Biography:
Marconi Italo Lourenço da Silva, Animal Scientist from Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Master in Animal Science with an emphasis on poultry production, animal welfare and ethology from Sao Paulo State University, campus in Botucatu, Brazil. He is currently a PhD student in Animal Science at the same institution and develops studies related to the use of environmental enrichment in a commercial environment aiming to increase the quality of life of birds in confined farming associated with productivity.

Speaking Date:
Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2021

Presentation Time:
11:00 - 11:30 a.m.

Presentation Title:
Welfare and Productivity of Broiler Chickens in Enriched Environments

Presentation Summary:
Animal welfare practices in production systems are increasing demands in the world. The increased level of consumer awareness has led to the offering of products that meet improved welfare standards. An alternative for broiler chickens is the addition of environmental enrichment resources in the confined system, which arouse interest and stimulate the expression of the animal's natural behaviors. In studies developed at Sao Paulo State University - Brazil in partnership with the Latin American Poultry Association and the US Poultry & Egg Association, the objective was to evaluate the economic viability of using straw bales, light spots (simulating insects) and step platforms such as environmental enrichment, as well as their influence on the welfare and productivity of broiler chickens.