The Influence of Sensory Enrichment on Broiler Welfare, Health and Productivity

Project Outline

This research project aims to investigate the influence of sensory enrichment on broiler welfare in commercial poultry production systems. It seeks to understand how sensory experiences, including auditory, visual, tactile, olfactory, and gustatory stimuli, can affect broiler behaviour, stress levels, and overall well-being. By exploring the scientific rationale behind sensory enrichment, this project aims to improve broiler welfare while also addressing the practicality and feasibility of implementing sensory-based enhancements in commercial broiler houses.

Scientific Rationale

1. Limited Research on Sensory Enrichment: To date, there has been limited scientific investigation into the role of sensory enrichment in broiler welfare. While various environmental factors have been studied, the sensory experiences of broilers have received less attention, despite their importance in shaping behaviour and stress responses.
2. Sensory Perception in Broilers: Broiler chickens possess sensory capabilities, including vision, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. Understanding how these senses function in broilers and how they respond to sensory enrichment is crucial for designing effective welfare interventions.
3. Stress Reduction: Scientific evidence suggests that sensory enrichment can play a role in reducing stress in animals. Broilers raised in stressful conditions may exhibit detrimental behaviours and health issues. Sensory enrichment has the potential to mitigate these stressors and improve overall welfare.
4. Behavioural Implications: Sensory experiences can significantly impact broiler behaviour, affecting natural behaviours such as foraging, dust bathing, and social interactions. Investigating these behavioural responses to sensory enrichment can provide insights into the well-being of broilers.
5. Commercial Application: Assessing the practicality and feasibility of implementing sensory enrichment in commercial broiler production is essential. Scientific research can help determine the cost-effectiveness and potential benefits of incorporating sensory enhancements into standard practices.

Research Objectives

1. To determine the effects of auditory enrichment on broiler behaviour and stress responses.
2. To investigate the impact of visual enrichment on broiler welfare and natural behaviours.
3. To assess how tactile enrichment, including different flooring and substrate options, influences broiler well-being.
4. To explore the role of olfactory and gustatory enrichment in reducing stress and enhancing broiler welfare.
5. To examine the combined effects of multisensory enrichment on broiler behaviour and stress levels.
6. To evaluate individual variation in sensory preferences within broiler flocks and its implications for welfare.

Expected Outcomes

This research project aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for implementing sensory enrichment strategies in commercial broiler production. It will contribute to the scientific understanding of how sensory experiences can positively impact broiler welfare, reduce stress, and encourage natural behaviours. Furthermore, the project will assess the feasibility of adopting sensory enrichment practices in real-world poultry production settings.

Significance of the Project

This research project aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for implementing sensory enrichment strategies in commercial broiler production. It will contribute to the scientific understanding of how sensory experiences can positively impact broiler welfare, reduce stress, and encourage natural behaviours. Furthermore, the project will assess the feasibility of adopting sensory enrichment practices in real-world poultry production settings.

Techniques

1. Behavioural Observation: Continuous monitoring and recording of broiler behaviour in response to sensory enrichment stimuli, using video recording and behaviour analysis software.
2. Stress Hormone Analysis: Measurement of stress hormones (e.g., corticosterone) in blood or faecal samples to assess the physiological impact of sensory enrichment.
3. Environmental Enrichment Design: Design and construction of sensory enrichment structures and stimuli, such as auditory systems, visual objects, or tactile substrates.
4. Sensory Perception Testing: Conducting sensory perception experiments to determine how broilers respond to various sensory stimuli, possibly using preference testing or choice experiments.
5. Data Collection and Analysis: Gathering and processing data on broiler behaviour, stress indicators, and sensory preferences using statistical analysis software.
6. Feasibility Assessment: Evaluation of the practicality and cost-effectiveness of implementing sensory enrichment strategies in commercial broiler production.
7. Sensory Measurement: Objective measurement of sensory stimuli, such as sound intensity, visual colour spectrum, or tactile properties, to ensure consistency in enrichment provision.
8. Possibly genetic Analysis: If the project includes a genetic component, techniques such as DNA extraction, genotyping, and genetic marker analysis may be employed.
9. Consumer Perception Surveys: If assessing the market acceptance of broiler meat from enriched environments, conducting surveys and sensory evaluations with consumers to gauge preferences.
10. Economic Modelling: Developing economic models to assess the financial viability and potential benefits of sensory enrichment strategies for the poultry industry.
11. Sample Collection: Collection of biological samples (e.g., blood, tissue) for various analyses related to broiler health and welfare.
12. Statistical Modelling: Employing statistical modelling techniques to analyse data and draw meaningful conclusions about the impact of sensory enrichment.
13. Qualitative Interviews: Conducting qualitative interviews or focus group discussions with poultry industry stakeholders to gather insights on the practicality of implementing sensory enrichment practices.