Research/Alternatives to beak trimming

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Trialling shade as an alternative to beak trimming
Trialling shade as an alternative to beak trimming
Title: Alternatives to beak trimming

Project Leader: Phil Glatz at SARDI and Geoff Hinch at UNE funded by Poultry CRC (Project 07-17)

Duration of Project: 1 July 2007 to 31 December 2009

Contents

Project overview

The welfare of beak trimmed birds and the potential negative long-term effects of the procedure are becoming increasingly recognised by consumers. In modern pullet and layer houses it is possible to minimise the light intensity within the house and reduce the risk of outbreaks of injurious feather pecking. However in barn and free-range systems the problem of feather pecking and cannibalism will persist and alternatives to beak trimming require investigation. This project is examining the design of facilities and products that may deter pecking under Australian conditions.
Another example of using shade with a free range flock
Another example of using shade with a free range flock

Project objectives

The objective of this project is to reduce the need for beak trimming and re trimming by:

  • Developing design principles of free-range systems that minimise cannibalism;
  • Developing products that deter the onset of cannibalism and feather pecking in Australian production systems;
  • Evaluate if light control during rearing and laying periods in modern poultry houses reduces the need for beak trimming.

Project progress

Work at SARDI on provision of shade showed that there were more birds in the range in the morning when shade was provided but this trend was reversed in the afternoon. There was no effect on production and feather score of birds whether birds were provided shade or no shade in the range. Also, the role of shade cover, shelterbelts and forage is being investigated on free range farms in the Darling Downs area (west of Toowoomba). At UNE, caged birds and testing systems are in place and aversive agents identified for testing. Finally, an on-farm light trial has been organised on a 300,000 bird laying facility near Young in NSW. A batch of 1000 birds will not be beak trimmed. The industry is keen to determine if there is a need to beak trim birds housed in low light conditions both during the rearing and laying period.
Using pasture as forage sources to reduce cannibalism & feather pecking
Using pasture as forage sources to reduce cannibalism & feather pecking

See also

External links

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