The Response of Two Commercial Laying Hen Strains to Various Cage Densities

Abstract

The effects of housing two commercial laying hen strains (Hisex Brown and Hisex White) under various cage densities were studied in two experiments. In the first experiment. 27, 24 and 30 Hisex Brown hens were allotted to three cage densities of 666. 500 and 400cm2/bird. respectively, for a sixteen-week experimental period. In the second experiment. 27. 24, 30 and 36 Hisex White hens were allotted to four cage densities of 666. 500. 400 and 333 cm2/bird. respectively, for a similar period. Results showed that feed consumption increased significantly (P < 0.01) as the cage density decreased, or as the area/bird increased. Feed efficiency was not significantly affected by cage density in both experiments. The effect of cage density on the hen-day production of Hisex Brown hens, but not Hisex White hens, was significant (P < 0.05). However, hen-housed egg production of both strains was not significantly (P < 0.05) affected by cage density. Mortality was low among all groups of hens during the experimental period. Therefore, it can be concluded that the high cage densities tested were not detrimental to egg production or liveability of the two strains used during their first phase of egg production.