My research interests relate to housing and management of poultry in ways that are sensitive to their needs while being sustainable in UK farming. Much of my work is conducted under government grants (both Scottish Government and Defra), but increasingly my work involves collaboration with well-known poultry companies, animal welfare organisations, and industry councils. The advantage of working in the poultry industry is that it is a relatively intimate group of people, and I like to think we are working towards similar goals in many instances.
Recently, I have been working on housing non-beak trimmed hens in furnished cages, humane methods of poultry culling, how to manage non-beak trimmed hens in furnished cages, whole-house gassing of poultry, and using a force plate to measure walking style in broiler (meat) chickens. All of the studies I’m involved in are a team effort with fellow members of ASRC, and often with other members of the Animal and Veterinary Sciences Research Group.
In addition to my research, I am an active committee member of the World’s Poultry Science Association and the International Society for Applied Ethology.
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Coursera
Dive into the fascinating world of chickens with our Chicken Behaviour and Welfare course. Gain insights into understanding chicken behavior and learn practical ways to ensure their welfare. This course is designed for anyone involved in poultry care, from hobbyists to commercial farmers, aiming to provide a better life for these birds.