Phenotypic and genotypic profiles of hens that pile

This project provided information to reduce piling and smothering through short- and long-term strategies, which improved productivity and bird welfare. The project led by University of Melbourne and in partnership with University of Bern and a major breeding company, is part of a larger international project “HenTrack”. The information generated on phenotypic (observable physical characteristics), and genotypic (genetic constitution) profile of birds that are more prone to piling informed breeding selection criteria, and/or environmental interventions. This was then fed back to the Australian egg industry to grow hens that exhibit less piling and smothering behaviour.

Australian Egg Farmers can access researching findings from this project here.