Phosphorus Retention Materials In Outdoor Paddocks And Distribution Of Laying Hens During The Grazing Period

Summary

This study compared the P retention materials sand and limestone with gravel in a randomized block design with three replicates to evaluate the effect on hens’ distribution in the paddock between 1 May and 31 October. Each flock included 76 animals having access to a paddock (3.4 x 19.9 m), where material (3.4 x 3.0 x 0.2 m) was placed outside the pop-hole. The average amounts of hens’ outdoors were documented at 9 am and 3 pm each day. There was no significant difference between the materials concerning hens’ distribution and they seemed to be equally comfortable. Instead weather conditions influenced hen distribution. The sub-area with material close to the house was more frequently used by hens during the hot and dry summer. The hen’s choice was promoted by a roof above the pop-hole giving shade. With lower temperatures and rain showers later the hens’ distribution pattern changed significantly (P<0.001) and they were more evenly distributed over the paddock area during autumn.