An attempt to use sound-imprinting to attract broilers onto elevated platforms for night-time roosting

• DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105448
• Publication Date: 2021-09-11T19:20:44Z
• Authors: Janja Sirovnik; Pascal Euteneuer; Uta König von Bor...
• Keywords: Imprinting (psychology); Barn

Welfare of fast growing broilers is often compromised due to leg health issues. A more complex environment such as the provision elevated platforms facilitates activity and improves in broilers. Thus, encouraging use might further enhance health. Chickens are known follow mother roost, if not vicinity chicks will her vocalisations. This study aimed investigate, whether exposing broiler chickens a sound before and/or after hatching could be used manipulate move onto for roosting. We identify effects sound-imprinting on chickens' 2 by factorial design was used, were either imprinted white noise or imprinted. After seven days treatment post hatching, speakers installed above platform played same recording exposure 10 min each day. Thereafter, barn lights turned off four hours. The from non-imprinted chickens. Starting at eight age, we weekly recorded number birds playback, all changes position between floor movements away playback source (i.e. speaker) s recordings. Furthermore, assessed gait score pododermatitis breast blisters slaughter 42 age. Data analysed with Generalized Linear Mixed Models. Our results show that imprinting (or our attempts thereof) had no effect well any score. Additional research needs identify, auditory strengthened using visual cues sensitive post-hatching period, another natural (e.g. broody hen) can elicit stronger effect.