The effect of different housing systems on production and egg quality traits of brown and leghorn type layers

Abstract

Two commercial layer hybrids (Shaver Sic. 288 and Tetra SL) were tested in the same environmentally controlled laying house in five different managemental systems. These five systems were: traditional 4-tier cage system with two density levels: 3 (533 cm2/hen) and 4 (400 cm:/hen) hens per cage, aviary, perchery and floor (slatted floor and deep litter) system. Significant differences were found between strains and between systems of housing for all traits studied. Trails measured up to 72 weeks of age: henhouse-based egg production, egg weight, total egg mass produced, feed consumption, mortality, albumen height, Haugh units, shell thickness and shell density. Regarding the performance of the hens housed 4 per cage as 100% and as standard - being the most frequently used in practice - the following most important differences were found: henhouse-based egg production +16% and +8% 3 hens /cage, - 14% and -10% aviary, - 14% and -18% perchery, +9% and +5% floor for Leghorns and brown egg layers respectively. Feed consumption per day per hen: +29% and 26%j 3 hens/cage, +23% and +17% aviary, +15% and +16% perchery, +28% and +21% floor. Egg weight and egg quality traits were less affected by the housing systems tested.