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Dr Victoria Sandilands
This course explains the general principles of chicken behaviour and welfare, and the behavioural and physiological indicators that can be used to assess welfare in chickens kept in hobby flocks through to commercial farms. The focus is primarily on laying hens and meat chickens (broilers) although many of the principles are relevant to other types of poultry. The course is likely to be of interest to people who own chickens as pets or keep a small hobby flock, commercial egg and chicken meat producers, veterinarians and vet nurses.
Learning Objectives: at the end of this course, you will be able to -
Read more
This course explains the general principles of chicken behaviour and welfare, and the behavioural and physiological indicators that can be used to assess welfare in chickens kept in hobby flocks through to commercial farms. The focus is primarily on laying hens and meat chickens (broilers) although many of the principles are relevant to other types of poultry. The course is likely to be of interest to people who own chickens as pets or keep a small hobby flock, commercial egg and chicken meat producers, veterinarians and vet nurses.
Learning Objectives: at the end of this course, you will be able to -
Read more
This course explains the general principles of chicken behaviour and welfare, and the behavioural and physiological indicators that can be used to assess welfare in chickens kept in hobby flocks through to commercial farms. The focus is primarily on laying hens and meat chickens (broilers) although many of the principles are relevant to other types of poultry. The course is likely to be of interest to people who own chickens as pets or keep a small hobby flock, commercial egg and chicken meat producers, veterinarians and vet nurses.
Learning Objectives: at the end of this course, you will be able to -
- Describe avian sensory perception and motivation
- Explain the main behaviour patterns of poultry
- Define welfare and explain the bases of welfare standards
- Assess chicken welfare, using behavioural and physiological means
- Understand common welfare problems of chickens
This course is taught by staff from Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), University of Glasgow, and St David's Poultry Team.
You can follow us on Twitter! #chickenmooc
© University of Edinburgh and Scotland's Rural College 2016 CC BY
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/y12xcy/chicken
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What's inside
Syllabus
Getting Started
This brief module will tell you all the things you need to know to begin, including the syllabus of the course, who we are, how to engage with one another.
Read more
Syllabus
Getting Started
This brief module will tell you all the things you need to know to begin, including the syllabus of the course, who we are, how to engage with one another.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Examines chicken behaviour and welfare, which is essential knowledge for those working or interested in poultry farming
Suitable for those working with poultry on a hobbyist or commercial scale
Covers various aspects of chicken welfare including housing, transport, and slaughter
Teaches how to assess chicken welfare using behavioural and physiological indicators
Requires learners to have a basic understanding of biology and animal behaviour
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Reviews summary
Comprehensive intro to chicken behaviour and welfare
According to learners, this course offers a comprehensive and accessible introduction well-suited for beginners and hobbyists interested in poultry. Students praise the clarity of the video lectures delivered by knowledgeable instructors covering a wide range of essential topics, from behaviour patterns and welfare assessment to housing systems. While many find it extremely helpful for gaining foundational knowledge applicable to backyard flocks, some professionals note the content might be too basic for advanced practice lacking the depth required for commercial or veterinary contexts. Overall, reviews indicate a highly positive learning experience for those new to the subject.
Teaching staff are experts in the field.
"The instructors were clearly experts and passionate about the subject."
"Enjoyed learning from the professors and specialists featured in the videos."
"Their enthusiasm made the learning experience much better."
"You can tell the teaching staff have deep knowledge in this area."
Course provides excellent foundational knowledge for backyard chickens.
"This course was perfect for someone like me who keeps a small flock of chickens."
"I learned so much that I can apply directly to my hobby farm."
"Highly recommend this for anyone new to keeping chickens or interested in their welfare."
"Provided a solid understanding of chicken behavior and welfare for beginners."
Lectures and materials are well-explained and easy to follow.
"The course content was very well presented, clear, and engaging."
"I found the lectures easy to understand and the visuals were helpful."
"The explanations were clear and the instructors seemed very knowledgeable."
"Everything was laid out in a logical way, and the videos held my attention."
Content may be too introductory for experienced professionals.
"As a veterinary professional, I found the course provided a good overview, but lacked the clinical depth I was hoping for."
"Useful as a basic introduction, but not detailed enough for commercial poultry producers seeking advanced information."
"Felt it was aimed more at the backyard keeper rather than someone needing in-depth knowledge for a career."
"Could benefit from more advanced modules or case studies for professionals."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Chicken Behaviour and Welfare with these
activities:
Read 'Animal Behaviour: A Very Short Introduction' by Tristram Wyatt
Show steps
Provide a foundation in the principles of animal behaviour, enhancing understanding of chicken behaviour and welfare.
View
Animal Behaviour: A Very Short Introduction
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read and understand key concepts such as natural selection, learning, and communication
Review 'Animal Welfare 2nd Edition' by Marian Stamp Dawkins
Show steps
Provide a comprehensive overview of the underlying principles of animal welfare science.
View
The Science of Animal Welfare
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read and understand key concepts such as animal sentience, suffering, and well-being
Follow online tutorials on poultry health and nutrition
Show steps
Enhance understanding of poultry health and nutrition, complementing course content with practical insights.
Show steps
-
Identify reputable sources for online tutorials
-
Select tutorials that cover specific topics of interest
-
Take notes and summarize key points
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Engage in online discussions with other students
Show steps
Promote peer learning, encourage critical thinking, and foster a sense of community among students.
Show steps
-
Actively participate in online forums
-
Share insights, ask questions, and engage in constructive debates
Analyze case studies of welfare issues in the poultry industry
Show steps
Develop practical skills in identifying and addressing welfare concerns in poultry production.
Browse courses on
Case Studies
Show steps
-
Study real-world examples of welfare challenges
-
Apply theoretical knowledge to analyze and interpret data
-
Develop evidence-based recommendations for improving welfare outcomes
Organize and summarize course materials
Show steps
Improve retention and understanding by organizing course materials and reinforcing key concepts.
Show steps
-
Review lecture notes, slides, and readings
-
Create summaries, mind maps, or flashcards
-
Identify areas for further study or clarification
Design an enrichment program for a commercial chicken flock
Show steps
Foster creativity and problem-solving skills by applying knowledge of chicken behavior and welfare to a practical application.
Browse courses on
Animal Husbandry
Show steps
-
Identify the specific needs and preferences of the flock
-
Research and select appropriate enrichment devices and activities
-
Design an implementation plan that considers flock size, housing conditions, and budget
-
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the program
Read 'Animal Behaviour: A Very Short Introduction' by Tristram Wyatt
Show steps
Provide a foundation in the principles of animal behaviour, enhancing understanding of chicken behaviour and welfare.
View
Animal Behaviour: A Very Short Introduction
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read and understand key concepts such as natural selection, learning, and communication
Review 'Animal Welfare 2nd Edition' by Marian Stamp Dawkins
Show steps
Provide a comprehensive overview of the underlying principles of animal welfare science.
View
The Science of Animal Welfare
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read and understand key concepts such as animal sentience, suffering, and well-being
Follow online tutorials on poultry health and nutrition
Show steps
Enhance understanding of poultry health and nutrition, complementing course content with practical insights.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify reputable sources for online tutorials
- Select tutorials that cover specific topics of interest
- Take notes and summarize key points
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Engage in online discussions with other students
Show steps
Promote peer learning, encourage critical thinking, and foster a sense of community among students.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Actively participate in online forums
- Share insights, ask questions, and engage in constructive debates
Analyze case studies of welfare issues in the poultry industry
Show steps
Develop practical skills in identifying and addressing welfare concerns in poultry production.
Browse courses on
Case Studies
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Study real-world examples of welfare challenges
- Apply theoretical knowledge to analyze and interpret data
- Develop evidence-based recommendations for improving welfare outcomes
Organize and summarize course materials
Show steps
Improve retention and understanding by organizing course materials and reinforcing key concepts.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review lecture notes, slides, and readings
- Create summaries, mind maps, or flashcards
- Identify areas for further study or clarification
Design an enrichment program for a commercial chicken flock
Show steps
Foster creativity and problem-solving skills by applying knowledge of chicken behavior and welfare to a practical application.
Browse courses on
Animal Husbandry
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the specific needs and preferences of the flock
- Research and select appropriate enrichment devices and activities
- Design an implementation plan that considers flock size, housing conditions, and budget
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the program
Career center
Learners who complete Chicken Behaviour and Welfare will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Poultry Veterinarian
Poultry Veterinarian
Poultry Veterinarians are veterinarians who specialize in the care of chickens and other poultry. They diagnose and treat diseases in poultry, and they develop and implement programs to prevent and control disease outbreaks. This course may be helpful for Poultry Veterinarians by providing them with a better understanding of chicken behavior and welfare, which can help them to provide more effective care for their patients.
Poultry Farmer
Poultry Farmer
Poultry Farmers raise and care for chickens and other poultry. They are responsible for providing food, water, and shelter for their birds, and they monitor their health and welfare. This course may be helpful for Poultry Farmers by providing them with a better understanding of chicken behavior and welfare, which can help them to improve the care and management of their flocks.
Veterinary Technician
Veterinary Technician
Veterinary Technicians assist veterinarians in the care and treatment of animals. They perform a variety of tasks, including taking vital signs, administering medication, and assisting with surgery. This course may be helpful for Veterinary Technicians by providing them with a better understanding of chicken behavior and welfare, which can help them to provide more effective care for chickens.
Animal Welfare Inspector
Animal Welfare Inspector
Animal Welfare Inspectors enforce animal welfare laws and regulations. They investigate complaints of animal abuse and neglect, and they work to ensure that animals are treated humanely. This course may be useful for Animal Welfare Inspectors by providing them with a better understanding of chicken behavior and welfare, which can help them to make more informed decisions about the care and treatment of chickens.
Hatchery Manager
Hatchery Manager
Hatchery Managers oversee the operation of hatcheries. They are responsible for ensuring that chicks are hatched in a healthy and safe environment. This course may be helpful for Hatchery Managers by providing them with a better understanding of chicken behavior and welfare, which can help them to improve the quality of their chicks.
Biosecurity Specialist
Biosecurity Specialist
Biosecurity Specialists help to protect animals from diseases. They develop and implement biosecurity plans, and they train staff on biosecurity procedures. This course may be useful for Biosecurity Specialists by providing them with a better understanding of chicken behavior and welfare, which can help them to develop more effective biosecurity plans.
Research Scientist
Research Scientist
Research Scientists conduct research on a variety of topics, including animal behavior and welfare. They design and conduct experiments, and they analyze data to learn more about the behavior and welfare of animals. This course may be helpful for Research Scientists by providing them with a better understanding of chicken behavior and welfare, which can help them to design more effective research studies.
Zookeeper
Zookeeper
Zookeepers care for animals in zoos and other captive settings. They provide food, water, and shelter for their animals, and they monitor their health and welfare. This course may be helpful for Zookeepers by providing them with a better understanding of chicken behavior and welfare, which can help them to provide more effective care for their animals.
Farm Manager
Farm Manager
Farm Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of farms. They are responsible for planning and implementing farming activities, and they supervise the work of farm staff. This course may be helpful for Farm Managers by providing them with a better understanding of chicken behavior and welfare, which can help them to make better decisions about the care and management of their flocks.
Animal Advocacy
Animal Advocacy
Animal Advocates advocate for the protection and welfare of animals. They work to educate the public about animal welfare issues, and they lobby for changes in laws and policies that protect animals. This course may be useful for Animal Advocates by providing them with a better understanding of chicken behavior and welfare, which can help them to make a stronger case for protecting chickens.
Animal Rights Activist
Animal Rights Activist
Animal Rights Activists advocate for the rights of animals. They believe that animals should be treated with respect and compassion, and they work to end the exploitation of animals. This course may be useful for Animal Rights Activists by providing them with a better understanding of chicken behavior and welfare, which can help them to make a stronger case for the rights of chickens.
Animal Scientist
Animal Scientist
Animal Scientists study the biology, behavior, and welfare of animals. They work to improve the health and productivity of animals, and they develop new technologies and management practices for animal care. This course may be useful for Animal Scientists by providing them with a better understanding of chicken behavior and welfare, which can help them to develop more effective ways to care for chickens.
Poultry Processor
Poultry Processor
Poultry Processors process chickens and other poultry for food. They are responsible for slaughtering, dressing, and packaging poultry products. This course may be helpful for Poultry Processors by providing them with a better understanding of chicken behavior and welfare, which can help them to improve the quality of their products.
Animal Welfare Officer
Animal Welfare Officer
Animal Welfare Officers are responsible for ensuring the welfare of animals in a variety of settings, including farms, laboratories, and zoos. They work to develop and implement policies and procedures that promote animal welfare, and they investigate complaints of animal abuse or neglect. This course may be helpful for Animal Welfare Officers by providing them with a better understanding of chicken behavior and welfare, which can help them to develop more effective policies and procedures for the care of chickens.
Poultry Sales Representative
Poultry Sales Representative
Poultry Sales Representatives sell poultry products to a variety of customers, including restaurants, grocery stores, and food processors. This course may be helpful for Poultry Sales Representatives by providing them with a better understanding of chicken behavior and welfare, which can help them to better understand the needs of their customers.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/y12xcy/chicken
Reading list
We've selected 14 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Chicken Behaviour and Welfare.
Provides a comprehensive overview of animal welfare, covering topics such as the evolution of animal welfare, the ethics of animal welfare, and the assessment of animal welfare. It would be a valuable resource for students and practitioners interested in learning more about the welfare of chickens.
Provides a detailed overview of the behavior of chickens, covering topics such as social behavior, reproductive behavior, and feeding behavior. It would be a valuable resource for students and researchers interested in learning more about the behavior of chickens.
Provides a detailed overview of the behavior of chickens and other birds. It covers topics such as social behavior, communication, reproduction, and learning. It would be a valuable resource for students and practitioners interested in learning more about the behavior of chickens.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the welfare of chickens, covering topics such as housing, nutrition, and disease. It would be a valuable resource for students and researchers interested in learning more about the welfare of chickens.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of animal welfare, covering topics such as animal sentience, ethics, and legislation. It would be a valuable resource for students and researchers interested in learning more about the welfare of chickens.
Provides a detailed overview of the welfare of laying hens, covering topics such as housing, nutrition, and disease. It would be a valuable resource for students and researchers interested in learning more about the welfare of laying hens.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the science and technology of eggs, covering topics such as egg production, egg quality, and egg processing. It would be a valuable resource for students and researchers interested in learning more about the science of chickens.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of animal behavior, covering topics such as animal communication, animal learning, and animal social behavior. It would be a valuable resource for students and researchers interested in learning more about the behavior of animals.
Provides a comprehensive overview of animal welfare science. It covers topics such as the ethics of animal welfare, the assessment of animal welfare, and the development of animal welfare policies.
Save
Comprehensive reference on the science of poultry production. It covers a wide range of topics, including poultry nutrition, poultry housing, and poultry diseases.
Provides a comprehensive overview of poultry meat processing and quality. It covers topics such as poultry slaughter, poultry processing, and poultry meat quality.
Provides a comprehensive overview of poultry nutrition. It covers topics such as poultry feed ingredients, poultry feed formulation, and poultry nutrition management.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of poultry diseases. It covers topics such as poultry disease diagnosis, poultry disease prevention, and poultry disease treatment.
Contains the proceedings of the 16th European Symposium on Poultry Welfare. It covers a wide range of topics related to poultry welfare, including poultry housing, poultry nutrition, and poultry diseases.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/y12xcy/chicken
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Dr Victoria Sandilands
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