The effect of piling behavior on the production and mortality of free-range laying hens.

ABSTRACT: Piling, a dense cluster of hens, is a behavior of major concern to the cage-free egg industry. It can cause large numbers of mortalities at which point it is considered smothering. The aim of this study was to quantify whether piling can also have consequences on production and non-smothering mortalities, which have not previously been described. Additionally, we aimed to describe characteristics of piling behavior relevant to for management. Video footage from 12 flocks of laying hens was analyzed for piling behavior across 3 wks. Production and mortality data were accessed using an integrated online management system. Bayesian linear mixed-effect models were used for formal statistical testing of the relationships between piling and production. Accounting for some missing data, a total o

SUBMITTER: Armstrong D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10465951 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature