Comparison of linear mixed models for genetic feather score analysis in laying hens kept in recurrent testing facilities.

ABSTRACT: Feather pecking, related feather damage, and mortality are crucial welfare and efficiency traits in laying hens. When individuals are kept in sib groups, genetic analysis of feather scores captures the performer and receiver components of feather damage due to pecking. Genetic parameters and breeding values estimated from such data with an ordinary linear mixed model refer to total breeding values. Thus, breeding against feather pecking-related mortality is possible by selecting breeding values for feather score when these are estimated from sib-groups. "Feather score" is part of the selection indexes of some breeding companies. However, there is no public information on the extensive evaluation and validation of the models used. Moreover, survival and feather score are genetically correla

SUBMITTER: Osorio-Gallardo T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11810823 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature