Influence of Different Stocking Densities on Some Blood Parameters in Laying Hens

Abstract

The aim of the scientific work is to study the changes in the hematological indicators of chickens when they are kept at a high stocking density. In the conditions of the current complex for the formation of eggs, 4 groups of laying hens were formed. The results showed that high stocking density to 24.0 birds m-2 was accompanied by an increase in their blood of leukocytes by 12.2%, heterophils – by 1.8%, and a decrease in thrombocytes’ concentration by 4.0%. Provided that the planting density is increased to 25.3 birds m-2, there was an increase in the content of leukocytes by 13.7%, heterophils – by 3.1%, and a decrease in thrombocytes concentration by 10.8% with a decrease in their volume by 9.2%. Further increase in stocking density to 26.7 birds m-2 caused an increase in the blood content of leukocytes by 22.7%, heterophils – by 13.5%, and a decrease in thrombocytes concentration by 69.0% with a decrease in their volume by 18.6%. Thus, the high stocking density of laying hens is shown by changes in their hematological parameters, which is reflected in the increase of leukocytes, due to an increase in the number of heterophils, and a decrease in thrombocytes.

Keywords

• bird
• hematological parameter
• heterophils
• leukocytes
• stocking density