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Effects of stocking density and group size on the performance of white and brown Hyline layers in semi-arid conditions

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Abstract

The effect of housing two Hyline strains of commercial laying hens White Hyline (W-98) and Brown Hyline (Hyline Brown) at densities of 2, 3 or 4 per cage (1100, 733 or 550 cm2/hen, respectively) was investigated over 3 months. Hyline Brown layers gained more weight, laid more but lighter eggs, utilized feed more efficiently and had a lower mortality than W-98 layers. Housing birds 2 or 3 per cage resulted in greater body weight gain, higher egg production, heavier eggs, better feed conversion ratio and a lower mortality than housing them 4 per cage. There were significant interactions between strain and stocking density for egg production, egg weight, egg output and mortality. It is suggested that for egg production in semi-arid areas Hyline Brown hens could be used and housed at a density of 733 cm2/hen.

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Correspondence to D. Norris.

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Benyi, K., Norris, D. & Tsatsinyane, P.M. Effects of stocking density and group size on the performance of white and brown Hyline layers in semi-arid conditions. Trop Anim Health Prod 38, 619–624 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11250-006-4417-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11250-006-4417-1

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