Behavioural indicators of range use in four broiler strains

Free-range systems provide an outdoor range for broilers to give them the possibility express a higher frequency and wider of behaviours, such as exploration, compared with those raised indoors. Greater variability in use between individuals same flock is often reported. Individual variation may result from differences early-life behaviour or genetic background. Understanding how influences opportunities enhance predict use. Previous studies have shown that could be influenced by animal’s personality traits social motivation, boldness foraging motivation. Therefore, this study investigated several broiler strains, namely Hubbard JA757, S757N, White Bresse dual-purpose strain; we examined latter it represents potential solution ban 1-day-old chick culling. The present also before access, identify assess stability these indicators among four strains. For purpose, recorded 100 male chickens per strain, both barn during individual tests, after access. We which behaviours were time consistent, whether behavioural predicted regardless variation. There was significant (p < 0.001) difference strains including spent resting standing. Range consistent strain our indicator followed high-quality linear regression model (R² > 0.7) 82–99% depending on their strain. Besides, consistency motivation seemed depend Even though showed low (rho = 0.2–0.4) positive correlations three studied there no strong In conclusion, results show link (before access) can modulated bird’s It crucial consider all different factors better understand varies within flocks.