Effects of barrier perches and stocking density on the behavior, space use, and leg health of the domestic fowl (Gallus gallus domesticus)

摘要: Title of Thesis: EFFECTS OF BARRIER PERCHES AND STOCKING DENSITY ON THE BEHAVIOR, SPACE USE, LEG HEALTH DOMESTIC FOWL (GALLUS GALLUS DOMESTICUS) Beth Ventura, Master Science, 2009 Thesis Directed By: Professor, Dr. Inmaculada Estevez, Department Animal and Avian Sciences The objective this study was to discern whether providing enrichment in the form barrier perches across a range densities might improve leg foot health promote behavioral expression more even use space broilers. To investigate this, 2,088 day-old broiler chicks were randomly assigned one three treatments at densities. Effects on behavior, use, hock health, tibia fluctuating asymmetry, fear production subsequently assessed. Higher appeared compromise welfare, seen by increased length poorer suppression activity, disturbances, decreased space. Conversely, – particularly simple barriers footpad quality, perching decrease aggression central pen space, all without negatively impacting traits.