known in birds. The gentle feather pecking causes minimum damage; it is further divided into normal and stereotyped with bouts; it could however evolve into severe feather pecking manifested with severe pecking, pulling and removal, even consumption of feathers of the victim, which experiences pain. Severe feather pecking results in bleeding from feather follicle, deterioration of plumage and appearance of denuded areas on victim’s body. Prolonged feather pecking leads to tissue damage and consequently, cannibalism. The numerous clinical presentations of the latter include pecking of the back, abdomen, neck and wings. Vent pecking and abdominal pecking incur important losses especially during egg-laying. In young birds, pulling and pecking of toes of legs is encountered. All forms of cannibalistic pecking increase mortality rates in birds. Transition of various pecking types from one into another could be seen, while the difference between gentle, severe feather pecking and cannibalism is not always distinct.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Nikolov
- Department of Internal Non-Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
| | - D. Kanakov
- Department of Internal Non-Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
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Zhu X, Shao B, Guo Y, Gao L, Zhang H, Chen W, Wang Y, Gao G, Huang Y. Incidence rate of angel wing and its effect on wing bone development and serum biochemical parameters in geese. Poult Sci 2021; 100:101450. [PMID: 34627020 PMCID: PMC8512773 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2021.101450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The first purpose of this study was to reveal the distribution of the angel wing (AW) of geese. Our data showed that the total incidence of AW was 6.67% in 150-day-old White Zhedong (ZD) geese, the occurrence of AW in left wing is higher than that in right wing and bilateral wing than unilateral wing (both P < 0.01). In 70-day-old Hybrid-Wanxi (HW) geese, the total incidence of AW was 8.86%, with similar incidence rate between unilateral and bilateral. The sex has not apparently affected the incidence of AW in both ZD and HW geese. To explore the potential relationship between wing type with body weight, organ index, bone characteristic, or blood biochemical parameters in 70-day-old HW geese. We found that the body weight and organ index were similar between normal wing (NW) and AW geese. The length for the humerus, metacarpal and phalanx, and the phalanx weights, as well as the angle between the humerus and the radial ulna (HRU) in NW geese were pronounced greater than that in AW geese (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the angel wing was strongly associated with lower platelet size indicators. Collectively, AW affected the wing bone length, phalanx weight, and HRU, and the occurrence of AW may be related with dysfunctional platelet activation in geese.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinghao Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Binghao Shao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Yujun Guo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Linge Gao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Huaiyong Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Wen Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Yongcai Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Guangqin Gao
- College of Science, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Yanqun Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China.
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10
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Abstract
Although many factors affect the welfare of hens housed in cage and non-cage systems, welfare issues in cage systems often involve behavioural restrictions, whereas many welfare issues in non-cage systems involve health and hygiene. This review considers and compares the welfare of laying hens in cages, both conventional and furnished cages, with that of hens in non-cage systems, so as to highlight the welfare implications, both positive and negative, of cage housing. Comparisons of housing systems, particularly in commercial settings, are complex because of potentially confounding differences in physical, climatic and social environments, genetics, nutrition and management. Furthermore, some of the confounding factors are inherent to some specific housing systems. Nevertheless, research in commercial and experimental settings has indicated that hens in conventional and furnished cages have lower (or similar), but not higher, levels of stress on the basis of glucocorticoid concentrations than do hens in non-cage systems. Furthermore, caged hens, generally, have lower mortality rates than do hens in non-cage systems. However, the behavioural repertoire of laying hens housed in conventional cages is clearly more compromised than that of hens in non-cage systems. In contrast to conventional cages, furnished cages may provide opportunities for positive emotional experiences arising from perching, dust-bathing, foraging and nesting in a nest box. Some have suggested that the problems with modern animal production is not that the animals are unable to perform certain behavioural opportunities, but that they are unable to fill the extra time available with limited behaviours when they have no need to find food, water or shelter. Environmental enrichment in which objects or situations are presented that act successfully, and with a foreseeable rewarding outcome for hens by also providing regular positive emotional experience, is likely to enhance hen welfare. Research on cage systems highlights the importance of the design of the housing system rather than just the housing system per se.
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11
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Khanal T, Bédécarrats GY, Widowski T, Kiarie EG. Rearing cage type and dietary limestone particle size: I, effects on growth, apparent retention of calcium, and long bones attributes in Lohmann selected Leghorn-Lite pullets. Poult Sci 2020; 99:4454-4465. [PMID: 32867989 PMCID: PMC7597986 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Effects of rearing cage type and dietary limestone particle size (LPS) on growth, apparent retention (AR) of nutrients, and bone quality were investigated. The treatments were arranged in a 2 × 3 factorial with cage (conventional, CON and furnished, FUR) and LPS (fine, < 0.595 mm, F; medium, 0.595 to < 1.68 mm, M; and 1:1 mixture of F and M wt/wt; FM). A total of 900-day-old Lohmann LSL-Lite chicks were placed in CON (20 chicks/cage) and FUR (30 chicks/cage) based on BW. The diets were formulated according to breeder's nutrient specifications for starter, grower, and developer phases. At the end of 4, 12, and 16 wk of age (woa), 2 pullets/cage were euthanized for samples. At 12 and 16 woa, 1 pullet/cage was transferred to metabolism cages for AR measurements. There was no interaction (P > 0.05) between cage type and LPS on response variables. At 4 woa, body (P = 0.002) and bone (P < 0.05) weight was higher for CON than FUR pullets, but this was reversed (P < 0.01) at 16 woa. Pullets fed M LPS had higher (P < 0.05) AR of Ca, whole body mineral density (BoMD), and whole body mineral content (BoMC) than pullets fed F LPS. However, pullets fed F LPS had higher (P < 0.05) femur bone mineral density (BMD) and tended (P = 0.059) to have higher tibia bone breaking strength (BBS) than pullets fed M LPS at 16 woa. Pullets reared in CON cages had higher (P < 0.05) AR of Ca than FUR pullets. At 4 woa, CON pullets had lower (P < 0.05) femur and tibia BMD but higher tibia (93 vs. 83 N P = 0.012) BBS than FUR pullets. However, at 16 woa, FUR pullets had higher (P < 0.05) BoMD, BoMC, and tibia BBS than CON pullets. In conclusions, cage type and dietary LPS had independent effects on Ca utilization and skeletal development. Despite poor Ca retention, FUR caged pullets showed improved bone quality at 16 woa. Finer LPS improved femur mineral density suggesting coarser LPS had limited effects on pullet bone quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanka Khanal
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Grégoy Y Bédécarrats
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Tina Widowski
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Elijah G Kiarie
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada.
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Hofmann T, Schmucker SS, Bessei W, Grashorn M, Stefanski V. Impact of Housing Environment on the Immune System in Chickens: A Review. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E1138. [PMID: 32635616 PMCID: PMC7401558 DOI: 10.3390/ani10071138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
During their lifespan, chickens are confronted with a wide range of acute and chronic stressors in their housing environment that may threaten their welfare and health by modulating the immune system. Especially chronic stressful conditions can exceed the individual's allostatic load, with negative consequences for immunity. A fully functional immune system is mandatory for health and welfare and, consequently, also for high productivity and safe animal products. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the impact of housing form, light regime as well as aerial ammonia and hydrogen sulfide concentrations on the immune system in chickens. Certain housing conditions are clearly associated with immunological alterations which potentially impair the success of vaccinations or affect disease susceptibility. Such poor conditions counteract sustainable poultry production. This review also outlines current knowledge gaps and provides recommendations for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Hofmann
- Department of Behavioral Physiology of Livestock, Institute of Animal Science, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstr, 17, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany;
| | - Sonja S. Schmucker
- Department of Behavioral Physiology of Livestock, Institute of Animal Science, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstr, 17, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany;
| | - Werner Bessei
- Department of Livestock Population Genomics, Institute of Animal Science, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstr, 17, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany; (W.B.); (M.G.)
| | - Michael Grashorn
- Department of Livestock Population Genomics, Institute of Animal Science, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstr, 17, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany; (W.B.); (M.G.)
| | - Volker Stefanski
- Department of Behavioral Physiology of Livestock, Institute of Animal Science, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstr, 17, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany;
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Sibanda TZ, Kolakshyapati M, Welch M, Schneider D, Boshoff J, Ruhnke I. Managing Free-Range Laying Hens-Part A: Frequent and Non-Frequent Range Users Differ in Laying Performance but Not Egg Quality. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10060991. [PMID: 32517207 PMCID: PMC7341289 DOI: 10.3390/ani10060991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Free-range laying hens are allowed to roam around and exhibit their desired behaviours including usage of the outdoor range. Consequently, flock sub-populations of high-range users (“rangers”) and low-range users (“stayers”) appear. The subpopulation effect on egg production and egg quality has not been studied to date. Rangers were more consistent in their range use, while stayers increased their range use over time. Rangers came into lay earlier compared to the stayers but their egg production dropped during mid-lay until the end of lay when they were outperformed by the stayers. The flock sub-populations did not differ in their egg quality during the production period. These findings are of relevance to egg producers, as it allows them to manage their flock knowing that they can encourage them to range/stay in the shed without compromising egg quality, including off-grade eggs. In the future, it would be interesting to investigate if increased egg performance was triggered by the more frequent range usage. Abstract Little is known about the impact of ranging on laying performance and egg quality of free-range hens. The aim of this study was to characterise egg production of commercial free-range laying hen sub-populations of low-, moderate- and high-range use at an early age. A total of five flocks with 40,000 hens/flock were investigated where 1875 hens/flock were randomly selected at 16 weeks of age, monitored for their range use and subsequently grouped into “stayers” (the 20% of hens that spent the least time on the range), “roamers” (the 20% of the hens that used the range more than stayers but less than rangers) and “rangers” (the 60% of the hens that spent the most time on the range). Eggs from the individual groups were collected in 10-weekly intervals until hens were 72 weeks of age, commercially graded and tested for several quality parameters. Significant differences were noted for hen-day production. For example, at 22 weeks of age, rangers enjoyed a laying rate of 88.0% ± 1.1%, while stayers performed at 78.2% ± 1.9% but at 72 weeks of age egg production of rangers was 85.1% ± 0.9% and of stayers was 95.5% ± 0.9% (p < 0.05). Range use was of minor importance to the egg quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terence Zimazile Sibanda
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, Faculty of Science, Agriculture, Business and Law, University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351, Australia; (M.K.); (I.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-2-6773-5155
| | - Manisha Kolakshyapati
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, Faculty of Science, Agriculture, Business and Law, University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351, Australia; (M.K.); (I.R.)
| | - Mitchell Welch
- Precision Agriculture Research Group, Faculty of Science, Agriculture, Business and Law, School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351, Australia; (M.W.); (D.S.)
| | - Derek Schneider
- Precision Agriculture Research Group, Faculty of Science, Agriculture, Business and Law, School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351, Australia; (M.W.); (D.S.)
| | - Johan Boshoff
- Computation, Analytics, Software and Informatics, University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351, Australia;
| | - Isabelle Ruhnke
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, Faculty of Science, Agriculture, Business and Law, University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351, Australia; (M.K.); (I.R.)
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Mechanisms of aggression and production in chickens: genetic variations in the functions of serotonin, catecholamine, and corticosterone. WORLD POULTRY SCI J 2019. [DOI: 10.1017/s0043933907001432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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17
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18
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19
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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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Shini A, Shini S, Bryden WL. Fatty liver haemorrhagic syndrome occurrence in laying hens: impact of production system. Avian Pathol 2018; 48:25-34. [PMID: 30345810 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2018.1538550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Surveys were conducted with cage and alternative layer production systems to assess the prevalence of fatty liver haemorrhagic syndrome (FLHS). Commercial caged laying hens of different ages from three farms in Queensland were monitored for three months. The mortality rate of flocks ranged from 0.8% (the youngest flock) to 11.6% (the oldest flock). Six hundred and fifty-one birds were necropsied, and approximately 40% of hens died due to FLHS. Hens kept in cages in a controlled environment shed, were at a similar risk of developing FLHS to hens kept in naturally controlled sheds, however, the heavier birds in a flock were more likely to have the condition than lighter birds. In another study, layer flocks kept in cage, barn and free-range housing systems at the University of Queensland facility, were monitored for 50 weeks. Data from necropsies and performance records showed no significant differences in mortality rates between the housing systems (6.1%, 6.4% and 5.8%, for cages, barns and free-range, respectively), but the cause of mortality was different. In cages, 74% of necropsied hens died due to FLHS. In the other systems, only 0-5% of dead hens were diagnosed with the condition. These results are in agreement with previous Australian and overseas findings which have shown that FLHS is one of the main causes of hen death in caged flocks. Factors associated with husbandry practices in different production systems, such as restricted movement, increased production and temperature variations, influence hepatic lipid metabolism and predispose hens to FLHS.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Shini
- a School of Agriculture and Food Sciences , University of Queensland , Gatton , QLD , Australia.,b Queensland Agricultural Training Colleges (QATC) , Toowoomba , QLD , Australia
| | - S Shini
- a School of Agriculture and Food Sciences , University of Queensland , Gatton , QLD , Australia
| | - W L Bryden
- a School of Agriculture and Food Sciences , University of Queensland , Gatton , QLD , Australia
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van Staaveren N, Decina C, Baes CF, Widowski TM, Berke O, Harlander-Matauschek A. A Description of Laying Hen Husbandry and Management Practices in Canada. Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:ani8070114. [PMID: 29997334 PMCID: PMC6071255 DOI: 10.3390/ani8070114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Furnished cage and non-cage (single-tier or multi-tier) housing systems are increasingly used worldwide in efforts to improve laying hen welfare. Canadian laying hen farms are undergoing a similar transition, however, little is known about the housing and management of laying hens in these housing systems in Canada. Data collected through farmer questionnaires from 65 laying hen flocks across Canada revealed commonly used management practices in furnished cage (26), single-tier (17) and multi-tier systems (22). Non-cage systems should allow hens to perform natural behavior (e.g., foraging/dustbathing). However, a proportion of non-cage systems either did not provide litter or considered manure as a litter substrate, which could have implications for consumer perspectives on these systems. Daily flock inspections and vaccination schemes were the main practices used to maintain flock health, whereas veterinarian involvement on-farm and in the development and implementation of a flock health plan was less common. Further research is needed to make clear recommendations and to investigate how to facilitate management changes by farmers currently transitioning to furnished cage and non-cage housing systems. Abstract Canadian laying hen farms are transitioning from conventional cage housing to furnished cage and non-cage housing systems to improve laying hen welfare. However, little is known about the current housing and management systems in Canada. This study addresses this knowledge gap by describing different housing and management practices used on farms where laying hens were housed in furnished cages or non-cage housing systems. A questionnaire covering farm and housing conditions, litter management, nutrition and feeding, environmental control, flock characteristics, rearing and placement, health, egg production and performance were distributed through provincial egg boards to 122 producers across Canada. Data were collected from 65 laying hen flocks (52.5% response rate) in 26 furnished cage, 17 single-tier and 22 multi-tier systems. Flocks were on average 45.1 ± 14.59 weeks old (range: 19–69 weeks). Frequencies of different management practices were calculated according to housing system. Most flocks were reared in the same housing system as they were housed in during lay, with the exception of furnished cage layers which were reared in conventional cage systems. Results indicated that a large proportion of non-cage systems were either fully slatted or had manure as a litter substrate, which could have implications for consumer perspectives on these systems. Further research is needed to develop clear recommendations on proper litter management for farmers. In general, flock health was managed through daily inspections and vaccination schemes, whereas veterinarian involvement on-farm was less common. Vaccination, hygiene, and effective biosecurity should be maintained to ensure good health in laying hens in furnished cage and non-cage systems during the transition to these systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nienke van Staaveren
- Department of Animal Biosciences, Ontario Agricultural College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Caitlin Decina
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Christine F Baes
- Department of Animal Biosciences, Ontario Agricultural College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Tina M Widowski
- Department of Animal Biosciences, Ontario Agricultural College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Olaf Berke
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
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Abstract
Worldwide, farm animals are kept on litter or foraging substrate that becomes increasingly soiled throughout the production cycle. For animals like laying hens, this means that it is likely they would scratch, forage and consume portions of excreta found in the litter or foraging substrate. However, no study has investigated the relative preference of laying hens for foraging and consumption of feed mixed with different percentages of excreta. A total of 48 White Leghorn laying hens of two strains, a commercial strain (Lohmann LSL-Lite (LSL), n=24) and UCD-003 strain (susceptible to liver damage, n=24), were individually housed and given access to feed mixed with increasing percentages of hen excreta (0%, 33%, 66% and 100% excreta diets) and corn as a luxury food reward (four corn kernels per diet daily). The amount of substrate and number of corn kernels consumed from each diet was recorded for a period of 3 weeks. Both LSL and UCD-003 hens preferred to consume and forage in diets with 0% excreta, followed by 33% and finally diets containing 66% and 100% excreta. Despite the presence of excreta-free diets, birds consumed on average 61.3 g per day of the diets containing excreta. Neither physical health, measured by plasma enzyme activity levels, nor cognitive differences, assessed by recalling a visual discrimination task, was associated with relative feeding or foraging preference. In conclusion, this study demonstrated a clear preference for feeding and foraging on substrate without excreta in laying hens. However, considering the amount of excreta diets consumed, further studies are needed to understand the causes and consequences of excreta consumption on physiological and psychological functioning, and how this information can be used to allow adjustments in the management of foraging substrates in farmed birds.
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24
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Brantsæter M, Nordgreen J, Hansen TB, Muri K, Nødtvedt A, Moe RO, Janczak AM. Problem behaviors in adult laying hens – identifying risk factors during rearing and egg production. Poult Sci 2018; 97:2-16. [DOI: 10.3382/ps/pex276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Matur E, Eraslan E, Akyazi I, Ergul Ekiz E, Eseceli H, Keten M, Metiner K, Aktaran Bala D. The effect of furnished cages on the immune response of laying hens under social stress. Poult Sci 2015; 94:2853-62. [DOI: 10.3382/ps/pev297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 08/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Heerkens JLT, Delezie E, Rodenburg TB, Kempen I, Zoons J, Ampe B, Tuyttens FAM. Risk factors associated with keel bone and foot pad disorders in laying hens housed in aviary systems. Poult Sci 2015; 95:482-8. [PMID: 26628344 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pev339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Aviary systems for laying hens offer space and opportunities to perform natural behaviors. However, hen welfare can be impaired due to increased risk for keel bone and foot pad disorders in those systems. This cross-sectional study (N = 47 flocks) aimed to assess prevalences of keel bone and foot pad disorders in laying hens housed in aviaries in Belgium to identify risk factors for these disorders and their relation to egg production. Information on housing characteristics and egg production were obtained through questionnaire-based interviews, farm records, and measurements in the henhouse. Keel bone (wounds, hematomas, fractures, deviations) and foot pad disorders (dermatitis, hyperkeratosis) were assessed in 50 randomly selected 60-week-old laying hens per flock. A linear model with stepwise selection procedure was used to investigate associations between risk factors, production parameters, and the keel bone and foot pad disorders. The flock mean prevalences were: hematomas 41.2%, wounds 17.6%, fractures 82.5%, deviations 58.9%, hyperkeratosis 42.0%, dermatitis 27.6%, and bumble foot 1.2%. Identified risk factors for keel bone disorders were aviary type (row vs. portal), tier flooring material (wire mesh vs. plastic slats), corridor width, nest box perch, and hybrid. Identified risk factors for foot pad disorders were aviary type (row vs. portal), free-range, and hybrid. Percentage of second-quality eggs was negatively associated with keel bone deviations (P = 0.029) at the flock level. Keel bone and foot pad disorders were alarmingly high in aviary housing. The identification of various risk factors suggests improvements to aviary systems may lead to better welfare of laying hens.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L T Heerkens
- Animal Sciences Unit, Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Scheldeweg 68, B-9090 Melle, Belgium
| | - E Delezie
- Animal Sciences Unit, Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Scheldeweg 68, B-9090 Melle, Belgium
| | - T B Rodenburg
- Behavioural Ecology Group, Wageningen University, P.O. Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - I Kempen
- Experimental Poultry Centre, Poiel 77, B-2440 Geel, Belgium
| | - J Zoons
- Experimental Poultry Centre, Poiel 77, B-2440 Geel, Belgium
| | - B Ampe
- Animal Sciences Unit, Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Scheldeweg 68, B-9090 Melle, Belgium
| | - F A M Tuyttens
- Animal Sciences Unit, Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Scheldeweg 68, B-9090 Melle, Belgium Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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Angelovičová M, Ševčíková L, Angelovič M. The table eggs and their quality in small-scale breeding. POTRAVINARSTVO 2015. [DOI: 10.5219/515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose this study was to investigate quality of the table eggs, their damage and soiling in various age of the laying hens (47-62 weeks) during the second phase of the laying cycle. The object of the research was table eggs, egg white, egg shell, damage and soiling of the egg shell. The eggs were of the final laying hybrid ISA Brown reared in the non-cage system with deep litter and free range at small-scale breeding. In the breeding system with free range at small-scale conditions were secured requirements for laying hens in accordance with welfare principles. The eggs were collected each day at 4:00 pm. Weights of egg and egg shell samples of were measured on scales type KERN 440-35N. A white weight was calculated. Damage and soiling of eggs were investigated under the desk lamp lighting up to 100 W bulb. Statistical evaluation of the results was carried out in the program system SAS. From the existing conclusions of the various scientific and professional published works, it is known that both quality and safety are interrelated. In many works are the risk factors referred together as the quality standards. We found an important fact in assessing the trend of values of the egg shell weight, depending on the age of laying hens. Based on this fact, it can be assumed that the values of egg shell weight were not directly related to egg weight and egg white weight. It follows that the egg shell weight must be assessed comprehensively, and account must be taken of other factors. For the characteristics of the deformed egg shape has been one pc, representing 3.33% of the samples taken for analysis of eggs at 53 weeks of age of the total sampled eggs. In the following 56 weeks of age hens laying eggs there was not a deformed shape. The next subsequent sampling 59 weeks of age laying hens were recorded two pcs of eggs with deformed shape, i.e. 6.67%. At the last sampling of eggs at age 62 weeks, the number of eggs with deformed shape increased to three pcs, representing 10.0% of the sampled eggs for analysis. The sediments on the shell eggs were observed as variable ridge shapes of the shell matter. At the first sampling of eggs at age 47 weeks were found 2 pcs of this defect, representing 6.67% of the sampled eggs. The ridges on the egg shell belong to deviations of the natural shell associated with its texture. These defects of egg shell frequently occur depending on the age of laying hens but can also be caused by other factors. In our experiment was studied mainly the age factor of laying hens. It was interested from aspect of clarifying the relation between ridges on the egg shell and weight of the egg, white, egg, respectively. The results of investigated ridges on the egg shell showed that there occurred in every age of laying hens. Their highest number was recorded at age 59 and 62 weeks (5 pcs, i.e. 16.67% of the 30 egg samples). After 59 weeks of age was found also reduce the weight of the white and shell and at age 62 weeks of age was reduced egg shell weight. Egg production with calcareous sediments on the shell is probably hereditary. Currently, the consumer prefers the consumption of eggs with brown shell. Egg shell color is determined primarily by genetics of laying hens. The results of our experiments have shown that the occurrence of the dots on egg shell had a shade darker brown colour or bright dots, especially on the ends of the egg. The occurrence of dotted eggs was recorded in each assessed age of laying hens (5 - 7 pcs, i.e. 16.67 to 23.33%), while in the last, evaluated 62 weeks of age even up to 9 pcs. These dots and their occurrence are related to the intensity of pigment deposition in the shell cuticle. The process of distribution of pigment in egg shell is the same as is formed by packing egg shell and therefore the cuticle. With the increasing age of laying hens reduces the intensity of pigment deposition in the egg shell and increases of egg surface area, of the egg shell area, to which the pigment is stored. This fact is confirmed by our results especially at week 62 of age, when occurrence of pigment dots was the highest on the shell and also these eggs had the highest average weight.
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Stadig LM, Ampe BA, Van Gansbeke S, Van den Bogaert T, D'Haenens E, Heerkens JLT, Tuyttens FAM. Survey of egg farmers regarding the ban on conventional cages in the EU and their opinion of alternative layer housing systems in Flanders, Belgium. Poult Sci 2015; 95:715-25. [PMID: 26574025 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pev334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
On 1 January 2012, conventional cages for laying hens were banned in the European Union (EU); all egg farmers must now use alternative hen housing systems. In total, 218 Flemish egg farmers were surveyed in 2013 to 2014 regarding which housing systems they currently use, their degree of satisfaction with the system, and how they experienced the transition from conventional cages to an alternative system. The response rate was 58.3% (127 respondents). Of these, 43 (33.9%) were no longer active as an egg farmer, mainly due to the ban on conventional cages. The respondents who were active as egg farmers both before and after the transition (84, 66.1%) mainly judged the ban as negative for their own finances and for the competitive position of the Belgian egg industry, but were neutral or positive regarding the general consequences for their own business. Most respondents' hens were housed in either aviary systems (47.7%) or in alternative cage systems (38.2%). When choosing a new system, the fit into the farm and consumer demand were the most important factors. Consumer demand was the main reason for choosing a system with free-range access. In general, egg farmers were satisfied with the system they chose, although this differs between systems. When asked to compare the alternative systems to conventional cages, alternatives were judged to be better for hen welfare and consumer demand, but similar or worse for all other aspects, especially labor. Egg farmers previously using conventional cages judged alternative systems more negatively than those who had no prior experience with conventional cages. Farmers who had experience with free-range systems judged these more positively than those without this experience, e.g., for egg consumer demand, profitability, and hen welfare. These results can possibly be extrapolated to other EU countries in which conventional cages were the most common housing system until 2012, and lessons can be drawn from the farmers' experiences when implementing other animal welfare legislation that may require similar far-reaching adaptations for primary production.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Stadig
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Animal Sciences Unit, Scheldeweg 68, 9090 Melle, Belgium Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - B A Ampe
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Animal Sciences Unit, Scheldeweg 68, 9090 Melle, Belgium
| | - S Van Gansbeke
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Koningin Maria Hendrikaplein 70 bus 101, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - T Van den Bogaert
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Koningin Maria Hendrikaplein 70 bus 101, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - E D'Haenens
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Animal Sciences Unit, Scheldeweg 68, 9090 Melle, Belgium
| | - J L T Heerkens
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Animal Sciences Unit, Scheldeweg 68, 9090 Melle, Belgium
| | - F A M Tuyttens
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Animal Sciences Unit, Scheldeweg 68, 9090 Melle, Belgium Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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Li X, Chen D, Li J, Bao J. Effects of Furnished Cage Type on Behavior and Welfare of Laying Hens. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2015; 29:887-94. [PMID: 26954171 PMCID: PMC4852257 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.15.0576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Revised: 08/29/2015] [Accepted: 09/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to compare the effects of layout of furniture (a perch, nest, and sandbox) in cages on behavior and welfare of hens. Two hundred and sixteen Hyline Brown laying hens were divided into five groups (treatments) with four replicates per group: small furnished cages (SFC), medium furnished cages type I (MFC-I), medium furnished cages type II (MFC-II), and medium furnished cages type III (MFC-III) and conventional cages (CC). The experiment started at 18 week of age and finished at 52 week of age. Hens’ behaviors were filmed during the following periods: 8:00 to 10:00; 13:00 to 14:00; 16:00 to 17:00 on three separate days and two hens from each cage were measured for welfare parameters at 50 wk of age. The results showed that feeding and laying of all hens showed no effect by cage type (p>0.05), and the hens in the furnished cages had significantly lower standing and higher walking than CC hens (p<0.05). The birds in MFC-III had significant higher preening, scratching and feather-pecking behavior than in the other cages (p<0.05). No difference in nesting behavior was found in the hens between the furnished cages (p>0.05). The hens in MFC-I, −II, and −III showed a significant higher socializing behavior than SFC and CC (p<0.05). The lowest perching was for the hens in SFC and the highest perching found for the hens in MFC-III. Overall, the hens in CC showed poorer welfare conditions than the furnished cages, in which the feather condition score, gait score and tonic immobility duration of the hens in CC was significantly higher than SFC, MFC-I, MFC-II, and MFC-III (p<0.05). In conclusion, the furnished cage design affected both behavior and welfare states of hens. Overall, MFC-III cage design was better than SFC, MFC-I, and MFC-II cage designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Donghua Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Jianhong Li
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Jun Bao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
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Heerkens JL, Delezie E, Kempen I, Zoons J, Ampe B, Rodenburg TB, Tuyttens FA. Specific characteristics of the aviary housing system affect plumage condition, mortality and production in laying hens. Poult Sci 2015; 94:2008-17. [DOI: 10.3382/ps/pev187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Welfare of organic laying hens kept at different indoor stocking densities in a multi-tier aviary system. II: live weight, health measures and perching. Animal 2015; 9:1518-28. [PMID: 25990629 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731115000725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Multi-tier aviary systems, where conveyor belts below the tiers remove the manure at regular intervals, are becoming more common in organic egg production. The area on the tiers can be included in the net area available to the hens (also referred to as usable area) when calculating maximum indoor stocking densities in organic systems within the EU. In this article, results on live weight, health measures and perching are reported for organic laying hens housed in a multi-tier system with permanent access to a veranda and kept at stocking densities (D) of 6, 9 and 12 hens/m2 available floor area, with concomitant increases in the number of hens per trough, drinker, perch and nest space. In a fourth treatment, access to the top tier was blocked reducing vertical, trough, and perch access at the lowest stocking density (D6x). In all other aspects than stocking density, the experiment followed the EU regulations on the keeping of organic laying hens. Hen live weight, mortality and foot health were not affected by the stocking densities used in the present study. Other variables (plumage condition, presence of breast redness and blisters, pecked tail feathers, and perch use) were indirectly affected by the increase in stocking density through the simultaneous reduction in access to other resources, mainly perches and troughs. The welfare of the hens was mostly affected by these associated constraints, despite all of them being within the allowed minimum requirements for organic production in the EU. Although the welfare consequences reported here were assessed to be moderate to minor, it is important to take into account concurrent constraints on access to other resources when higher stocking densities are used in organic production.
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Yan F, Hester P, Enneking S, Cheng H. Effects of perch access and age on physiological measures of stress in caged White Leghorn pullets. Poult Sci 2013; 92:2853-9. [DOI: 10.3382/ps.2013-03271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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33
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Kops MS, de Haas EN, Rodenburg TB, Ellen ED, Korte-Bouws GA, Olivier B, Güntürkün O, Korte SM, Bolhuis JE. Selection for low mortality in laying hens affects catecholamine levels in the arcopallium, a brain area involved in fear and motor regulation. Behav Brain Res 2013; 257:54-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2013.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2013] [Revised: 09/13/2013] [Accepted: 09/17/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Kang SY, Ko YH, Moon YS, Sohn SH, Jang IS. Effects of Housing Systems on Physiological and Immunological Parameters in Laying Hens. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2013. [DOI: 10.5187/jast.2013.55.2.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Asghar Saki A, Zamani P, Rahmati M, Mahmoudi H. The effect of cage density on laying hen performance, egg quality, and excreta minerals. J APPL POULTRY RES 2012. [DOI: 10.3382/japr.2010-00318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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36
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Sohn SH, Jang IS, Son BR. Effect of Housing Systems of Cage and Floor on the Production Performance and Stress Response in Layer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011. [DOI: 10.5536/kjps.2011.38.4.305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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37
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De Vylder J, Dewulf J, Van Hoorebeke S, Pasmans F, Haesebrouck F, Ducatelle R, Van Immerseel F. Horizontal transmission of Salmonella enteritidis in groups of experimentally infected laying hens housed in different housing systems. Poult Sci 2011; 90:1391-6. [PMID: 21673153 DOI: 10.3382/ps.2010-00944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Concerns regarding the welfare of laying hens have led to the ban of conventional battery cages in Europe from 2012 onward and to the development of alternative housing systems that allow hens to perform a broader range of natural behaviors. Limited information is available about the consequences of alternative housing systems on transmission of zoonotic pathogens such as Salmonella Enteritidis. However, Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis continues to be one of the leading causes of bacterial foodborne disease worldwide and this is mainly attributed to the consumption of contaminated eggs. A transmission experiment was performed to quantify the effect of the housing system on the spread of a Salmonella Enteritidis infection within a group of layers and on internal egg contamination. At the age of 16 wk, 126 birds housed on the floor were inoculated with Salmonella Enteritidis. Three weeks later, the inoculated hens were housed together with equal numbers of susceptible contact animals in 4 different housing systems: a conventional cage system, a furnished cage, an aviary, and a floor system. Transmission and egg contamination were followed during a 4-wk period. A trend toward increased bird-to-bird transmission was detected in the aviary and floor system compared with the cage systems. Also, significantly more contaminated eggs were found in the aviary compared with the cage systems and the floor system. These results suggest that there is a clear need to optimize and maintain Salmonella surveillance programs when laying hens will be moved from conventional cage systems to alternative housing systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- J De Vylder
- Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Avian Diseases, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium.
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38
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Tuyttens F, Sonck B, Staes M, Van Gansbeke S, Van den Bogaert T, Ampe B. Survey of egg producers on the introduction of alternative housing systems for laying hens in Flanders, Belgium. Poult Sci 2011; 90:941-50. [DOI: 10.3382/ps.2010-01122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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39
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Lay DC, Fulton RM, Hester PY, Karcher DM, Kjaer JB, Mench JA, Mullens BA, Newberry RC, Nicol CJ, O'Sullivan NP, Porter RE. Hen welfare in different housing systems. Poult Sci 2011; 90:278-94. [PMID: 21177469 DOI: 10.3382/ps.2010-00962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 274] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Egg production systems have become subject to heightened levels of scrutiny. Multiple factors such as disease, skeletal and foot health, pest and parasite load, behavior, stress, affective states, nutrition, and genetics influence the level of welfare hens experience. Although the need to evaluate the influence of these factors on welfare is recognized, research is still in the early stages. We compared conventional cages, furnished cages, noncage systems, and outdoor systems. Specific attributes of each system are shown to affect welfare, and systems that have similar attributes are affected similarly. For instance, environments in which hens are exposed to litter and soil, such as noncage and outdoor systems, provide a greater opportunity for disease and parasites. The more complex the environment, the more difficult it is to clean, and the larger the group size, the more easily disease and parasites are able to spread. Environments such as conventional cages, which limit movement, can lead to osteoporosis, but environments that have increased complexity, such as noncage systems, expose hens to an increased incidence of bone fractures. More space allows for hens to perform a greater repertoire of behaviors, although some deleterious behaviors such as cannibalism and piling, which results in smothering, can occur in large groups. Less is understood about the stress that each system imposes on the hen, but it appears that each system has its unique challenges. Selective breeding for desired traits such as improved bone strength and decreased feather pecking and cannibalism may help to improve welfare. It appears that no single housing system is ideal from a hen welfare perspective. Although environmental complexity increases behavioral opportunities, it also introduces difficulties in terms of disease and pest control. In addition, environmental complexity can create opportunities for the hens to express behaviors that may be detrimental to their welfare. As a result, any attempt to evaluate the sustainability of a switch to an alternative housing system requires careful consideration of the merits and shortcomings of each housing system.
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Affiliation(s)
- D C Lay
- Livestock Behavior Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service-USDA, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
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Van Hoorebeke S, Van Immerseel F, Haesebrouck F, Ducatelle R, Dewulf J. The Influence of the Housing System on Salmonella Infections in Laying Hens: A Review. Zoonoses Public Health 2010; 58:304-11. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1863-2378.2010.01372.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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41
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De Vylder J, Van Hoorebeke S, Ducatelle R, Pasmans F, Haesebrouck F, Dewulf J, Van Immerseel F. Effect of the housing system on shedding and colonization of gut and internal organs of laying hens with Salmonella Enteritidis. Poult Sci 2010; 88:2491-5. [PMID: 19903945 DOI: 10.3382/ps.2009-00203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
As a result of welfare considerations, conventional cage systems will be banned in the European Union from 2012 onward. Currently, there is limited information on the level of contamination with zoonotic pathogens related to the laying hen housing system. Therefore, 2 studies were designed to investigate the effect of the housing system on colonization of layers with Salmonella. In both studies, layers were housed in 3 different housing systems: a conventional cage system, a furnished cage, and an aviary. At 18 wk of age, all birds were orally inoculated with Salmonella Enteritidis. Shedding and colonization were measured at regular time points. The results did not show an increased risk for alternative housing systems compared with the conventional battery cage system. In contrast, in one study, a faster decline in shedding was noted for layers housed in the alternative cage systems in comparison with the conventional cage system. This study does not give indications that housing layers in alternative systems will yield a risk for increased Salmonella contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- J De Vylder
- Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Avian Diseases, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
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42
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Effects of housing conditions during the rearing and laying period on adrenal reactivity, immune response and heterophil to lymphocyte (H/L) ratios in laying hens. Animal 2010; 4:1709-15. [DOI: 10.1017/s175173111000100x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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43
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De Reu K, Rodenburg T, Grijspeerdt K, Messens W, Heyndrickx M, Tuyttens F, Sonck B, Zoons J, Herman L. Bacteriological contamination, dirt, and cracks of eggshells in furnished cages and noncage systems for laying hens: An international on-farm comparison. Poult Sci 2009; 88:2442-8. [DOI: 10.3382/ps.2009-00097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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44
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Pohle K, Cheng HW. Comparative effects of furnished and battery cages on egg production and physiological parameters in White Leghorn hens. Poult Sci 2009; 88:2042-51. [DOI: 10.3382/ps.2009-00171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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45
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Welfare assessment of laying hens in furnished cages and non-cage systems: an on-farm comparison. Anim Welf 2008. [DOI: 10.1017/s096272860002786x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
AbstractFrom 2012 onwards, all laying hens in Europe will need to be housed either in furnished cages or non-cage systems (aviaries or floor-housing systems). In terms of animal welfare, furnished cages and non-cage systems both have advantages and disadvantages. Data on direct comparisons between the two, however, are limited. The aim of this study was to carry out an on-farm comparison of laying hens’ welfare in furnished cages and non-cage systems. To meet this aim, six flocks of laying hens in furnished cages and seven flocks in non-cage systems (all without an outdoor run) were visited when hens were around 60 weeks of age and a number of measures were collected: behavioural observations, fearfulness, plumage and body condition, incidence of bone breaks, bone strength, TGI-score (or Animal Needs Index), dust levels and mortality. In non-cage systems, birds were found to be more active and made greater use of resources (scratching area, perches) than in furnished cages. These birds also had stronger bones and were less fearful than birds in furnished cages. On the other hand, birds in furnished cages had lower mortality rates, lower incidence of bone fractures and lower airborne dust concentrations. When all the welfare indicators were integrated into an overall welfare score, there were no significant differences between systems. These results indicate that furnished cages and non-cage systems have both strong and weak points in terms of their impact on animal welfare.
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