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Cages modified with perches and nests for the improvement of bird welfare

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  23 March 2009

M.C. Appleby  and
B.O. Hughes
M.C. Appleby
Affiliation:
The Edinburgh School of Agriculture, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK
B.O. Hughes
Affiliation:
The Edinburgh School of Agriculture, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK
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Abstract

Preliminary results are given from studies of cage-housed birds provided with various combinations of nest sites (of various designs), perches (placed at the front or back of the cages) and dust bath boxes. Tibial bone strength in end-of-lay hens was found to be markedly greater where perches were provided – suggesting a clear benefit from this addition. Complex nesting facilities (external nest boxes) elicited more normal pre-laying behaviour than nest sites within the cage. There appeared to be a need for two nests for group sizes of four or five birds.

Keywords

Behaviourcagedesignegg productionnestingperchingwelfare
Type
Reviews
Information
World's Poultry Science Journal , Volume 46 , Issue 1 , March 1990 , pp. 38 - 40
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1990

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References

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