Epigenetic transfer of behaviour and stress susceptibility in the laying hen: influence of rearing and housing of different strains of parent stock on offspring phenotype
Principal Investigator - Tina Widowski, University of Guelph
Year the work was done - 2013-2018
Overall objective -
Investigate the transfer of behavioural traits and stress susceptibility from laying hens to their offspring, determine whether egg traits and offspring behaviour differ with age of breeder flock, and whether some genotypes are more sensitive to these effects than others.
→ Read More
Development of flight and locomotion in laying hens
Principal Investigator - Alexandra Harlander, University of Guelph
Year the work was done - 2013-2018
Overall objective -
To investigate the development of locomotion in the air and on the ground in pullets and laying hens, the birds’ preferences for flying and walking, and the significance of this knowledge for the proper rearing and housing of pullets and laying hens in aviary systems.
→ Read More
Impact of ammonia on welfare of poultry
Principal Investigator - Alexandra Harlander, University of Guelph
Year the work was done - 2013-2018
Overall objective -
Investigate feeding behaviour in relation to the presence of manure.
→ Read More
Identifying developmental determinants of successful behavioural adaptation and musculoskeletal health of egg-laying hens
Principal Investigator - Tina Widowski, University of Guelph; Karen Schwean-Lardner, University of Saskatchewan; Bettina Willie, McGill University
Year the work was done - 2018-2023
Overall objective -
Advance understanding of the bone biology of laying hens and identify practices for housing and managing of different strains of pullets that result in a successful adaptation to a complex housing environment and a healthy hen to end-of-lay.
→ Read More