meat chickens and breeding chickens

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meat chickens and breeding chickens codes of recommendations for the welfare of livestock

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meat chickens and breeding chickens

Further copies of this publication are available from:The Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Department

Room 350Pentland House47 Robb’s Loan

EdinburghEH14 1TY

tel: 0131 244 6117

Crown Copyright September 2004www.scotland.gov.uk

Astron B37838 11-04

codes of recommendations for the welfare of livestock

CODES OF RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE WELFARE OF LIVESTOCK:

MEAT CHICKENS AND BREEDING CHICKENS

NOTEThis Code is produced in terms of Section 3 of the Agriculture

(Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1968 (1968 c.34).

This Section allows the Scottish Ministers, after consultation, to prepare codes of recommendations for the welfare of livestock.

This Code was laid before Parliament as is required by Section 3 of the above Act.

The power to produce these codes was transferred to the Scottish Ministers by virtue of Section 53 of the Scotland Act 1998 (1998 c.46).

Any reference in this Code to advisory publications is for information only and does not form part of this Code.

27information

code of recommendations for the welfare of meat chickens and breeding chickens

Copies of the above publications can beobtained, free of charge, from:

DEFRA PublicationsAdmail 6000LondonSW1A 2XXTelephone Orders (for free publications) 0845 955 6000Telephone Enquiries: 0845 955 6000Email: [email protected]: http://www.defra.gov.uk

These publications are updated on a regularbasis; for more information on the mostcurrent versions and new literature pleasecontact DEFRA's Animal Welfare Division on020 7904 6513

Copies of the legislation quoted in the Codeare available from The Stationery Office:

TSO Scotland71 Lothian RoadEdinburgh EH3 9AZTelephone orders: 0870 606 5566Email: [email protected]: http://www.tso.com

FURTHER INFORMATIONIf you would like any further information oradvice relating to this code please contact theScottish Executive Rural Affairs Department,Animal Health and Welfare Branch on 0131 244 6117.

PAGES PARAGRAPHS

Preface 1-3Introduction 4 1-4Stockmanship and Staffing 5 5-10Feed and Water 6-7 11-18Health

Inspection 8-9 19-24Disease Control 9-10 25-31Leg health 10 32-34

MutilationsGeneral 11 35Beak trimming 11-12 36-37Dubbing 12 38Despurring 12 39Declawing 12 40Toe removal 12 41

Buildings and AccommodationGeneral 13 42-43Ventilation and temperature 13-14 44-47Heat stress 14 48-51Lighting 14-15 52-53Litter 15 54-55Emergency Procedures 15 56-58Stocking Density, Freedom of Movement 16 59-64Automatic Or Mechanical Equipment 17 65-68Additional Requirements For Free Range Birds 18 69-72Record Keeping 19 73-74Catching, Handling and Transport 20-21 75-83Additional Recommendations for Breeding Chickens

Breeding Procedures 22 –Feed and Water 22 84-89Parent breeding chickens 23 90-94Elite (pedigree) birds 23 95-96Buildings and accommodation 23-24 97-99Stocking density, freedom of movement 24 100Catching, handling and transport 24 101

Disposal of Surplus Chicks and Embryos in Hatchery Waste 25 102Appendix

Useful publications 26Information 27

contents

code of recommendations for the welfare of meat chickens and breeding chickens

This preface is not part of the Code but isintended to explain its purpose and to indicatethe broad considerations upon which it isbased. Similarly, the legislation quoted in boxesthroughout the document is not part of theCode but is intended to highlight some of thelegal requirements. The law, as quoted in theseboxes, is that in force either on the date ofpublication or reprinting of the Code (pleaseturn to the back cover for this information).Readers should be aware that any of the legalrequirements quoted might be subject tochange – they should seek confirmation beforeassuming that these are an accurate statementof the law currently in force.

Regulation 10 of the Welfare of FarmedAnimals (Scotland) Regulations 2000 (S.S.I.2000 No. 442), as amended, provides that:

– Any person who employs or engages aperson to attend to animals must ensure thatthe person attending to the animals

– is acquainted with the provisions of allrelevant statutory welfare codes relating to theanimals being attended to;

– has access to a copy of those codes whilethat person is attending to the animals; and

– has received instruction and guidance onthose Codes.

– Any person who keeps animals, or whocauses or knowingly permits animals to bekept, must not attend to them unless thatperson has access to all relevant statutorywelfare codes relating to the animals while thatperson is attending to them, and is acquaintedwith the provisions of those codes.

In Regulation 2 it states that “statutory welfarecode” means a code for the time being issuedby Scottish Ministers under Section 3 of theAgriculture (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act1968[3].

To cause unnecessary pain or unnecessarydistress to any livestock on agricultural land isan offence under Section 1(1) of theAgriculture (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act1968. The breach of a code provision, whilstnot an offence in itself, can nevertheless beused in evidence as tending to establish theguilt of anyone accused of causing the offenceof causing unnecessary pain or distress underthe Act (Section 3(4)).

Regulation 3(1) of the Welfare of FarmedAnimals (Scotland) Regulations 2000 (S.S.I.2000 No. 442), as amended, states that ownersand keepers of animals must take all reasonablesteps:

– to ensure the welfare of the animals undertheir care; and

– to ensure that the animals are not causedany unnecessary pain, suffering or

– injury.

Regulation 3(3) of the Welfare of FarmedAnimals (Scotland) Regulations 2000 (S.S.I.2000 No. 442), as amended, states that:

– In deciding whether the conditions underwhich animals are being bred or kept complywith the requirements set out in Schedule 1 ofthe Regulations, the owner and keeper of theanimals must have regard to their species, andto their degree of development, adaptation anddomestication, and to their physiological andethological needs in accordance withestablished experience and scientificknowledge.

Regulation 11 of the Welfare of FarmedAnimals (Scotland) Regulations 2000 (S.S.I.2000 No. 442), as amended, states that:

– Where an authorised person considers thatanimals are being kept in a way which is likelyto cause unnecessary pain, suffering or injury,or in any way in contravention of any provision

1preface

code of recommendations for the welfare of meat chickens and breeding chickens

of these Regulations, the authorised personmay serve a notice on whoever appears to be incharge of the animals requiring the personappearing to be in charge, within the periodstated in the notice, to take any action that theauthorised person considers to be reasonablynecessary to ensure compliance with theseRegulations and the authorised person mustgive his reasons for requiring that action to betaken.

Regulation 13(2) of the Welfare of FarmedAnimals (Scotland) Regulations 2000 (S.S.I.2000 No. 442), as amended, states that:

– In any proceedings against an owner orkeeper for a failure to comply with Regulation3(1) or 3(2) (as read with Regulation 3(3) theowner or keeper as the case may be, may rely on compliance with any relevantrecommendation contained in a statutorywelfare code, as tending to establishcompliance with the relevant Regulation.

The Code is intended to encourage all thosewho care for farm animals to adopt the higheststandards of husbandry. Without goodstockmanship, animal welfare can never beadequately protected. Adherence to theserecommendations will help flock-keepers toreach the required standard.

The welfare of meat chickens and breedingchickens is considered within a framework,elaborated by the Farm Animal WelfareCouncil, and known as the 'Five Freedoms'.These form a logical basis for the assessment ofwelfare within any system together with theactions necessary to safeguard welfare withinthe constraints of an efficient livestockindustry.

The Five Freedoms are:

1 Freedom from hunger and thirst– by ready access to fresh water and a dietto maintain full health and vigour;

2 Freedom from discomfort– by providing an appropriate environmentincluding shelter and a comfortable restingarea;

3 Freedom from pain, injury or disease– by prevention or rapid diagnosis andtreatment;

4 Freedom to express most normalbehaviour– by providing sufficient space, properfacilities and company of the animals’ ownkind;

5 Freedom from fear and distress– by ensuring conditions and treatmentwhich avoid mental suffering.

In acknowledging these freedoms, those whohave care of livestock should practise:

– caring and responsible planning andmanagement;

– skilled, knowledgeable and conscientiousstockmanship;

– appropriate environmental design (forexample of the husbandry system);

– considerate handling and transport;

– humane slaughter.

The Protection of Animals (Scotland) Act1912, as amended, contains the general lawrelating to cruelty to animals. Broadly it is anoffence (under Section 1 of the 1912 Act) to becruel to any domestic or captive animal byanything that is done or omitted to be done.

2

Section 11(2) of the 1912 Act empowers apolice constable to place in safe custody,animals in the charge of persons apprehendedfor an offence under the Act until the end ofproceedings or the court orders the return ofthe animals. The reasonable costs involved,including any necessary veterinary treatment,are recoverable by the police from the ownerupon conviction.

Under section 1 of the Protection of Animals(Amendment) Act 1954, as amended by the1988 Act, the court has the power to disqualifya person convicted under these Acts fromhaving custody of any animal. The ban canspecify a particular kind of animal or allanimals for such period as the court thinks fit.Where such a ban is imposed, the court cansuspend the disqualification for such period asit thinks necessary to allow the person time toenable him to make suitable arrangements forthe custody of any animals to which thedisqualification relates.

This Code applies in Scotland only and hasbeen issued by the Scottish Ministers(following approval in draft by the ScottishParliament). It replaces (also as regardsScotland only) that part of the existingDomestic Fowls Code (issued in 1987),relating to the welfare of meat chickens andbreeding chickens.

Similar Codes are being produced in England,Wales and Northern Ireland. Until these newCodes are issued, the existing provisions in theDomestic Fowls Code will continue to apply inEngland and Wales. Separate arrangementsexist in Northern Ireland.

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code of recommendations for the welfare of meat chickens and breeding chickens

Code for the welfare of meat chickensand breeding chickens

1 This Code (which applies in Scotlandonly) applies to all parts of the meatchicken production sector, includingbreeding birds and grandparent stock. Forthe purposes of the code “flock-keeper”means the owner of the birds or the personresponsible for looking after them. Therecommendations are relevant to meatchickens and breeding chickens under alltypes of husbandry system. Followingthem will help to ensure that the welfare ofthe birds is safeguarded.

2 No person should operate or set up a meatchicken or breeding chicken unit unlessthe welfare of all the birds can besafeguarded. This can be achieved byensuring that the building and equipment,and the skills and ability of the flock-keeper, are appropriate to the husbandrysystem and the number of birds to be kept.

3 The relevant animal welfare legislationapplies to owners as well as any personlooking after the chickens on their behalf,wherever the chickens are located. Awritten contract can be of value inensuring that all parties are clear abouttheir responsibilities in respect of welfare.However, the obligations imposed by thelaw will still apply.

4 The strain of bird selected must be suitablefor the production system. In particular,care must be taken in the production ofchicken with extended growing periods(e.g. organic, free range) to use suitablestrains and feeding regimes.

4 introduction

Schedule 1, paragraph 1 of the Welfare ofFarmed Animals (Scotland) Regulations2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442), as amended,states that:

– Animals must be cared for by asufficient number of staff who possess theappropriate ability, knowledge andprofessional competence.

5 It is essential that sufficient, well-motivated and competent personnel beemployed to carry out all necessary tasks.Staff should be well managed andsupervised, fully conversant with the tasksthey will be required to undertake andcompetent in the use of any equipment.

6 All flock-keepers should havedemonstrated full understanding of thewelfare needs and basic biology of thebirds and have shown that they are capableof safeguarding them under all foreseeableconditions before being givenresponsibility for a flock. A good flock-keeper will have a compassionate andhumane attitude, will be able to anticipateand avoid many potential welfareproblems, and have an ability to identifythose that do occur and respond to thempromptly.

7 Staff, including those employed bycontractors, should be given appropriatetraining. This requires the acquisition ofspecific stockmanship skills, which maybe developed on-farm, working with anexperienced person, or by following acourse offered by a suitable trainingprovider. Flock-keepers shoulddemonstrate competence andunderstanding before they are givenresponsibility for the birds. Training

should continue throughout the durationof employment, and suitable refreshercourses should be undertaken regularly.Wherever possible, the training should beof a type that leads to formal recognitionof competence.

8 A training plan should be implemented toensure that those working with meatchickens or breeding chickens recognisenot only normal behaviour and goodhealth but also signs of illness or disease orimpending health problems. If specialisedtasks are to be performed, for examplevaccination or humane culling, thenspecific training should be given.Alternatively, the services of a competentcontractor using trained staff should beobtained.

9 Staff should establish a methodical routinein completing the range of tasks involvedin keeping chickens. As part of this theyshould be particularly vigilant in checkingthat systems are operating properly andbirds are behaving normally. This willenable flock-keepers to detect problems intheir earliest stages and acquire a goodunderstanding of the action to be taken ifa problem is noticed. If the cause is notobvious, or if the flock-keeper's action isnot effective, immediate veterinary ortechnical advice should be obtained.

10 It is essential to ensure that enough time isavailable within the flock-keeper's dailywork routine for the birds to be properlyinspected and for any remedial action tobe taken. Large flocks can be managedsuccessfully but in general the larger thesize of unit, the greater the degree of skilland dedication needed to safeguard thewelfare of the birds.

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code of recommendations for the welfare of meat chickens and breeding chickens

Schedule 1, paragraphs 22-27 of theWelfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)Regulations 2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442), asamended, states that:

– Animals must be fed a wholesome dietwhich is appropriate to their age andspecies and which is fed to them insufficient quantity to maintain them ingood health, to satisfy their nutritionalneeds and to promote a positive state of well-being.

– Animals must not be provided withfood or liquid in a manner, nor must suchfood or liquid contain any substance,which may cause them unnecessarysuffering or injury.

– All animals must have access to feed atintervals appropriate to their physiologicalneeds (and, in any case at least once a day)except where a veterinary surgeon actingin the exercise of his profession otherwisedirects.

– All animals must either have access to asuitable water supply and be providedwith an adequate supply of fresh drinkingwater each day or be able to satisfy theirfluid intake needs by other means.

– Feeding and watering equipment mustbe designed, constructed, placed andmaintained so that contamination of foodand water and the harmful effects ofcompetition between animals areminimised.

– Only substances given for therapeuticor prophylactic purposes or for thepurpose of zootechnical treatment may beadministered to animals unless it has beendemonstrated by scientific studies ofanimal welfare or established experiencethat the effect of that substance is notdetrimental to the health or welfare of theanimals.

11 All birds should have daily access to feed.When introducing birds to a newenvironment, the flock-keeper shouldensure that the birds can find feed andwater.

12 To prevent birds having access to stale orcontaminated feed or water these shouldbe replaced on a regular basis. Provisionmust be made for supplying water infreezing conditions.

13 In intensively housed systems, themaximum distance which any bird shouldhave to travel in a house to reach feed andwater should not be more than 4 metres.However, in some situations, such as someoutdoor production systems, it may benecessary for the birds to travel more than4 metres; in these situations, all birds mustbe adequately cared for in terms ofstocking density, feeding and drinkingspace to allow for such movements.

14 Sudden changes in the type and quantityof feed should be avoided. Any changes indiet should be introduced gradually.

15 Compounded feeds which have beenprepared for other species should beavoided as certain substances can be toxicto birds.

16 For meat chickens, feed should not bewithheld for more than 12 hours beforethe birds are slaughtered or delivered to anew farm. This period of 12 hours must bean inclusive period to include thecatching, loading, transport, lairaging andunloading time prior to slaughter. Prior totransport, water should be provided up tothe start of the loading procedure (seeparagraph 86 for specific provisions forbreeding chickens).

6 feed and water

17 Water meters should be fitted to eachhouse to enable daily monitoring of waterusage. Daily records of water consumptionprovide an early warning of potentialproblems and a water meter is a necessarymanagement tool.

18 Daily access to water throughout theperiod of lighting and a sufficient numberof drinkers, well distributed and correctlyadjusted, should be provided.

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code of recommendations for the welfare of meat chickens and breeding chickens

inspectionSchedule 1, paragraph 2 of the Welfare ofFarmed Animals (Scotland) Regulations2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442), as amended,requires that:

– All animals kept in husbandry systemsin which their welfare depends onfrequent human attention must bethoroughly inspected at least once a day tocheck that they are in a state of well-beingand:

– Animals kept in systems other thanhusbandry systems in which their welfaredepends on frequent human attentionmust be inspected at intervals sufficient toavoid any suffering.

Schedule 1, paragraph 3 states that:

Where animals are kept in a building,adequate lighting (whether fixed orportable) must be available to enable themto be thoroughly inspected at any time.

19 In order to reduce the risk of welfareproblems developing on meat chicken orbreeding chicken units, it is recommendedthat a systematic inspection of all flocksshould be undertaken at least twice eachday at appropriate intervals. Young birds,in the first few days of life, should beinspected more frequently.

20 These health and welfare inspections maybe linked with other visits to the poultryhouses but each inspection should beundertaken as a separate, specificprocedure.

21 Flock-keepers should establish in advancethe best course of action to take shouldproblems be identified and ensure thatveterinary or other expert advice isavailable when needed.

22 Light levels during inspection should besufficiently high to ensure that all birds inall parts of the house are clearly visible.

23 While it may not be possible to examineeach bird individually during routineinspection a good indication of flockhealth should be gained on each occasion.Where birds are not being fed on ad libdiets, inspection is particularly effective atfeeding time when any birds, which arenot fit, will be slow to feed and can beidentified.

24 In order to ensure a thorough inspectionthe flock-keeper should walk within 3metres of every bird and encourage it tomove, taking care not to frighten the birdswith sudden, unaccustomed movement,noise or changes in light levels. The aimshould be to pass close enough to the birdsto see them clearly and for them to bedisturbed and so move away. This shouldenable the identification of any individualthat is sick, injured or weak. Any suchbirds should, immediately, be removed to ahospital pen and treated, or humanelykilled. Birds with considerable difficulty inwalking, severe ascites, malformations,severe wounds or seizures should beculled immediately unless they can betreated and are likely to recover withoutunnecessary suffering. Dead birds shouldbe removed without delay.

It is a general offence under the Welfare ofAnimals (Slaughter or Killing) Regulations1995 (S.I. 1995 No. 731) as amended bythe Welfare of Animals (Slaughter orKilling) (Amendment) Regulations 1999(S.I. 1999 No. 400) and the Welfare ofAnimals (Slaughter or Killing) (Scotland)(Amendment) Regulations 2000 (S.S.I.2001 No. 145) to cause or permit anyavoidable excitement, pain or suffering toany animal (bird) during the slaughter orkilling process (Regulation 4(1)). The

8 health

general offence applies in all cases, but thedetailed provisions in respect of themethod of slaughter or killing do notapply when an animal (bird) has to bekilled immediately for emergency reasons(Regulation 13(2)).

When an animal (bird) is routinelyslaughtered or killed on farm, this must bedone using a permitted method. Thepermitted methods of killing poultryinclude decapitation and neck dislocation.

disease controlSchedule 1, paragraph 5 of the Welfare ofFarmed Animals (Scotland) Regulations2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442), as amended,states that any animals which appear to beill or injured:

– must be cared for appropriately withoutdelay; and

– where they do not respond to such care,veterinary advice must be obtained as soonas possible.

Schedule 1, paragraph 6 states:

– Where necessary, sick or injuredanimals must be isolated in suitableaccommodation with, where appropriate,dry comfortable bedding.

25 A health and welfare programme shouldbe implemented for each unit which setsout health and husbandry activitiescovering the whole of the productioncycle. It should also establish managementprocedures and control measures toreduce the risk of infections and injury.This will normally include an effectivevaccination protocol (which should becarefully monitored to ensure efficacy) to

reduce the risk of disease outbreaks. Thehealth and welfare programme should bedeveloped with appropriate veterinaryadvice and reviewed against performanceand updated accordingly.

26 Important indications of good health areclear, bright eyes, alertness, good posture,vigorous movements if unduly disturbed,active feeding and drinking, singing andvocalisation, satisfactory egg productionin the case of breeding chickens, and cleanand healthy skin, shanks and feet. Anydeparture from the norm may indicate aproblem which should be given immediateattention.

27 A disease challenge may be first noticed bya change in water consumption or areluctance to eat, changes in litter qualityor in general behaviour of the flock. It is,therefore, good management practice tokeep daily records of water consumptionand where possible, feed intake. Veterinaryattention should be sought at an earlystage in any outbreak of disease so that thecause can be determined and appropriateaction taken.

28 Measures to control diseases caused byexternal parasites should be taken byusing the appropriate parasiticides. It isparticularly important to take measures toprevent the establishment of red miteinfestation in breeding chicken flocks;these measures must not cause harm to thebirds.

29 Should the flock-keeper decide that thereis a good chance of a sick bird recovering,it should be isolated in a hospital pen,providing it is able to eat, drink and standunassisted. Birds should be examinedfrequently throughout the day. However, ifa bird is suffering and cannot be treated orif it fails to show significant improvementwithin 24 hours of being placed in the

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code of recommendations for the welfare of meat chickens and breeding chickens

hospital pen it should be humanely killedwithout delay.

30 All those in contact with birds shouldpractise strict hygiene and disinfectionprocedures. Where possible the siteshould be managed so that all houses areempty simultaneously to facilitate effectivecleaning, disinfection and disinfestation.An “all in – all out” approach with periodswhen there are no birds on site will alsoact to provide a disease break.

31 When houses are emptied and cleaned, oldlitter should be removed from the sitebefore re-stocking so as to reduce the riskof the carry over of disease.

leg health32 Flock-keepers should monitor all birds for

signs of lameness, leg weakness orabnormal gait on a daily basis. Any bird,which is unable to move about freely andfind feed and water, must be humanelykilled as soon as it is detected unless it canbe treated and is likely to recover withoutunnecessary suffering.

33 Management measures should be taken toprevent lameness, having regard toprevious experience on the farm andrecognised best practice. The strain andsource of chicks, stocking density, lightingpatterns, feed composition and feedingroutine and litter management should allbe considered. Lameness is often causedby a bone or joint infection so effectiveprevention and control of viral andbacterial disease is essential. If a lamenessproblem develops, management andhusbandry practices must immediately be

altered as appropriate in order to rectifythe problem. Encouraging activity willhelp prevent the occurrence of legproblems.

34 Chickens can suffer from lameness due toinfections acquired in the parent flock orhatchery. It is believed that 60% oflameness cases result from infectiouscauses. High standards of biosecurity andhygiene in the handling of the eggs, at thehatchery and in subsequent handling andtransport of the chicks should bemaintained. Husbandry measures shouldbe designed to minimise floor eggs andheavily soiled eggs should not be set ashatching eggs.

10

generalThe Welfare of Livestock (ProhibitedOperations) Regulations 1982 (S.I. 1982No.1884) state that the following areprohibited operations:

– devoicing of cockerels

– castration of male birds by a methodinvolving surgery

– any operation on a bird with the objectof impeding is flight, other than featherclipping

– fitting of any appliance which has theobject or effect of limiting vision to a birdby a method involving the penetration orother mutilation of the nasal septum

De-winging, pinioning, notching ortendon cutting are prohibited under theabove Regulations, as they involve themutilation of wing tissue. When it isnecessary to reduce the effect offlightiness, the flight feathers of one wingmay be clipped.

The use of blinkers which pierce the nasalseptum is prohibited. Other forms ofdevice fitted to birds’ heads (such asspectacles, contact lenses and nasal bits)may also cause welfare problems andshould not be used.

35 Mutilations can cause considerable painand therefore constitute a major welfareinsult to farm animals. They areundesirable in principle and should onlybe carried out where it is necessary toavoid a worse welfare problem. Producersshould consider carefully the necessity ofperforming any mutilation. Wheredeemed necessary mutilations should becarried out humanely, in accordance withthe law and by trained, competent staff.High standards of hygiene are essential.

beak trimmingWhen not carried out by a veterinarysurgeon beak-trimming must be carriedout in accordance with the VeterinarySurgery (Exemptions) Order 1962 (S.I.1962 No. 2557) i.e. The operation of beak-trimming (sometimes known asdebeaking) means the removal from a birdby means of a suitable instrument of

(i) not more than a one-third part of itsbeak, measured from the tip towards theentrance of the nostrils, if carried out as asingle operation; or

(ii)not more than a one-third part of itsupper beak only, measured in the sameway;

and the arrest of any subsequenthaemorrhage from the beak bycauterisation.

36 Beak trimming of birds reared for meatshould not be necessary because they arenormally slaughtered before reachingsexual maturity. Beak trimming of broilerbreeders should be avoided, if at allpossible, and used only if veterinaryadvice is that the procedure is essential toprevent worse welfare problems ofinjurious feather pecking and cannibalism.Consideration should be given toenvironmental enrichment as a means ofavoiding the necessity to beak trim;possible methods of environmentalenrichment include the provision of strawbales or brassicas or scattering of wholegrain.

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code of recommendations for the welfare of meat chickens and breeding chickens

37 It is unnecessary to beak trim femalebreeding chicks and only the tip of thebeak should be removed from malebreeding chicks. This is best done at 5 to10 days of age in order to allow the chicksto establish eating and pecking behavioursbefore the operation takes place. Beaktrimming of older birds should only becarried out when advised by a veterinarysurgeon.

dubbingThe Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966(Schedule 3 Amendment) Order 1988 (S.I.1988 No 526) permits only a veterinarysurgeon to remove the combs or to cut thetoes of a domestic fowl which has reachedthe age of 72 hours. On birds younger than72 hours the operations may be carriedout by unqualified persons (those over18 years of age) using a suitableinstrument. The removal of the dependentportion of a bird's wattles may also beremoved by unqualified persons, using asuitable instrument.

38 The removal of all, or part, of the malecomb is known as dubbing. Removal ofthe comb offers few, if any, welfareadvantages in comparison with thedisturbance and pain likely to be causedand should be avoided. Where theoperation occurs, it is usually performedwhen the chicks are one day old usingsharp scissors and should only beundertaken by appropriately trainedpersonnel. Once chicks are over 72 hoursold, the procedure must only be carriedout by a veterinary surgeon: this is arequirement of law.

despurring39 This is the removal, at day-old, of the spur

bud on the back of the male's leg using aheated wire. If the spur grows to be verypronounced it may cause damage tofemales during mating. Selection ofbreeding male stock with the genotype ofshort, blunt spurs should be encouraged,so that routine despurring should not benecessary.

declawing40 Some parts of the industry remove the dew

and pivot claw from the feet of breedingmales to prevent damage to females duringnatural mating. The procedure is usuallycarried out at day-old and must be carriedout by a trained, competent person. It ismore common to remove only thedewclaws as these cause significantly moredamage than the pivot claws. The removalof the pivot claw has little justification inwelfare terms and should be avoided.

toe removal41 This mutilation is controlled by law (see

box following paragraph 37). Toe removal(cutting) for purposes of identification isan unnecessary mutilation and should beavoided. Instead alternative methods ofidentification should be used that do notadversely affect the chicks' welfare.

12

Schedule 1, paragraphs 11 and 12 of theWelfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)Regulations 2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442), asamended, state that:

– Materials used for the construction ofaccommodation, and, in particular for theconstruction of pens, cages, stalls andequipment with which the animals maycome into contact, must not be harmful tothem and must be capable of beingthoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

– Accommodation and fittings forsecuring animals must be constructed andmaintained so that there are no sharpedges or protrusions likely to cause injuryto them.

general42 Advice on welfare aspects should be

sought before any new buildings areconstructed or existing buildingsmodified. It is important to ensure that thedesign of housing and equipment issuitable for the intended use. Theincorporation of facilities for raisingdrinkers and feeders to aid access forhandling equipment should be considered.Consideration should also be given to theincorporation of weighing, handling andloading facilities.

43 Flock-keepers should take measures toprotect birds from predators, rodents andother animals. Further advice on thecontrol of vermin can be found in DEFRACode of Practice for the Prevention ofRodent Infestations in Poultry Flocks –

see Appendix 1.

ventilation andtemperatureSchedule 1, paragraph 13 of the Welfare ofFarmed Animals (Scotland) Regulations2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442), as amended,states that:

– Air circulation, dust levels,temperature, relative air humidity and gasconcentrations must be kept within limitswhich are not harmful to the animals.

44 Ventilation rates and house conditionsshould at all times be adequate to providesufficient fresh air for the birds and keepthe litter dry and friable. Air quality,including dust level and concentrations ofcarbon dioxide, carbon monoxide andammonia, should be controlled and keptwithin limits where the welfare of thebirds is not negatively affected. Inparticular, the concentration of ammoniashould not exceed 20ppm of air measuredat bird height level.

45 Extremes of temperature should beavoided. Maximum and minimumtemperatures should be monitored andrecorded daily to assist management. Birdsshould be protected from cold draughts.Efforts should be made to ensure that theventilation systems do not result in largedifferences in air speed across the house.

46 Chicks should be placed in the broodingarea when they arrive in the house andtheir behaviour monitored carefully.Young chicks are particularly susceptibleto extremes of temperature and an evendistribution of the chicks in the house willindicate that they are comfortable. After 4-5 weeks birds can tolerate a fairly widerange of temperatures but every effortshould be made to avoid creatingconditions which will lead to chilling,huddling and subsequent smothering.

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code of recommendations for the welfare of meat chickens and breeding chickens

47 Birds on restricted feed are moresusceptible to low temperatures but less soto high temperatures. If the temperature isallowed to fall there may be a need toincrease feed or provide heaters.

heat stress48 Birds should not be exposed to strong,

direct sunlight or hot, humid conditionslong enough to cause heat stress asindicated by prolonged panting. Housingaffects the birds' ability to maintain theirnormal body temperature but under anymanagement system ambient temperatureshigh enough to cause prolonged pantingmay occur, particularly when humidity isrelatively high. All accommodation shouldtherefore be designed so that itsventilation is adequate to protect the birdsfrom overheating under any weatherconditions that can reasonably beforeseen. Attention should be paid to airthroughput and distribution, especially atbird level.

49 Flock-keepers should plan ahead to avoidheat stress. During the summer monthsconsideration should be given to reducingstocking density at the time of ordering orplacing day-old chicks. If suffering ormortality occurs, the onus will be on theperson responsible for the birds todemonstrate that the measures taken wereappropriate for the design of the building,its locality and the predictable maximumtemperature/humidity at the time.

50 During hot and humid conditions, thebirds should be checked frequently, butnot disturbed unduly.

51 Steps should be taken to minimise thepotential for heat stress by increasingventilation and air speed at bird level.Portable back-up fans should be available.

The air temperature within a building maybe reduced by improved insulation, hosingthe roof and the correct use of evaporativecooling of incoming air. The heat outputof the birds may be reduced by loweringstocking density or changing the feedingpatterns. Advice about managementmeasures to prevent heat stress is given ina DEFRA booklet “Heat Stress in Poultry”-see Appendix 1.

lightingSchedule 1, paragraphs 14-16 of theWelfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)Regulations 2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442), asamended, states that:

– Animals kept in buildings must not bekept in permanent darkness.

– Where the natural light available in abuilding is insufficient to meet thephysiological and ethological needs of anyanimals being kept in it then appropriateartificial lighting must be provided.

– Animals kept in buildings must not bekept without an appropriate period of restfrom artificial lighting.

52 Chickens should be housed at light levelsallowing them to see clearly and whichstimulate activity. This should be providedby lighting systems designed, maintainedand operated to give a minimum light levelof 10 lux at bird eye height. Illuminationof the house to at least 20 lux will furtherencourage activity. Houses should have auniform level of light. If a behaviouralproblem such as cannibalism occurs, itmay be necessary to dim the lights for afew days.

53 Meat chickens, which do not have accessto daylight, should be given at least 8hours of artificial lighting each day. It is

14

important for bird welfare to provide themwith a period of darkness (not less than 30minutes) in each 24-hour cycle. Thisensures the birds become used to totaldarkness and helps to prevent panic in theevent of a power failure. Longer periods ofdarkness can reduce mortality andimprove leg health.

litterSchedule 3 of the Welfare of FarmedAnimals (Scotland) AmendmentRegulations 2002 (S.S.I. 2002 No.334)states that:

– Where any poultry (other than thosekept in the systems referred to inSchedules 3A, 3B and 3C) are kept in abuilding, they must be kept on, or haveaccess at all times to, well maintained litteror to a well-drained area for resting.

54 Meat chickens and breeding chickensspend their lives in contact with litter andtheir health and welfare are linked to itsquality. Conditions such aspododermatitis, hock burn, foot padlesions and breast blisters areconsequences of poor litter quality. Well-designed equipment and high standards ofmanagement are important if good litterquality is to be maintained. Theventilation capacity should be sufficient toavoid overheating and to remove excessmoisture. The feed composition should bewell balanced to avoid problems with wetor sticky droppings.

55 Litter should be kept loose and friable andmeasures should be taken to minimise therisk of mould and mite infestation. Itshould be inspected frequently for signs ofdeterioration and appropriate actionshould be taken to rectify any problem.Mouldy litter should not be used. Litter

should also be inspected to ensure it doesnot become excessively wet or dry. A watersystem which minimises water spillageshould be used, such as water nipples withdrip cups positioned at an appropriateheight for all birds. Nipple drinkerswithout cups may be used if they are wellmanaged and the water pressure ischecked frequently. Advice on littermanagement is given in a DEFRA booklet– “ Poultry Litter Management” – seeAppendix 1 – and flock-keepers shouldfamiliarise themselves with this advice.

emergencyprocedures

56 Farmers should make advance plans fordealing with emergencies such as fire,flood, power or equipment failure ordisruption of supplies, and should ensurethat all staff are familiar with theappropriate emergency action. At least oneresponsible member of the staff shouldalways be available to take the necessarysteps. Fire precautions should be a majorpriority for all flock- keepers. Wherebuildings need to be locked, arrangementsmust be made to allow rapid entry in caseof emergency.

57 Flock-keepers should have access to andbe familiar with the content of the DEFRAbooklet “Farm Fires” – see Appendix 1.Expert advice on all fire precautions canbe obtained from fire prevention officers oflocal fire brigades and from the FirePrevention Association.

58 Contingency arrangements should bemade to ensure that adequate supplies ofwater and suitable feed can be madeavailable in emergencies. Efforts should bemade to minimise the risk of drinkingwater freezing.

15

code of recommendations for the welfare of meat chickens and breeding chickens

Schedule 1, paragraph 9 of the Welfare ofFarmed Animals (Scotland) Regulations2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442), as amended,states that:

– The freedom of movement of animals,having regard to their species and inaccordance with established experienceand scientific knowledge, must not berestricted in such a way as to cause themunnecessary suffering or injury;

Schedule 1, paragraph 10 states that:

– Where animals are continuously orregularly confined, they must be given thespace appropriate to their physiologicaland ethological needs in accordance withestablished experience and scientificknowledge.

59 The maximum stocking density forchickens kept to produce meat for thetable should be 34 kg/m2, which shouldnot be exceeded at any time during thegrowing period. This stocking density issatisfactory for chickens reared to theusual slaughter weights (1.8 – 3.0 kg) butit should be reduced for birds being rearedto significantly lower slaughter weights.

60 However, a variety of factors need to betaken into account when setting andmonitoring stocking densities in chickenhouses at levels which promote goodwelfare. The observance of any particularstocking density is important but cannot,by itself, ensure the welfare of the birds.There is a close relationship betweenstockmanship, environmental control andstocking density. Birds will be maintainedin good condition only if the balance isright and the onus is on the producer todemonstrate that welfare is notcompromised whatever the stockingdensity.

61 Irrespective of the type of system, allchickens should have sufficient freedom ofmovement to be able, without difficulty, tostand normally, turn around and stretchtheir wings. They should also havesufficient space to be able to sit withoutinterference from other birds.

62 Stocking density should be reduced andspecialist advice taken if problems occur,in particular excessive heat or humiditydue to inadequate ventilation and poorlitter quality. If disease, or environmentalproblems, arise in a particular building orsystem, reducing the stocking density insubsequent flocks may lessen thelikelihood of recurrence.

63 A notice indicating the internal floor areaavailable to the birds should be clearly andpermanently displayed at the entrance ofeach house. This, along with otherrecorded information (see record keeping,paragraph 73), will facilitate calculation ofthe stocking density.

64 Deliberately placing a high number ofchicks and routinely “thinning” should beavoided as this causes unnecessary distressto the birds and may result in stockingdensities that are too high.

16 stocking density–freedom of movement

Schedule 1, paragraph 18 of the Welfare ofFarmed Animals (Scotland) Regulations2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442), as amended,states that:

– All automated or mechanicalequipment essential for the health andwell-being of the animals must beinspected at least once a day to check thatthere is no defect in it.

Schedule 1, paragraph 19 states that:

– Where any defect in automated ormechanical equipment of the typespecified in paragraph 18 is discovered, itmust be rectified immediately, or if that isimpossible, appropriate steps must betaken to safeguard the health and well-being of the animals pending therectification of such defects including theuse of alternative methods of feeding andwatering and methods of providing andmaintaining a satisfactory environment.

Schedule 1, paragraph 20 states that:

– Where the health and well-being ofanimals is dependent on an artificialventilation system

(a) provision must be made for anappropriate back-up system to guaranteesufficient air renewal to preserve thehealth and well-being of the animals in theevent of failure of the system; and

(b) an alarm system must be provided to givewarning of any failure of the system,(which alarm will operate even if theprincipal electricity supply to it hasfailed).

Schedule 1, paragraph 21 states that:

– The back-up system referred to inparagraph 20(a) must be thoroughlyinspected and the alarm system referred to

in paragraph 20(b) tested, in each case notless than once every seven days in order tocheck that there is no defect in it, and, ifany defect is found in such system oralarm (whether or not on it beinginspected or tested in accordance with thisparagraph) it must be rectified forthwith.

65 All equipment and services, including feedhoppers, feed chain and delivery systems,drinkers, ventilating fans, heating andlighting units, fire extinguishers and alarmsystems, should be cleaned and inspectedregularly and kept in good working order.

66 Ventilation, heating, lighting, feeding,watering and all other equipment orelectrical installation should be designed,sited and installed so as to avoid risk ofinjuring the birds.

67 All equipment should be constructed andmaintained in such a way as to avoidsubjecting the birds to excessive noise.

68 All automated equipment, upon which thebirds' welfare is dependent, mustincorporate a fail-safe device and/orstandby device and an alarm system towarn the flock-keeper of failure. Defectsshould be rectified immediately or othermeasures taken to safeguard the healthand welfare of the birds. Alternative waysof feeding and of maintaining asatisfactory environment should thereforebe ready for use.

17automatic or mechanical equipment

code of recommendations for the welfare of meat chickens and breeding chickens

Schedule 1, paragraph 17 of the Welfare ofFarmed Animals (Scotland) Regulations2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442), as amended,states that:

– Animals not kept in buildings must,where necessary and possible, be givenprotection from adverse weatherconditions, predators and risks to theirhealth and, at all times, have access to awell drained lying area.

You should also refer to EU MarketingStandards for Poultrymeat, CommissionRegulation (EEC) No. 1538/91 (asamended), regarding stocking densities,feed requirements, access to the range andminimum age at slaughter.

69 Land on which range birds are kept forprolonged periods may become 'fowl sick',i.e. contaminated with organisms whichcause or carry disease to an extent whichcould seriously prejudice the health of thebirds on the land. Land should befrequently monitored for worm burden.The time taken for land to become fowlsick depends on the type of land andstocking density. Appropriate measuresshould be taken to prevent fowl sicknessor to provide a new ranging area bymoving the housing (in the case ofportable units) or to rotating the rangingarea outside fixed buildings.

70 Sufficient housing should be available tothe birds at all times and it may benecessary to exclude birds from the rangein bad weather if there is a clear dangerthat their welfare will be compromised.

71 Birds should be encouraged to use theoutdoor area by provision of adequatesuitable, properly managed vegetation, afresh supply of water and overhead cover,all sufficiently far from the house toencourage the birds to range.

72 Factors such as soil type, drainage and sizeof colony and frequency of flock rotationare very important in deciding the numberof birds that a particular area can carry.Heavy, poorly drained soil can carry fewerbirds than land which is light and welldrained.

18 additional requirements for free range birds

Schedule 1, paragraph 7 of the Welfare ofFarmed Animals (Scotland) Regulations2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442), as amended,states that a record must be maintained of:

– Any medicinal treatment given toanimals; and

– The number of mortalities found oneach inspection of animals.

Schedule 1, paragraph 8 states that therecord referred to in paragraph 7 must beretained for a period of at least three yearsfrom the date on which the medicinaltreatment was given, or the date of theinspection, as the case may be, and mustbe made available to an authorised personwhen carrying out an inspection or whenotherwise requested by such person.

73 Records are an essential aid tomanagement and those kept shouldinclude:

– The number and sex of chicks placed.

– Daily mortality and the number andaverage weight of birds removed for slaughter or when thinning the flock toreduce stocking density.

– Number of culls with reason for cull tobe recorded (leg culls to be specificallyidentified).

– Where possible, feed consumed (dailyand cumulative).

– Body weight in relation to expectedgrowth rates.

– The internal floor area of the house.

– Daily water consumption (water metersshould be fitted in each house).

– Testing and maintenance of automaticequipment, including alarms, fail safes,fire extinguishers and stand-by generators.

– Daily maximum and minimumtemperature.

– The lighting regime – intensity andduration.

– Dates of cleaning/disinfection andbacterial counts between placements.

– Veterinary consultation, date andoutcome.

– Medicine and vaccine administrationrecords.

74 Additionally, for the purposes ofsalmonella control, the breeding sectormust keep certain records under thePoultry Breeding Flocks and HatcheriesOrder 1993. Full details of the records tobe kept can be found in the DEFRAbooklet – “A Guide to the PoultryBreeding Flocks and Hatcheries Order1993”. These records will complimentthose detailed above and aid flockmanagement.

19record keeping

code of recommendations for the welfare of meat chickens and breeding chickens

The Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order1997 (S.I. 1997 No 1480) covers thetransport of all vertebrate animals,including birds. Among otherrequirements;

– Article 4 states that no person shalltransport any animal in a way whichcauses or is likely to cause injury orunnecessary suffering to that animal.

– Article 6 states that no person shalltransport any animal unless:

(a) it is fit for its intended journey, and

(b)suitable provision has been made forits care during the journey and on arrivalat the place of destination.

For these purposes an animal shall not beconsidered fit for its intended journey if itis ill, injured, infirm or fatigued, unless itis only slightly ill, infirm or fatigued andthe intended journey is not likely to causeit unnecessary suffering.

– Article 10(1) requires that any persontransporting animals shall ensure that theanimals are transported without delay totheir place of destination.

– Article 10(2) requires that in the case ofanimals transported in a receptacle, anyperson in charge of the animals shallensure that they are not caused injury orunnecessary suffering while they are in thereceptacle either waiting to be loaded onto the means of transport or after theyhave been unloaded.

– Schedule 3 (Part I) requires that meansof transport and receptacles shall beconstructed, maintained, operated andpositioned to provide adequate ventilationand air space. Receptacles in whichanimals are transported shall beconstructed and maintained so that theyallow for appropriate inspection and care

of the animals. Receptacles in whichanimals are carried shall be of such a sizeas to protect the animals from injury orunnecessary suffering during transport.Receptacles in which birds are transportedshall be constructed and maintained sothat they prevent any protrusion of theheads, legs or wings from them.

75 The catching and handling of birdswithout causing them injury or stressrequires skill. It should only beundertaken by competent persons, i.e.those who have been appropriately trainedto the task. Responsibility for themanagement of the operation should beclearly allocated.

76 High standards must be appliedirrespective of the potential economicvalue of the birds. Surplus birds or birds atthe end of lay awaiting disposal should betreated as humanely as those intended forretention or sale.

77 Panic among the birds and subsequentinjury should be avoided. Catching shouldtake place in low or blue light to minimisefear responses. Catching and handlingshould be carried out quietly andconfidently exercising care to avoidunnecessary struggling which could bruiseor otherwise injure the birds.

78 Unless they are caught and carried aroundthe body (using both hands to hold thewings against the body), birds should becaught and carried by the legs. No catchershould carry by the legs more than threechickens (or two adult breeding birds) ineach hand. Birds must not be carried bythe wings or by the neck.

79 One possible way of avoiding the potentialfor damage to the birds is to collect thebirds mechanically; only devices proven tobe humane should be considered for use ingathering birds.

20 catching, handling and transport

80 The distance birds have to be carriedshould be minimised by taking the cratesand containers into the house. Density inthe crates should be adjusted according toweather conditions and size of bird. It isimportant to ensure that once birds areloaded in the container they are notexposed to extremes of temperature.

81 Crates or containers should be suitable forthe purpose of transporting birds andallow them to be put in, conveyed andtaken out without injury. They should inparticular be protected from rain and roadspray, which greatly increases the effect ofwind chill, although effective ventilationmust be maintained.

82 Journeys should be carefully planned sothat birds are not left on the vehicle forlong periods either at the start of thejourney or at their destination. Theprovision of adequate ventilation andprotection from adverse weather andextremes of temperature are essentialduring loading and transport.

83 Measures should be taken to ensureefficient removal of excess heat and watervapour. It is important to make use of thenatural airflow patterns around a movingvehicle to optimise conditions for thebirds during transport. However, when avehicle is stationary for any length of time,mechanical ventilation may be necessaryto maintain acceptable levels oftemperature and humidity. When this isthe case it is more effective to extract airfrom the vehicle than to blow air into it.

Schedule 3 (Part II) of the Welfare ofAnimals (Slaughter or Killing) Regulations1995 (S.I. 1995 No. 731) as amended bythe Welfare of Animals (Slaughter orKilling) (Amendment) Regulations 1999(S.I. 1999 No. 400) and the Welfare ofAnimals (Slaughter or Killing)Amendment (Scotland) Regulations 2001(S.S.I. 2001 No. 145) requires that animals(including birds) are unloaded as soon aspossible after arrival at a slaughterhouse.After unloading, animals must beprotected from adverse weather conditionsand be provided with adequate ventilation.In addition, if any animal has beensubjected to high temperatures in humidweather, it must be cooled by appropriatemeans.

21

code of recommendations for the welfare of meat chickens and breeding chickens

breeding proceduresSchedule 1, paragraph 28 of the Welfare ofFarmed Animals (Scotland) Regulations

2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442), as amended,requires that:

– (1) Subject to paragraph (2) below,natural or artificial breeding or breedingprocedures which cause, or are likely tocause, suffering or injury to any of theanimals concerned must not be practised.

– (2) Paragraph (1) must not precludethe use of natural or artificial breedingprocedures that are likely to causeminimal or momentary suffering or injuryor that might necessitate interventionswhich would not cause lasting injury.

Schedule 1, paragraph 29 states that:

– No animals can be kept for farmingpurposes unless it can reasonably beexpected, on the basis of their genotype orphenotype, that they can be kept withoutdetrimental effect on their health orwelfare.

feed and water84 Breeding birds have been selected over

several generations for their geneticpotential for large appetites, fast growthand high fertility. Consequently, theirhusbandry requirements demandcommitted and competent stockmanshipand a high standard of housing andequipment. Control of the environment isessential.

85 As in many aspects of husbandry, topromote optimum welfare the amount of

feed offered to breeding chickens is a finebalance between offering too much feed(because birds fed to demand wouldbecome obese, fail to survive through thelaying period and breeding would beseverely impaired) and causing sufferingdue to hunger and starvation. The weightof present evidence is that the overallwelfare of the bird is better if feed isrestricted. However it is particularlyimportant that the effects on theindividual bird are carefully monitored byskilled staff.

86 Feeding equipment should be capable ofdelivering small quantities rapidly,accurately and evenly to all birds in thehouse and the amount of trough spaceallocated should allow access to feed forall birds intended to be fed.

87 In no circumstances should breeding birdsbe induced to moult by withholding feedand water. Withholding feed and/or wateris unlawful (see box followingparagraph 10). Paragraphs 11, 14, and 18of this code apply at all times, includingwhen moulting is induced.

88 Birds should not be fed on the day oftransportation as they travel morecomfortably with an empty crop.Increased feed should be given to breedingbirds on the day before travel and watershould be made available up to the time ofcatching.

89 For breeding birds, it may be necessary tomanage the supply of water in relation tothe feeding system and programme toreduce excessive drinking and to maintainlitter quality. When access to water is timelimited it is vital that there is generousprovision of drinkers with adequate flowto enable all birds to drink, without unduecompetition, when the water supply isturned back on.

22 additional recommendations for breeding chickens

parent breedingchickens

90 During the first 6 weeks of life feed levelsshould be adequate to ensure good skeletaldevelopment. The level of feed intakethroughout rearing should be managed toachieve a steady growth, not less than 7%week-on-week, and the desired weight andcondition at point-of-lay.

91 Feed should be offered to the birds at leastdaily throughout the production cyclewith the exception of the day beforedepopulation, when a more generousallocation should be fed in anticipation offasting the birds before slaughter. Skip aday regimes are not acceptable (they arealso unlawful, see box followingparagraph 10).

92 In addition to routine daily checks, thebody weight and condition of the birdsshould be systematically monitored andrecorded on a weekly basis. Prompt,appropriate adjustments should be madeto feed allocation according to what isfound.

93 As the amount of feed offered to the birdsis so small its nutritional quality must becarefully monitored and controlled. Theflock-keeper must be particularly vigilantafter changes in feed batches.

94 During lay, cockerels and hens havedifferent nutritional requirements andshould be fed differently within the samehouse. The equipment used to preventcockerels taking feed intended for hensshould be carefully adjusted to ensure thataccess for hens is maintained andcockerels are not injured. However, somesystems and stages in the flock requireboth males and females to be fed similar

amounts of feed together and so it may bedesirable to remove cockerel excludersfrom female feeding systems.

elite (pedigree) birds95 Primary breeding companies should

identify the best means of minimising thenumber of elite birds subject to detailedselection performance testing and the ageand weight to which they grow on an adlibitum feed regimen. Once the selectionprocedures are complete, weeklyrecording of weight gain should be used tocheck that the birds follow the correctbody weight profile to ensure good healthand production.

96 Because of the constraints to which theyare subjected, the management of elitebirds during the period of feed restriction(from 8 weeks to point-of-lay) must avoidany other welfare challenge and provideeven feed distribution, effectiveenvironmental control and avoid diseasechallenge.

buildings andaccommodation

97 Breeding birds should be reared in housesin which temperature, humidity,ventilation rates, light levels andphotoperiods are carefully regulated. Awell designed house will incorporateinsulation and heaters, ventilation fansand vents, effective lightproofing, and alighting system providing controllablelight levels with uniform distribution.

98 To enrich the environment, it is goodpractice to offer insoluble grit (spread onthe litter) from about 6 weeks of age. This

23

code of recommendations for the welfare of meat chickens and breeding chickens

will also help the gizzard to break downany litter or feathers which may have beenconsumed and encourage scratching.Foraging behaviour has the addedadvantage of improving litter quality.Suitable perches in the rearing house mayprovide a form of enrichment to aid thebirds in performing another of theirnatural behaviours. Perches will also aidthe birds' adaptation from litter to raised,perforated floors when they move to thelaying house.

99 Recommended minimum light intensitiesand photoperiods for breeding birds are:

– up to 10 days – minimum of 60 lux atday old, reducing to 10 lux and anuninterrupted day length minimum of 8hours by 10 days of age.

– up to point of lay - minimum of 10lux. Uninterrupted day length minimumof 8 hours.

– laying – minimum of 20 lux.Uninterrupted day length increasing from8 hours to a maximum of 18 hours.

All the above should be measured at birdeye height. If aggression occurs, the lightsshould be dimmed for a few days.

After the first few days of life, there shouldbe a set period of at least 6 continuoushours of darkness in any one 24-hourperiod.

stocking density,freedom ofmovement

100 Stocking density for breeding birds shouldnot exceed 25 kg/m2 calculated by dividingthe total weight of all the birds (males andfemales) in the house by total areaavailable to the birds. The calculation ofstocking density should be on the basis ofall stock within the house, includingmales.

catching, handlingand transport

101 When breeding birds are unloaded, careshould be taken when lifting the birds outof a crate or when tipping them out of anopen-topped container. Breeding birdsshould have immediate access to water onarrival, especially where slats are fitted.

24

The permitted methods of killing surpluschicks and embryos in hatchery waste areset down in Schedule 11 of the Welfare ofAnimals (Slaughter or Killing) Regulations1995 (S.I. 1995 No. 731) as amended bythe Welfare of Animals (Slaughter orKilling) (Amendment) Regulations 1999(S.I. 1999 No. 400), the Welfare ofAnimals (Slaughter or Killing)Amendment (Scotland) Regulations 2001 (S.S.I. 2001 No.145) and any subsequentamendments. They are:

For chicks:

– mechanical apparatus producingimmediate death (instantaneousmechanical destruction);

– exposure to gas mixtures (highconcentration of carbon dioxide or argonor specified argon/carbon dioxide mixturecontaining not more than 30% carbondioxide and not less than 60% argon); or

– dislocation of the neck.

For embryos in hatchery waste:

– mechanical apparatus producingimmediate death (instantaneousmechanical destruction).

Chicks should always be killed by a skilledoperator. Birds must be placed in thehighest obtainable concentration ofcarbon dioxide, supplied by a source of100% carbon dioxide. When chicks areexposed to gas mixtures, they must remainin the gas mixture until dead. The capacityof any mechanical apparatus must besufficient to ensure that chicks andembryos are killed immediately.

102 When using carbon dioxide or gasmixtures, the operator should checkthoroughly to ensure that all birds aredead. When using any of the permitted gasmixtures it is essential that the levels ofeach gas are monitored and maintained asany build up in the oxygen content willsignificantly reduce the effectiveness ofthe system and is likely to result in birdstaking longer to die or possibly regainingconsciousness. The rate of delivery ofbirds should be such as to ensure thatbirds are not crushed or suffocated duringexposure to gas mixtures or when passingthrough a mechanical apparatus.

25disposal of surplus chicks and embryos in hatchery waste

code of recommendations for the welfare of meat chickens and breeding chickens

26 appendix – useful publicationsPublications available from DEFRA

PB Number Title

1147 Emergencies on Livestock Farms

9326 Farm Fires – Protecting Farm Animal Welfare

1315 Heat Stress in Poultry: solving the problem

1739 Poultry Litter Management

3476 Welfare of Poultry at Slaughter: A Pocket Guide

3724 Guide to Alleviation of Thermal Stress in Poultry in Lairage

2594 Explanatory Guide to the Welfare of Animals (Slaughter or Killing) Regulations 1995

2531 Summary of the Law Relating to Farm Animal Welfare

2630 Code of practice for the Prevention of Rodent Infestations in Poultry Flocks

1435 A Guide to the Poultry Breeding Flocks and Hatcheries Order 1993

7323 Code of Practice for the Prevention and Control of Salmonella in Broiler Flocks On Farm

CODES OF RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE WELFARE OF LIVESTOCK:

MEAT CHICKENS AND BREEDING CHICKENS

NOTEThis Code is produced in terms of Section 3 of the Agriculture

(Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1968 (1968 c.34).

This Section allows the Scottish Ministers, after consultation, to prepare codes of recommendations for the welfare of livestock.

This Code was laid before Parliament as is required by Section 3 of the above Act.

The power to produce these codes was transferred to the Scottish Ministers by virtue of Section 53 of the Scotland Act 1998 (1998 c.46).

Any reference in this Code to advisory publications is for information only and does not form part of this Code.

27information

code of recommendations for the welfare of meat chickens and breeding chickens

Copies of the above publications can beobtained, free of charge, from:

DEFRA PublicationsAdmail 6000LondonSW1A 2XXTelephone Orders (for free publications) 0845 955 6000Telephone Enquiries: 0845 955 6000Email: [email protected]: http://www.defra.gov.uk

These publications are updated on a regularbasis; for more information on the mostcurrent versions and new literature pleasecontact DEFRA's Animal Welfare Division on020 7904 6513

Copies of the legislation quoted in the Codeare available from The Stationery Office:

TSO Scotland71 Lothian RoadEdinburgh EH3 9AZTelephone orders: 0870 606 5566Email: [email protected]: http://www.tso.com

FURTHER INFORMATIONIf you would like any further information oradvice relating to this code please contact theScottish Executive Rural Affairs Department,Animal Health and Welfare Branch on 0131 244 6117.

codes of recommendations for the welfare of livestock

meat chickens and breeding chickens

Further copies of this publication are available from:The Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Department

Room 350Pentland House47 Robb’s Loan

EdinburghEH14 1TY

tel: 0131 244 6117

Crown Copyright September 2004www.scotland.gov.uk

Astron B37838 11-04 ISBN 0 7559 1175 X