Inducing moulting in organic laying hens

Extending organic layer hen lifespan through humane, controlled artificial moulting protocols

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Detail description

Artificial moulting in organic laying hens extends productive lifespan by 6–8 months, addressing ethical concerns over culling pullets and male chicks. This guide outlines a humane, day-by-day protocol for inducing moulting through controlled dietary changes and environmental adjustments. It covers benefits of moulting for hen health and egg production, and provides solutions for common challenges like reduced feed intake. Intended for organic poultry farmers and advisors in German-speaking regions, the resource is published by FIBL (Research Institute of Organic Agriculture) as part of sustainable, welfare-focused layer production.

Contribution detail info

Project

OK-Net EcoFeed

Organic Knowledge Network on Monogastric Animal Feed

Location
Switzerland
Authors
Esther Zeltner
Purpose
Other, Implement best practices

File type
document
Created on
Apr 03, 2026
Origin language
German
Official project website
OK-Net EcoFeed
License
Other


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