Loading-related injuries of mechanically loaded broilers under field conditions

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Veterinary Medicine
• Agricultural Engineering

Background:

• Mechanical loading of broilers is a critical phase impacting animal welfare.
• Understanding factors contributing to injuries during loading is essential for improving broiler health.
• Previous studies have not comprehensively analyzed the multifactorial influences on loading-related injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess animal health and welfare during mechanical loading of broilers.
• To investigate the influence of various factors on loading-related injuries in broilers.
• To identify specific husbandry systems, loading conditions, and management practices that minimize broiler injuries.

Main Methods:

• On-farm assessment of broiler injuries (fractures, hematomas, abrasions) before and after mechanical loading.
• Analysis of data from two husbandry systems (HS 2 and HS 3) and three fattening methods (FM).
• Statistical evaluation of the impact of conveyor belt speed, container type, HS, FM, season, and sex on injury occurrence.

Main Results:

• Hematomas on the wing (6.55%) and wing tip (6.17%) were the most frequent injuries.
• Slow conveyor belt speed, SmartStack containers, and spring/summer loadings significantly reduced injury rates.
• Husbandry System 3 (HS 3) and Premium/Standard Premium fattening methods showed significantly lower risks for severe wing injuries and abrasions compared to HS 2 and Standard FM.

Conclusions:

• Conveyor belt speed, container type, and season are key modifiable factors for reducing broiler injuries during mechanical loading.
• Husbandry system and specific fattening methods, influenced by factors like genotype, stocking density, and enrichment, play a significant role in broiler injury risk.
• Optimizing loading procedures and husbandry practices can substantially improve broiler health and welfare, reducing the incidence of fractures, hematomas, and abrasions.