Cage-free housing systems provide superior welfare over cage systems by providing a rich array of resources such as outside areas and litter for dustbathing that allow animals to express their natural behaviors (Blokhuis et al., 2005). Despite the benefits of cage-free systems regarding animal welfare in most dimensions, many problems exist that unintentionally severely compromise the actual welfare of housed animals. To overcome these challenges, providers of laying hen genetics, academics, and creators of sensor technology must develop novel means to assess phenotypes that are relevant for cage-free conditions. This symposium will review ongoing work in this complicated research theme as well as directions for future efforts.
Early Bird Registration offers a significantly discounted rate for attendees. Be sure to register soon as Early Bird Registration is only available until April 30, 2023. Savings is in USD.
