Abstract
Abstract In two experiments with caged layers lasting from 22 to 82 weeks of age, three designs of prototypes for choice feeding (CF) and semi-choice feeding (SCF) using flat chain feeders in battery rows of 15 m length, were compared with conventional all mash (CAM) flat chain ad lib. feeding. Expt. I totally involved 3 888 Shaver Starcross 288 birds distributed over six battery rows (feeders) and Expt. II 3 264 LSL birds (Lohmann Selected Leghorns) in five rows. CAM was fed in three batteries with a diet containing 11.4 MJ ME/kg, 14.4% crude protein (CP) and 0.73% lysine. In the CF battery hens were fed by two narrow flat chains in a double trough, the outer chain distributing a mash concentrate and the inner chain distributing a mixture of unground grain. In the SCF-A feeder the concentrate was given as a layer upon the grain. In the SCF-B feeder, rations of concentrate were metered out upon the grain by augers on each tier placed after the grain hopper. The CF and SCF hens were given grain ad lib. Bat...
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