The roles of selection and husbandry in the development of locomotory dysfunction in turkeys

Objective

Consumers increasingly demand meat, which is both affordable and obtained from welfare friendly production systems. Currently, there is an unacceptably high level of locomotor dysfunction in growing turkeys with unprecedented levels of tibia dyschondroplasia. It has been suggested that turkey locomotor problems are a result of selection for production traits. It is also know that locomotor problems can be influenced by husbandry practices. The welfare implications of locomotor dysfunction have not been fully appraised. This project aims to address these issues and has 4 main objectives: A. To define normal gait, skeletal and related behavioural parameters in growing turkeys with unprecedented levels of tibia dyschondroplasia.

Programme(s)

• FP5-LIFE QUALITY - Specific Programme for research, technological development and demonstration on "Quality of life and management of living resources", 1998-2002

Topic(s)

• 1.1.1.-5. - Key action Sustainable Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

Funding Scheme

CSC - Cost-sharing contracts

Coordinator

ROSLIN INSTITUTE (EDINBURGH)

Address

EH25 9PS Roslin
United Kingdom

Participants (3)

BRITISH UNITED TURKEYS LTD

United Kingdom

Address

Hockenhull Hall Tarvin
CH4 0EW Chester

CENTRE FOR APPLIED POULTRY RESEARCH

Netherlands

Address

Spelderholt 9
7361 DA Beekbergen

SWISS FEDERAL VETERINARY OFFICE

Switzerland

Address

Burgerweg 22
3052 Zollikofen