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Evaluation of the potential killing performance of novel percussive and cervical dislocation tools in chicken
J E Martin1,2,3, D E F McKeegan3, J Sparrey4
1a Animal Behaviour and Welfare , SRUC, Roslin Institute Building , Easter Bush, Edinburgh , UK.
Abstract:
1. Four mechanical poultry killing devices; modified Armadillo (MARM), modified Rabbit Zinger (MZIN), modified pliers (MPLI) and a novel mechanical cervical dislocation (NMCD) gloved device, were assessed for their killing potential in the cadavers of euthanised birds. 2. A 4 × 4 × 4 factorial design (batch × device × bird type + age) was employed. Ten bird cadavers per bird type and age were tested with each of the 4 devices (N = 160 birds). All cadavers were examined post-mortem to establish the anatomical damage caused. 3. NMCD, MARM and MZIN demonstrated killing potential, as well as consistency in their anatomical effects. NMCD had the highest killing potential, with 100% of birds sustaining the required physical trauma to have caused rapid death. 4. The MPLI was inconsistent, and only performed optimally for 27.5% of birds. Severe crushing injury was seen in >50% of MPLI birds, suggesting that birds would die of asphyxia rather than cerebral ischaemia, a major welfare concern. As a result, the MPLI are not recommended as a humane on-farm killing device for chickens. 5. This experiment provides important data on the killing potential of untried novel percussive and mechanical cervical dislocation methods, informing future studies.
Insights
The novel mechanical cervical dislocation (NMCD) device and two modified devices showed effective poultry killing potential. However, modified pliers (MPLI) were inconsistent and caused significant injury, making them unsuitable for humane on-farm killing.
Area of Science:
- Poultry Welfare Science
- Agricultural Engineering
- Veterinary Pathology
Background:
- Effective and humane killing methods are crucial for poultry welfare.
- Existing mechanical devices require further evaluation for consistency and anatomical impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the killing potential and anatomical effects of four mechanical poultry killing devices.
- To identify humane and effective on-farm killing methods for chickens.
Main Methods:
- Four devices were tested on 160 euthanized bird cadavers using a 4x4x4 factorial design.
- Devices included modified Armadillo (MARM), modified Rabbit Zinger (MZIN), modified pliers (MPLI), and novel mechanical cervical dislocation (NMCD).
- Post-mortem examination assessed anatomical damage and determined killing effectiveness.
Main Results:
- NMCD, MARM, and MZIN demonstrated consistent killing potential and anatomical effects.
- NMCD achieved 100% effectiveness, causing rapid death trauma in all tested birds.
- MPLI showed inconsistency (27.5% optimal performance) and caused severe crushing injuries, indicating potential asphyxia rather than cerebral ischemia.
Conclusions:
- The novel mechanical cervical dislocation (NMCD) device is a highly effective and consistent poultry killing method.
- Modified Armadillo (MARM) and modified Rabbit Zinger (MZIN) devices also show promise for humane killing.
- Modified pliers (MPLI) are not recommended due to inconsistency and welfare concerns associated with severe crushing injuries.
