How effective are the seasons and different applications in semi-intensive broiler rearing in terms of welfare?

Abstract

In this study, it was aimed that to evaluate the effects of season, genotype, and various semi-intensive production systems on broiler welfare. Fast-growing and slow-growing broilers were used, different semi-intensive production systems (extensive indoor, free-range, and traditional free-range) were applied according to EU standards, and trials were carried out in spring and summer in Antalya beside the Mediterranean Sea. Some welfare parameters were collected on day before slaughter (81 d for the traditional free-range, 55 d for the other systems). Recorded data were deal with fear and stress parameters, leg health, bruises on the breast and thighs, breast feather dirtiness, and certain blood parameters. Additionally, outdoor use was identified. The proportion of chickens on the outside was higher in spring than in summer, and slow- used more of the outdoor area than fast-. As a conclusion, the high ambient temperature decreased prominently the welfare of the birds, the welfare of the slow-growing chickens was clearly higher than fast- ones and the welfare-improving effect of grazing was limited.