PSIII-8 A risk factor analysis of health traits in turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) on Canadian farms

Abstract

Abstract Current production systems for commercial turkeys can lead to challenges including the development of footpad dermatitis (FPD) and aggressive pecking. Both have welfare and economic implications for turkey production. To date, there have been no epidemiological studies conducted in Canada on risk factors for either FPD or aggressive pecking. In this study, over 500 turkey farmers across Canada will receive a cross-sectional survey which includes a health-scoring guide and a questionnaire. Farmers will be asked to record the health status of 30 turkeys on their farms using the illustrated instructions to score head injuries, skin damage, and FPD. The information on head injuries and skin damage will provide insight into the prevalence of aggressive pecking within the flock. Farmers will score these areas on a three-point scale where a score of zero indicates no damage and two indicates severe damage. Additionally, an inventory of housing and management practices will be taken on each farm using a questionnaire covering topics on bird characteristics, lighting, air quality, litter quality, feeding, and health. The data obtained from this survey will be used to 1) estimate the prevalence of FPD and pecking injuries, 2) describe housing and management practices, 3) identify risk factors for FPD and pecking injuries and 4) make recommendations to reduce the prevalence of FPD and pecking injuries. With the information from this study we plan to develop a management tool tailored to the Canadian industry to reduce FPD and pecking injuries on Canadian farms.