The effect of foraging material and perch height on feather pecking and feather damage in laying hens

Feather pecking in laying hens (Gallus gallus domesticus) may not only cause welfare problems, but also result in economic losses due to feather damage and increased mortality. The present study aimed at testing whether foraging material and perch height have significant effects on feather pecking and feather damage. From week 19 to week 30 after hatching, groups of 14 hens (white `Lohman Selected Leghorn' hybrids) were kept in pens with or...