Solutions to improve the catching, handling, and crating as part of the depopulation process of end of lay hens

Abstract

SUMMARY: The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of 2 interventions (i.e., 2 treatments across 2 independent experiments, each with its own control) that were thought to reduce fractures and stress-related responses (e.g., changes in cloacal and comb temperature, respiration rate and tonic immobility [TI]) during the catching, handling, and crating part of the depopulation process. In the cart treatment, hens were immediately crated instead of carrying them to the crating area in order to minimize handling time, stress, and risk of injury to hens. The second intervention, the blue light treatment, used custom blue light modules with the aim of improving visibility for the workers in the barn, facilitating the catching and carrying process, leading to improved handling (e.g., fewer collisions with the pen furniture). The analysis revealed that neither the cart nor the blue light treatment effectively reduced fractures or stress-related responses compared to the control. Possible explanations for the lack of findings include unfamiliarity with the work routine, unsuitable light intensity or orientation, and insufficient sample size. Despite the fact that the treatments failed to improve hen welfare in regard to the examined parameters, treatments may still improve working conditions as well as efficiency without negative effects on hen welfare. Whether a combination of the cart and blue light treatment and increased familiarity with the cart system would result in increased welfare of hens is unclear and should be the focus of future efforts.

Keywords

• depopulation
• fracture
• stress
• blue lights
• carts