Profile

Research into basic and applied ethology with emphasis on development of abnormal behaviours in poultry, e.g. cannibalism, feather pecking, and crowding in nest boxes. The abnormal behaviours are described, and the underlying motivation to express these behaviours is investigated. In addition, methods to prevent occurrence of abnormal behaviour in modern production systems are developed, which has so far been concentrated on the effect of different early rearing conditions and environmental enrichment.

Main activities:

• Nest location selection in laying hens , including the problems with crowding in nest boxes.
• Effect of dark brooders and broody hens on development of feather pecking and cannibalism in laying hens.
• Effect of environmental enrichments, designed to promote foraging behaviour, on cannibalism in Muscovy ducklings.