Impacts of rearing enrichments and range use on production, behaviour, health and welfare of free-range hens-dataset

Abstract

The dataset is organised by chapter. Chapter 2 contains data relating to free-range egg production from different laying locations throughout their laying cycle (18 – 64 weeks). The hen-day egg production from 18 to 25 weeks was recorded in a sheet whereas egg production from 26 to 64 weeks was recorded in another sheet. The egg weights were also recorded at weekly intervals. The number of abnormal eggs was also recorded daily. The egg quality parameters at 44, 52, 60, and 64 weeks were recorded in another sheet of the dataset.<br> Chapter 3 data contains the welfare parameters of the free-range hens throughout their laying cycle from different rearing treatments and range use patterns. Also, it contains the data of egg quality upon implementing an environmental stressor. The range use difference of hens after implementing stressors was also recorded. Egg albumen corticosterone concentration levels were recorded from different levels of stressor implemented.<br> Chapter 4 data contains the fearfulness tests outcomes including tonic immobility (TI), emergence test (ET), open field test (OFT), and novel object test (NOT). It contains the vocalisations and automated step analysis data in the OFT.<br> Chapter 5 data contains the post-mortem analysis constraints including the external and internal health parameters. In addition, it contains the welfare parameters of hens just prior to the post-mortem analysis along with the information CT scan of whole hens for their body composition.<br> Chapter 6 data contains the relevant information for gut microbiota composition of hens from different rearing treatments and ranging patterns. In addition, it contains information on pullets required for the gut microbiota composition analysis.