Beak trial shows early promise
Early indications from an industry-led study into infra-red beak treatment suggest there are no adverse welfare problems associated with the technique.
The trial—partly funded by BFREPA along with the British Egg Association and Defra—has involved studying a total of 600 chicks placed on two rearing farms. Birds which underwent the infra-red treatment at day-old were compared with birds that had either been conventionally beak trimmed, also at day-old, or had received no treatment at all.
The process under investigation involves exposing the tip of the beak to the effects of infra-red and the targeted area crumbles away over a period of two to three weeks, avoiding the open would associated with conventional hot-blade trimming. The treatment was carried out at Hy-Line's modern hatchery in the midlands which is the only commercial layer hatchery in the UK to have one of the American-designed infra-red machines installed.
Rearing facilities were supplied by Deans Foods and Country Fresh Pullets where the birds were penned in groups of ten and their behaviour observed twice a day by specially trained staff. The time each group spent feeding; drinking; sleeping; standing; walking and running; pecking; and preening was recorded. In addition, regular measurements of the birds' beaks were taken throughout the rearing period along with checks on bodyweight.
The data is now being analysed by Dr Mike Gentle who was responsible for carrying out extensive research into the welfare implications of conventional beak-trimming in the nineties. And while no conclusions can be drawn ahead of Dr Gentle's official report, Steve Carlyle, managing director of Country Fresh Pullets, told the Ranger there were no obvious signs that the infra-red treatment had affected either the birds' behaviour or growth rate.
"From the experience on our own farm early indications look very positive and we eagerly await Dr Gentle's findings," said Mr Carlyle. "The main advantage of the infra-red treatment is that it is not an invasive procedure."
The study now moves into its second stage which involves larger groups of birds on a commercial scale. The plan, says the BEIC which is leading the research project, is to split flocks into those conventionally beak-trimmed and those treated using the infra-red process and study the birds not only in rear but also throughout a complete laying cycle. Producers will be asked to observe any differences in behaviour and to compare mortality levels.
It is hoped that the new beak treatment will prove to be an acceptable alternative to the current method of hot blade trimming which is due to be banned from 2011. The BEIC has already requested that the government carries out a full review of the available science and genetic progress ahead of implementing the ban.
"It is vital that we use the time between now and the proposed ban to increase our knowledge and information about the infra-red technique," says BEIC chief executive Mark Williams. "Extensive field trial results will strengthen the credibility of the study."
