A main part of my research is focused on abnormal and unwanted behaviour in poultry, e.g. cannibalism, feather pecking, gregarious nesting, high levels of inactivity and the associated welfare consequences. I investigate the underlying motivations and develop preventive methods, e.g. through changes in early rearing conditions, design of housing equipment and supply of environmental enrichment. Focus is also on welfare assessment, both in terms of surveys and in terms of development and validation of the methods used during assessments.
Key words: abnormal behaviour, alternative housing systems, behavioural needs, broilers, broiler breeders, environmental enrichment, health, laying hens, mutilation, welfare, welfare assessment
