An Evaluation of Pullet and Young Laying Hen Ammonia Aversion Using a Preference Test Chamber

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2009-06-01
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Hayes, Morgan
Xin, Hongwei
Li, Hong
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Xin, Hongwei
Distinguished Professor Emeritus
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Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering

Since 1905, the Department of Agricultural Engineering, now the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (ABE), has been a leader in providing engineering solutions to agricultural problems in the United States and the world. The department’s original mission was to mechanize agriculture. That mission has evolved to encompass a global view of the entire food production system–the wise management of natural resources in the production, processing, storage, handling, and use of food fiber and other biological products.

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In 1905 Agricultural Engineering was recognized as a subdivision of the Department of Agronomy, and in 1907 it was recognized as a unique department. It was renamed the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering in 1990. The department merged with the Department of Industrial Education and Technology in 2004.

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1905–present

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  • Department of Agricultural Engineering (1907–1990)

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Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
Abstract

This research evaluated what ammonia concentration causes pullets or young laying hens to show an aversion. Because previous studies had shown conflicting data for laying hen aversion at 25 ppm ammonia, this aversion was tested with pullets and young laying hens in the current study. The test birds used in this study had not previously experienced elevated ammonia concentrations and thus their natural aversion could be determined. The evaluation of aversion was done using a newly developed Environmental Preference Test Chamber (EPTC). The birds were monitored to determine the percentage of occupation time (POT) under a higher ammonia concentration (25 ppm) vs. a low ammonia concentration (<10 ppm). The POT was measured over the total day (24 hr) as well as the lighted period only. Feed usage was also monitored as a possible indicator of aversion. Although none of the differences in POT or feed usage were significantly different, both lighted day POT and feed usage showed a trend of relationship (p= 0.13, p=0.16 respectively). This ongoing study aims to determine the birds’ aversion as part of a larger study to determine if ammonia or thermal discomfort drives preference.

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This is an ASABE Meeting Presentation, Paper No. 096132.

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Thu Jan 01 00:00:00 UTC 2009