The Changes in Behavioural Traits of Broiler Chickens Reared on Littered and Slatted Floor Systems in Relation to Age and Time of the Day
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24925/turjaf.v14i6.1683-1691.8712Keywords:
Behavior, Age, day-time variation, slat, litter, welfareAbstract
This study aimed to investigate the effects of different flooring systems (fully littered, fully slatted, and litter-slatted combinations) on welfare, behavioural traits, and body defects in broiler chicken production. In the study, a total of 600 broilers (Ross-308); were analysed for passive, active, and comfort behaviour based on the age and time of day, while physical defects such as footpad dermatitis (FPD), hock burns, and body dirtiness were evaluated at 42 days. The research findings revealed that as age advanced and body weight increased, the active behaviour repertoire of the broilers were significantly restricted and passive behaviours became dominant. In particular, a sharp decline in activity was observed after the 27th day; active behaviours were found to be concentrated in the morning and mid-day, while passive behaviours increased in the afternoon. Statistical analyses showed positive correlations between body weight and hock burns, feather condition, and body dirtiness, but no direct relationship between FPD and body weight. No statistical difference in litter moisture content was found among all groups except the fully slatted system. In conclusion, the welfare problems and physical defects observed in the study appear to be caused by mechanical pressure resulting from the birds' genetic potential for fast growth and the associated increase in body weight, rather than the type of flooring material or litter quality.
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