Poultry Vices: Hidden Habits That Reduce Farm Profitability
Poultry farming is one of the fastest-growing sectors of animal husbandry. However various
behavioural disorders or vices can adversely affect bird welfare, productivity, and farm
profitability. Poultry vices are abnormal behaviours that develop due to management,
nutritional, environmental, or genetic factors and often result in significant economic losses.
Common vices observed in poultry include cannibalism, egg eating, egg hiding, pica, and
feather picking. Factors such as overcrowding, nutritional deficiencies, excessive light
intensity, parasitic infestations, and stress contribute to the development of these undesirable
behaviours. Early identification of risk factors and implementation of preventive measures are
essential for effective control. Proper housing, balanced nutrition, adequate feeder and drinker
space, appropriate lighting management, provision of nesting facilities, timely egg collection,
debeaking and maintenance of flock health can significantly reduce the occurrence of vices.
Understanding the causes and preventive measures of poultry vices is crucial for improving
bird welfare, enhancing productivity, and ensuring sustainable poultry production.