Research Information System
Brazilian Journal of Poultry Science, vol.26, no.1, pp.1-8, 2024 (SCI-Expanded)
This study was conducted to investigate the influence of two
different production systems on the welfare of a new Turkish egglaying hybrid known as Akbay. A total of 180 Akbay hens at the 80th
week of production either reared in a free-range system or conventional
cages were used. Live body weight at the 80th week of production
was recorded, as well as the weight of immune organs and liver.
Plumage damage, foot lesions, stress, and fear were examined. It was
observed that the live body weight at the 80th week of production
was significantly (p<0.05) higher in the free-range birds as compared
to those housed in cages. The rectal temperature was statistically
higher (p<0.05) in hens reared in the free-range systems than in those
housed in the conventional cages. The percentage of hens with mild
to severe foot lesions was higher in the free-range system than in the
conventional cages. Plumage damages were more common and severe
among hens in cages than among free-range hens. No significant
differences were recorded for tonic immobility (TI), the duration of the
first head movement, and the number of inductions during TI. The
fluctuating asymmetry of the leg and the weight of immune organs
and liver were also not significantly different between the housing
systems. The housing of laying hens in free range systems improved live
body weight with a reduction in stress and feather damage. However,
it is suggested that further research should aim at improving the foot
lesion issues associated with this housing system.