Fracture morphology and ossification process of the keel bone in modern laying hens based on radiographic imaging.

Keel bone fractures (KBF) are one of the most important welfare problems in commercial laying hens. Despite extensive research on the matter, its etiology remains unclear. Studying fracture characteristics in radiographic images can aid in the understanding of the disorder.

Mortality risk on farm and during transport: a comparison of 2 broiler hybrids with different growth rates.

Mortality in broilers is often associated with poor health and welfare and has a complex and multifactorial etiology. Recent studies under experimental conditions indicated that genetic selection for fast growth is an important risk factor for mortality in broiler chickens. However, the knowledge on broiler mortality in general, and in slower growing broilers in particular, under commercial conditions is still limited.

A walk through the broiler breeder life: how do footpad dermatitis and gait scores develop from rearing to slaughter?

The two most common animal-based indicators used to evaluate leg health in broiler chickens are footpad dermatitis (FPD) and gait scoring, but these indicators are less explored in broiler breeders. This study is the first to investigate FPD and gait scoring in broiler breeders during their lifespan from rearing to end of life. In total, eight flocks were monitored (four Ross and four Hubbard) at five different timepoints, in rearing (5 and 15 weeks of age), during the production period (25 and 45 weeks of age) and at the end of the production period (approximately 60 weeks of age).

Health effects of feed dilution and roughage in Ross 308 broiler breeder cockerels.

To ensure reproductivity and prevent obesity, broiler breeder's growth rate is controlled by quantitative feed restriction. However, feed restriction is associated with chronic hunger, frustration, and abnormal behaviors, thus representing a welfare problem. Feed diluted with insoluble fiber is an alternative, allowing larger amounts of feed and more gut filling, increasing satiety without increasing the caloric intake.

Effect of light sources with and without UVA on selected behavior and health indicators in commercial broiler breeder flocks.

As new light sources are being developed for poultry houses, systematic investigations on how these influence behavior and health in commercial broiler breeders are needed. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 2 light sources (Evolys with UVA (LED) and Biolux 965 (CFL)) on the behavior and health of 2 broiler breeder hybrids during the production period. Eight commercial breeder flocks (Ross 308 n = 4, Hubbard JA757 n = 4) with Evolys (Ross n = 2, Hubbard n = 2) or Biolux (Ross n = 2, Hubbard n = 2) were visited at 25 and 50 wk of age to record behavior and health.