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Improvement of the Welfare of Broilers by Changes to a Mechanical Unloading System

D. Tinker^*, P. Berry^*, R. White^*, N. Prescott^*, S. Welch^* and J. Lankhaar

^* Silsoe Research Institute, Wrest Park, Silsoe, Bedfordshire, MK45 4HS, United Kingdom
Stork PMT B.V., PO Box 118, 5830 AC Boxmeer, The Netherlands

D. Tinker, E-mail: d.tinker{at}ntlworld.com

Assessing the impact on broiler welfare of mechanized poultry-handling equipment in commercial plants is not readily amenable to normal research techniques. This study, comparing 2 versions of a tipping-type unloader for broiler transport containers, has successfully compared qualitative and quantitative techniques. Closed circuit television was used to record images of broilers during the unloading process. For the quantitative analysis, objective data included the proportion of birds flapping their wings, climbing onto other birds during the initial unloading phase, and losing their balance during the transition between conveyor belts. A preference panel viewed the same images and provided a qualitative assessment. Both of the assessments, quantitative and qualitative, compared the welfare of the birds during unloading in the 2 versions of unloaders. The revised version (Mk II) included design changes to improve the flow of birds through the system and to reduce agitation of the birds. Both sets of assessment showed that the design changes had significantly improved the selected indicators for bird welfare.

Key Words: welfare • mechanical unloading • transport system • poultry behavior • broiler