Grant: Collaborative Research and Development Grants

Despite mounting evidence that infrared beak treatment (IRBT) is less detrimental to the welfare of egg production birds than more traditional forms of beak trimming (i.e. hot-blade), societal concern still exist for any form of beak manipulation. In fact, a number of countries have banned any beak treatments, including IR.This creates a different economic and welfare concern, as beak treatment remains arguably the most effective means of controlling cannibalism. It is important, then, that we understand if and what changes occur in the bird when IR beak treatment is used. While research has previously compared the impact of IR treatment on pullet and hen production and behaviour, little has been done to aid in understanding of the impact that sloughing of the beak tissue that occurs with IRBT has on ability of the pullet to drink, peck and their overall behaviour. Therefore, the objectives of this work are to focus on the impact of IRBT on brown and white pullets reared initially in cages or floor pens. This research will examine how various settings of the IR equipment impact behavioural activities of young pullets. We will assess if treatment affects how birds feed and drink, and whether that has an impact on liveability of the young birds. We will also study in detail how the beak tissue is sloughed after treatment, and again, what impact this has on feeding behaviour. Finally, we want to understand if the procedure causes pain or sensation for the bird that alters its ability to use the beak (peck) by focusing on motivation to feed and the use of a novel pecking force plate. Production and behaviour will be monitored throughout the egg production period as well, as this tells us about the complete life of the bird. The outcomes of this work will include valuable and detailed information on the impact that IRBT have on egg production pullets, leading to improvements in management practices, and the training of 1 HQP in aspects of poultry management and welfare, creating a valuable future asset in the Canadian poultry industry. The work may help to alleviate consumer concerns with regards to the procedure, and finally is important for bird welfare, as it could lead to increased use of tools which are effective yet more welfare friendly.