Einfluss von Bestandsgröße und Haltungsbedingungen auf Leistung, Mortalität und Gefiederzustand von Legehennen in Biobetrieben

Summary

Aim of the study was to test possible influences on performance parameters in com-mercial layer farms. 106 flocks at 70 organic farms in Germany were investigated. Egg performance and mortality were collected from farm records. The integument of the hens was assessed with a scoring index (plumage condition and injuries).
Egg performance was higher at bigger farms. These farms showed often a better management (e.g. more health records or feed analyses). However, plumage was scored worse with increasing stock size. Bigger farms had higher densities in the hen house and at equipments like nests, feeders or drinkers. Therefore, more intensive housing conditions could have been the cause of plumage damages.