Laying Hens: Why Smothering and Not Surviving?—A Literature Review.

Simple Summary: Simple Summary: Recent studies have delved into the adverse phenomenon of smothering in cage-free laying hen-rearing systems, challenging the traditional notion of this behavior as "natural" or the result of hysteria among birds in the flock. This work identifies smothering as a detrimental, abnormal behavior with significant economic repercussions for poultry farming. Through a comprehensive literature review and bibliographic mapping, combined with consultations with poultry farmers via extension services and rural technical assistance, this study illuminates the environmental triggers of smothering behavior. The investigation reveals that factors inherent to the birds' rearing environment precipitate this behavior, underscoring an urgent need for detailed, focused research into avian behavioral physiology. The objective is to unravel the complex interplay between production systems, animal welfare, and their economic implications on poultry operations. This study not only advances our understanding of bird behavior in intensive production contexts but also offers valuable insights for improving welfare standards and economic outcomes in the poultry industry. The proliferation of rearing systems providing opportunities for birds to engage in natural behaviors can trigger behavioral repertoires that when not manageable compromise animal welfare and the economic viability of the flock. Smothering in laying hens has long been perceived as "natural" or the result of hysteria among birds in the flock. However, the current literature has recognized smothering as an abnormal outcome with the potential to result in significant losses in cage-free poultry systems. Recent studies have specifically aimed to categorize the organization of smothering behavior and highlight its potential causes and consequences. In this study, literature review and bibliographic mapping, drawing on published articles and engagement with poultry farmers through extension and rural technical assistance, were employed. The findings indicate that smothering is a behavior triggered by factors related to the environment in which the laying hens are kept. This study concludes that there is a critical need for more rigorous and detailed research to elucidate the nuances of avian behavioral physiology and assess the impact of production systems on animal welfare and the economic impacts on the flock. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of bird behavior in high-production environments and provides practical insights for the poultry industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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