Abstract
This study was carried out throughout a laying period to compare the behaviour and performance of two groups of commercial layers, 180 ISA Brown and 120 Hy line W98, housed at 17 weeks of age in furnished cages with a nest box, perches, dust-bath, and claw shortening device. Based on productive parameters, the model of furnished cages studied is suitable for both, Isa Brown and Hy line hens. The study suggested that strain has a significant effect on feather condition and on some behavioural displays, particularly those related to the use of a dust-bath.
Highlights
In Europe, Directive 1999/74/EC for the protection of laying hens, establishes that since 2012 all layers kept for egg production must be housed in furnished cages
It is necessary to know how different of hens cope with furnished cage systems
There were significant differences between breeds in the use of perches and dust-bath, which were more frequently used by the Isa Brown hens
Summary
In Europe, Directive 1999/74/EC for the protection of laying hens, establishes that since 2012 all layers kept for egg production must be housed in furnished cages. The aim of this study was to compare ethological parameters and productive performances of two commercial lines of laying hens housed in furnished cages. Data collection was daily performed and several times a day in order to evaluate the preference of hens to use different areas of the cage - nest, dust-bath, perches, and nipples.
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