Chicken Behaviour and Welfare: A Guide to Poultry Management

Understanding the complex lives of chickens is essential for anyone responsible for their care, whether you manage a backyard flock or a larger operation. This course provides a foundational understanding of how chickens interact with their environment and what their behaviors reveal about their physical and mental health. You will transition from basic observation to evidence-based welfare assessment by learning to read the subtle signs of poultry well-being. By the end of this course, you will be able to implement practical improvements to bird environments and recognize the specific requirements of different breeds and production types. What you'll learn: - Understand the evolutionary origins and natural social behaviors of chickens. - Identify behavioral and physiological indicators used to assess bird welfare. - Apply modern welfare frameworks and biosecurity basics to flock management. - Differentiate between the unique needs of laying hens and meat chickens. - Recognize signs of stress, pain, and environmental frustration in poultry. - Practice evaluating housing systems for optimal health and enrichment. The course begins with essential terminology and the biological foundations of poultry behavior before moving into practical welfare assessment techniques and environmental management strategies through written explanations and case studies. This course is designed for beginners, including pet chicken owners, hobby farmers, and those interested in poultry science, with no prior experience required. Start building your expertise in poultry care and welfare today.