Understanding poultry behaviour

Abstract

In the context of poultry production, behavioural studies have been particularly useful for optimizing management strategies and understanding the welfare of commercially raised poultry. This chapter aims to provide an overview of the contributions that the study of animal behaviour has made to poultry science, and to provide general guidance on the design, execution and interpretation of behavioural research. We begin with an overview of commonly used research methods and methodological challenges that should be considered before behavioural data is collected. Next, we provide specific examples of how behavioural approaches have been used to explore the importance and consequences (positive and negative) of perch access. We offer some thoughts on current and future trends in applied ethology and conclude with a list of resources on the topics covered here.