A £500,000 research initiative, supported by Defra, is set to improve poultry welfare by examining various catching and handling methods used in commercial farming across the UK. SRUC leads the three-year study in partnership with the University of Bristol and the Humane Slaughter Association, and involves industry stakeholders and a poultry veterinary consultant.
The project will analyse the impact of different methods used to catch birds during movements between housing systems or preparation for slaughter. It will specifically compare the common techniques of catching birds by their legs versus catching them upright. Researchers aim to determine how these methods affect handling times and the welfare of the poultry.
The study will begin by focusing on broilers, layers, and pullets, with trained crew members involved in both techniques to ensure consistency. Over 100 commercial flocks will be monitored throughout the project.
Results from this research will contribute to setting best practice guidelines for poultry handling and could influence future industry training and protocols, ensuring better welfare practices based on solid evidence.