Transgenerational effects of controlled feed allocation and reduced balanced protein diet on the welfare, cognition and behavior of broiler breeders

To reach desirable productivity and low mortality, controlled feeding programs need to be imposed on the broiler breeders. However the controlled feed intake could induce behavioral abnormalities like over drinking, stereotypic behavior, being more aggressive and so on. Low protein diet gets more attention of researchers because of its environmental and economical interest. It has been reported that some internal or external influence to maternal animals can be inherited by their offspring.  This project is meant to see if reduced and balanced protein diet have effect on the welfare and behavior of broiler breeders over generations. Regular behavioral observation and welfare evaluation is followed for several generations.