Improved animal welfare for broiler chickens through hatching indoors
An event organised by the North Rhine-Westphalia Chamber of Agriculture focusing on animal welfare, specifically the hatching of broiler chickens in barns, has attracted considerable interest
The chick rearing phase is of particular importance. Stress during the first few days of life, for example caused by transport from the hatchery to the farm, can trigger illness. Hatching broiler chicks in the house offers a way to minimise various stress factors for the chicks. Immediately after hatching, the chicks have access to water, feed and light. This benefits gut health. The birds are calmer and foot pad health also improves. Hatching in the house can therefore enhance animal welfare whilst minimising the risk of disease.
An online seminar organised by the North Rhine-Westphalia Chamber of Agriculture as part of the Focus on Animal Welfare network, attended by over 140 participants, demonstrated that there is considerable interest in the system. This is currently still in its infancy in Germany. First, Dr Sophia Schulze-Geisthövel from the North Rhine-Westphalia Chamber of Agriculture reported on the results of two trials at the VBZL Haus Düsse. Anton de Jong from the Heijmer hatchery then presented the Nestborn system, which was used last year to hatch more than 100 million chicks on farmers’ premises. Finally, Martin Otten, a broiler farmer from Emsbüren, reported on his practical experiences with hatching in his barn.
The event was very well received by the participants. The practical relevance and lively discussion were particularly well received.
Author: Viola Erfkämper, North Rhine-Westphalia Chamber of Agriculture