When the birds have a longer feeder length available, there is less competition and the plumage is better. Photo: Wageningen Livestock Research
Research shows that hens that are 50% bald take up almost 20% more feed compared to laying hens with intact plumage. The condition of a breeder hen’s plumage is important for her internal thermal regulation. Hens with bad plumage are not well insulated which causes them to take in more feed. This leads to suboptimum feed conversion. Good plumage contributes to better reproduction
Good plumage also contributes to better animal welfare and reproduction. Balder hens have a greater chance of bei
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