Validation of a behavior observation form for geese reared in agroforestry systems

Abstract

Agroforestry systems, which are based on the integration of trees and animals, represent a useful practice for implementing the “One Welfare” concept. Geese could adapt well to these systems due to their kinetic and grazing abilities. However, the lack of specific ethograms and animal-based measures have not yet allowed a deep assessment of their welfare and behavior. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a protocol to evaluate the behavior of geese reared in two agroforestry systems (i.e., apple orchard and vineyard). Thus, a behavior observation form (BOF) including a specific ethogram was proposed, and its interobserver reliability, content, criterion and construct validity were determined. Moreover, the influence of the time of day and type of agroforestry system on geese's behavior was also investigated. Agreement and principal component analyses, as well as the comparison between data collected through direct observation by the BOF and indirect observation by a computerized system, supported the reliability and validity of the proposed protocol. While the BOF also highlighted differences in the behavior expressed by the geese according to the time of day and the environmental context, both the vineyard and apple orchard systems seem to meet their biological and behavioral needs.

Welfare of ducks, geese and quail on farm

“…The time spent in foraging is doubled, illustrating the importance of space and substrate to fulfil foraging motivation. Mancinelli et al (2022) described a foraging behaviour in geese which corresponds to grazing. Boz et al (2021) described geese pecking or scratching on the ground.…”

“…Additional nest material (straw) is provided every second day to keep eggs clean and prevent egg breaking (Bogenfürst, 2017 ). The birds can have access to certain vegetation (such as orchard or vineyard; see Mancinelli et al., 2022 ), hiding places, watering holes, as a form of enrichment.…”

“…lake or deep channel) in the growing period, then from 3 weeks of age the goslings should have access to shallow open water (only a few hours/day at this stage) to learn how to oil their feathers (Bogenfürst, 2017 ). The birds can have access to certain vegetation (such as orchard or vineyard; see Mancinelli et al., 2022 ) or hiding places, as a form of enrichment. In the last 3–4 weeks of the growing period, there may be an intensive fattening period (not overfeeding), when the birds are closed back indoors (see growing period details in Section 3.4.3.2.1 ), into smaller floor pens (30–40 geese/pen, 4–5 geese/m 2 , about 7–8 m 2 /pen; Bogenfürst, 2017 ).…”

“…If there is not enough grass on the pasture, then it must be provided for the birds in hay racks, as well as the concentrated feed in large capacity feeders (Bogenfürst, 2017 ). The birds can have access to certain vegetation (such as orchard or vineyard; see Mancinelli et al., 2022 ) or hiding places as well.…”

“…Mancinelli et al. ( 2022 ) described a foraging behaviour in geese which corresponds to grazing. Boz et al.…”