Sustainability in the Canadian Egg Industry – Translating Science into Practice
In this presentation, Dr. Nathan Pelletier will review the key components and outcomes of a research program, which has culminated in the creation of the National Environmental Sustainability Tool (NEST). […]
Feather pecking in layers
Feather pecking is a behavioural problem, which can be caused by environmental, genetic, or nutritional factors. The common age for feather pecking is during peak egg production, but it can happen earlier and once it starts, it is difficult to control. Feather pecking behaviour can be categorized into different levels based on the severity of the pecking and the body part being pecked: gentle feather pecking without removal of feathers, severe feather pecking leading to feather loss, aggressive pecking especially on head and neck, tissue pecking in featherless areas, and vent pecking. Damaged plumage, reduction in feed efficiency, increased injury, and cannibalism are some potential outcomes of severe feather pecking. Read on to learn more!
Should I lay, or should I grow? Management of Layer and Broiler Breeder Pullets for optimum reproduction
Although managing growth trajectories via feed restriction programs is key to the success of broiler breeder management, it has not been a focus for layer pullets which are typically fed […]