Managing laying hen flocks with intact beaks

Publication date: 17/03/2017
Extent: 14 pages

Contributions by: Thea van Niekerk, Wageningen Livestock Research, The Netherlands

Chapter synopsis: Worldwide, the majority of laying hens are beak trimmed to prevent injurious pecking. However, a ban on beak treatments has come into force in some countries, while others are discussing instituting such a ban. European legislation also prohibits beak treatment of organic flocks. When beak trimming is not practiced, farmers face the challenge of preventing injurious pecking behaviour in their flocks. Many environmental factors have been identified as affecting the onset and severity of feather pecking, and good management of these factors can prevent the onset of feather pecking or help to prevent escalation once feather pecking starts. In this chapter we review types of feather pecking and consider the origins of the behaviour. We then offer detailed discussion of management techniques for the prevention of feather pecking, during both rearing and the laying period.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2016.0012.32