The influence of different production systems on welfare in a new layer hybrid

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate the influence of two different production systems on the welfare of a new Turkish egg laying hybrid known as the Akbay. A total of 180 Akbay hens at the 80th wk of production either housed in conventional cages or in free range systems were used. Live body weight at the 80th wk of production, as well as the weight of immune organs and liver, was recorded. Plumage damage, foot lesions, stress, and fear were examined. The results revealed that the live body weight at the 80th wk of production was significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher in the free-range birds compared to those housed in cages. The rectal temperature was significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher in hens reared in the free-range systems than those housed in the conventional cages. The percentage of hens with mild to severe foot lesions was higher in the free-range system than in the conventional cages. Plumage damages were more common and severe among hens in cages than the free-range hens. No significant difference was recorded for tonic immobility (TI), the number of induction, and the duration of the first head movement during TI. The Fluctuating asymmetry and the weight of immune organs and liver were also not significantly different from each other. The housing of layer hens in the free range systems improved live body weight with a reduction in stress and feather damage. However, it is recommended that further studies should focus on the improvement of the foot lesion-related problems associated with this housing system.