Fermentation bed farming improves behavioral expression and stress resistance in geese

TL;DR

Fermentation bed farming helps geese behave more naturally and reduces their stress levels compared to traditional methods.

Contribution

This study demonstrates the benefits of fermentation bed farming on goose behavior and stress resistance.

Findings

Geese in fermentation beds showed more natural behaviors like sitting and walking.

Stress markers were lower in geese raised in fermentation beds after transport.

Fermentation bed farming improved immune and antioxidant responses in geese.

Abstract

Conventional livestock farming restricts the expression of natural behaviors and exacerbates animal stress responses. This study investigated the effects of fermentation bed farming, a novel welfare-oriented system, on the behavior and stress resistance of geese.

240 Northern White Geese (‌Anser cygnoides) were randomly assigned to either a flat-floor farming (Ct group) or a fermentation bed farming (Tre group). Data of behavioral patterns and post-transport blood parameters were analyzed.

Compared to the Ct group, the Tre group showed significantly longer durations of sitting, walking, cage pecking, and comforting behaviors, while reduced standing and feather pecking behaviors (p < 0.05). Post-transport, serum levels of HSP70, HSP90, CORT, SP, Hpt, IL-2, IL-6, and MDA were significantly lower in the Tre group (p < 0.05), whereas levels of IgA, IgG, IgM, IL-4, SOD, and GSH-Px were significantly higher (p < 0.05).

In conclusion, fermentation bed farming improves behavioral expression and enhances stress resistance in geese.

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