Influence of nest seclusion and nesting material on pre-laying behaviour of laying hens Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food University of Antwerp Ghent University
Provision of nest sites is beneficial for the welfare of laying hens in intensive production systems. The design of these nest sites has a direct effect on pre-laying behaviour. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of screening off the entrances of the nest boxes with non-transparent flaps and providing nesting or flooring material on pre-laying behaviour. Eighteen individual Hisex brown laying hens and 18 groups of five hens ...