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Handling and transport of spent hens*

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  18 September 2007

T.G. Knowles
T.G. Knowles
Affiliation:
School of Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Langford, Bristol BS18 7DY, UK
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Abstract

The procedures normally used for the removal of hens from cages at the end of their laying cycle and their subsequent transport to the slaughterhouse are described. Because 30% of live birds arriving at the slaughterhouse have been found to have one or more broken bones, discussion is focused on the principal factors involved in the aetiology of such lesions. These include the reduction in bone strength due to mineral depletion during lay, restricted physical movement and exercise within cages and the methods used to remove birds from their cages, in addition to the other sources of potential trauma associated with transportation from the farm to the processing plant.

Keywords

Bonesbreakageinjuryhandlinghensmortalitytransportwelfare
Type
Research Article
Information
World's Poultry Science Journal , Volume 50 , Issue 1 , March 1994 , pp. 60 - 61
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1994

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References

* Presented at a WPSA UK Branch Symposium at Scarborough on 18 March 1993.