BEHAVIOR OF LAYING HENS DURING INDUCED MOLTING IN 3 DIFFERENT PRODUCTION SYSTEMS

This article is a critical investigation of how methods of moulting are practised by farmers. Dekalb hens were fasted with a reduced photoperiod to induce moult and hence lengthen the total egg laying period in three housing systems, namely wire floor, multifloor (globovolg) and battery cages. The behaviour of the hens was compared with their behaviour during the production period. It became evident that the hens were frustrated at the time of feed deprivation, leading to increases in object pecking, locomotion and negative social interaction activities in the wire floor and globovolg systems. The behaviour of hens in cages during both production and moulting periods did not show any changes. At 4 days of fasting, resting activity dominated and during the moulting period (when new feathers were pushing out old feathers), the hens were almost inactive. © 1990.