Welfare assessment of turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo gallopavo) on farm

Abstract

This Scientific Opinion assesses the welfare of turkeys of all ages (Meleagris gallopavo gallopavo) on farm in relation to the type and condition of the litter, type and availability of enrichment (including covered veranda and outdoor range), space allowance, concentrations of ammonia and carbon dioxide, effective environmental temperature, group size, nest conditions, lighting conditions and hatchery conditions, by using 19 welfare consequences and associated animal-based measures (ABMs) for their assessment. In addition, the risks posed by the practices of flock thinning and removal of hens, mutilations (i.e. beak trimming, desnooding and toe trimming), artificial insemination (including semen collection) and feed restriction are assessed, with the latter two practices only in turkey breeders. The welfare consequences of breeding is assessed. Recommendations to prevent and/or mitigate relevant welfare consequences in fattening and breeder turkeys include increasing space allowance compared to the currently provided space, avoiding feed and water deprivation of newly-hatched poults for more than 48 h, and providing enrichment such as elevated platforms, straw-bales and a covered veranda. It is recommended to maintain dry litter conditions, i.e. below a threshold of 35%–40% humidity. Beak trimming, desnooding and toe trimming as well as the associated welfare consequences can be avoided if the recommended housing and management practices are implemented, e.g. increasing space allowance and providing suitable enrichment. It is recommended to discontinue flock thinning and avoid quantitative feed restriction, the latter currently practised in breeder toms. Also, it is recommended to place more emphasis on leg health and less on weight gain in genetic selection. The selected ABMs to monitor relevant welfare consequences at the slaughterhouse are total mortality, plumage damage, carcass condemnation, wounds, breast blisters and footpad dermatitis.