McDonald’s research sheds light on impact and causes of smothering in hens

McDonald’s urges nest box manufacturers to consider issue of hen smothering in future designs
McDonald’s urges nest box manufacturers to consider issue of hen smothering in future designs

McDonald’s has unveiled the results of the second phase of its project examining the impact and causes of smothering in free range laying hens.

The project was funded by McDonald’s UK as part of its 'Farm Forward' programme and undertaken by FAI Farms, together with its suppliers Noble Foods Ltd and The Lakes Free Range Egg Company who form part of the Sustainable Egg Supply Group.

The first phase of the project published in 2014, revealed that more than half of commercial free range laying hen flocks are affected by smothering and that it is an unpredictable and difficult issue for farm managers to address.

Smothering can occur in the nest box, panic from stressful events outside of the next boxes or other reasons not easily identifiable.

Tom Willings, Noble Foods Ltd, added: "This project is a fantastic example of cross-functional constructive work between customers and suppliers."
Tom Willings, Noble Foods Ltd, added: "This project is a fantastic example of cross-functional constructive work between customers and suppliers."

It occurs when birds mass together, often on top of each other, which can result in death from suffocation.

This second phase explored the relationships between frequency of smothering and bird health, as well as housing design and management practices.

The researchers found no relationship between health and incidences of smothering.

However, a relationship was established between the frequency of smothering and particular management techniques and system designs.

'Serious problem'

Speaking of the project, Annie Rayner, Research Scientist at FAI, said the research has raised the industry’s understanding of the welfare and economic implications of smothering.

"We are beginning to learn what actions are needed to address the underlying causes of this serious problem," Miss Rayner said.

Smothering in the nest boxes was found to be affected by both the breed of bird and the type of nest box design.

Nest box design was also found to affect smothering occurring outside of the nestboxes, perhaps reflecting different layouts of housing.

Further research is required to understand the specific details of these affects.

McDonalds' research believes that the impact of this issue should be taken into consideration by nest box manufacturers when designing housing systems and by genetics companies in their future breed development.

Feeding grit or grain on the litter was found specifically to reduce smothering that occur away from the nestbox.

Additional findings also suggest that the provision of tree canopy cover on ranges may also be important to ensure optimal bird welfare in terms of reduced smothering.

Connor McVeigh, Supply Chain Director, McDonald’s UK added: “We have now invested in two studies on hen smothering which remains a welfare issue we still know little about.

"While there are some on farm measures farmers can take to reduce the chance of smothering occurring, it’s clear that the industry needs a joined up approach to tackle this problem.”