From an ethical point of view a longer life for laying hens is desired. Then, hens can be used for a longer period and less male chicks would have to be killed at the age of one day.
In large flocks of laying hens moulting has to be induced to prevent social instability in the flock.
Project aims
A method was investigated in order to moult laying hens without too much stress for the hens.
Results, conclusion, state of the art
The chosen method with daily access to a winter garden had no detectable negative effect on the behaviour of the hens. The moulting succeeded in improving egg quality and plumage condition.
