Gut Impaction in Free Range Hens

Free range production is a fast growing sector of the Australian egg industry. However, exposing hens which were genetically selected for intensive in-house cage production to the outdoor environment remains a challenge in many ways. For example, the curiosity of these animals in combination with the ability of feed selection may result in overconsumption of pasture by some birds severely affecting their feed intake. Although only small amounts of nutrients can be attained from grass, consumption of a large amount of grass gives feeling of satiety and as a result the intake of balanced feed is reduced. Consequently malnutrition ensues, resulting in a severe loss of body condition. In sub-clinical cases, affected birds exhibit reduced performance and in severe cases, death. This case study outlines the impact of malnutrition due to animal behavior and housing condition in free-range laying hens, and provides practical solutions.