RDVSSVZM

2620

6 janvier 2021 16:24

6 janvier 2021 16:24

The objective of this pilot study was to determine free- range laying hens’ preference for four different cultivated aromatic plants. Twenty ISA Brown laying hens aged 50 weeks were used. Hens were given daily access to a pasture area enriched with Ocimum basilicum, Origanum vulgare, Petroselinum crispum and Anethum graveolens. Aromatic plants were cultivated in identical blocks allocated in the center of the pasture in random order. Quantitative observations, using scan sampling methods, were made in three consecutive days (days 1 to 3). The number of hens visiting each plant (cultivated area) throughout a 3- hour period (9:00 – 12:00) was recorded. Within this period 19 observations spots per day were taken followed by 10-minute intervals. Hens were more frequently visiting the Ocimum basilicum area in comparison to the other plants areas (P<0.05) and this tense remained constant throughout the observation period. The mean percentage of hens visiting Ocimum basilicum was 21.2%, while percentage values for Origanum vulgare, Petroselinum crispum and Anethum graveolens were 5.2%, 9.9% and 5.5%, respectively. Hens’ clear preference for Ocimum basilicum suggests that this plant could be used in future research where its various properties can be studied further.

None

• AB - Transversal
• FREDO alimentation animale
• FREDO mode élevage, bien-être et qualité
• GEO Grèce
• aromatic plant
• breed
• laying hen
• preference
• volaille
• élevage

4

2006

1 janvier 2006