Use of a robot to feed roughage, improving welfare of broilers

Abstract

Different types of silages can be fed to broilers several times per day. Silage contributes nutrients to the diet and occupies the broilers improving welfare and reducing the risk of feather pecking. The roughage/silage is fed several times daily with a mechanical suspension system (robot) on a veranda just outside the broiler house. This stimulates the broilers to leave the house to eat the silage and to increase the use of the outdoor area. Using a mechanical system to allocate silage makes it possible to feed several times a day and supply the broilers with material with a rough structure, which is considered to have positive effect on development of the intestinal system and intestinal health. Target groups are organic farmers and advisors