Defra probe into laying systems

The most detailed investigation yet into the welfare levels in free range and other laying systems has been launched by Defra.

Twenty-four laying farms are taking part in the study which will continue until 2007. As well as free range it will examine barn, furnished cages and conventional cages.

Producers are submitting weekly reports on husbandry and welfare and will also complete a “reasons for mortality” record.

Three times during the laying period of each flock researchers from Bristol University will visit the farms to carry out a detailed analysis of bird health and activity. As well as “all normal activity” they will monitor:

the number of birds using the range

the incidence of collisions or poor landings by birds (associated with bone breakages)

pecking and cannibalism

density of red mite

the number of “frustration vocalisations” made by birds

ammonia levels

Automatic hourly records of air temperature, relative humidity and light levels will also be recorded. Faecal samples will be taken from which stress levels can be monitored.

Photographs of birds carrying degrees of feather damage will also be used to establish a standard condition rating system and at the end of lay the individual health of birds will be recorded by examination of bodies at spent hen plants.

In addition a flock of birds will be reared, by Deans Foods, especially for the study. Coming from the same hatch and reared in identical conditions they will be split between the four housing systems at point of lay and monitored throughout their life.

Dr Chris Sherwin, who is leading the team, commented: “Although this study is at its earliest stages there are initial indications that feather pecking and blood on eggs is more prevalent and more severe in free range flocks compared to conventional cages.”