Evaluating broiler welfare and behavior as affected by growth rate and stocking density

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Poultry Husbandry
• Animal Welfare

Background:

• Cobb 700 broilers are widely raised for meat production.
• Growth rate (GR) and stocking density (SD) are key management factors influencing broiler welfare and performance.
• Understanding the interplay between GR and SD is crucial for optimizing production and welfare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of different growth rates and stocking densities on Cobb 700 broiler welfare and behavior.
• To assess key welfare indicators such as gait score, bone strength, feather coverage, and footpad condition.
• To analyze the impact of GR and SD on broiler activity, feeding behavior, and overall production performance.

Main Methods:

• Three growth rates were established: standard (>60 g/d), medium (50-60 g/d), and slower (<50 g/d) by controlling feed intake.
• Broilers were reared at two stocking densities: 30 kg/m² and 40 kg/m².
• Welfare indicators, activity index, and time spent at feeders were measured at specific body weights and throughout the production cycle.

Main Results:

• Slower-growth broilers reached market weight later (62 days vs. 45 days for standard) and had poorer feed conversion ratios (1.80 vs. 1.57).
• Slower-growth broilers exhibited improved activity, feather coverage, and gait scores compared to standard and medium-growth groups.
• Lower stocking density (30 kg/m²) resulted in better bone strength and footpad condition than higher density (40 kg/m²).

Conclusions:

• Reducing growth rate and stocking density can enhance broiler welfare, particularly leg health and feather condition.
• These welfare improvements come at the cost of significantly longer production cycles and reduced production performance.
• Management strategies should balance the trade-offs between broiler welfare and economic production efficiency.