Why is it important for layer hens to express normal behaviours?
The ability to express normal behaviours is important to every hen whether they are housed in cage or cage-free systems....
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Articles tagged with 'Behavioural needs'
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Is group housing preferable to individual housing of dairy calves?
Calves born in a natural environment will begin interacting with each other at around 1-2 weeks of age when the... -
What are the animal welfare issues with weaning nose rings and other anti-suckling devices for calves?
Anti-suckling devices such as nose rings or nose flaps are designed to wean calves off milk by preventing access to... -
Should elephants be kept in zoos?
In general, the RSPCA is not opposed to the keeping of animals in government-endorsed zoos where zoos are able to... -
What is the RSPCA’s view on keeping dolphins in captivity?
Dolphins are marine mammals belonging to the group known as cetaceans, which also includes whales, orcas and porpoises. RSPCA Australia... -
What are the key things I should understand about horse behaviour?
Understanding at least basic horse behaviour is a very important part of responsible horse ownership. A good understanding of horse... -
What is virtual fencing (or virtual herding) and does it impact animal welfare?
What is virtual fencing? Virtual fencing aims to remotely map and control livestock grazing behaviour without the use of fixed... -
What is the RSPCA’s view on nose rings for pigs?
The RSPCA believes that pigs must not be nose ringed to prevent them from rooting and foraging, as the nose... -
Why is environmental enrichment important for pig welfare?
Providing environmental enrichment may be an effective strategy to improve animal welfare by enabling positive affective (emotional) states and improving... -
Why is group housing important for pig welfare?
Pigs are intelligent, social animals, with a complex range of behaviours and needs. Group housing of pregnant pigs allows them... -
Why is wallowing important for pig welfare?
Wallowing is a natural behaviour which pigs are motivated to perform and, when given the opportunity, pigs will make their... -
What are the welfare concerns for breeder birds in the meat chicken industry?
Breeder birds in the meat chicken industry lay the eggs that will hatch into chickens grown for meat. There are... -
How much space does a meat chicken need?
All animals need to have enough space to carry out their normal behaviours, and to be physically healthy. When it... -
Why is access to adequate light important for meat chicken welfare?
Access to adequate light and periods of darkness are necessary for meat chicken welfare, as they encourage natural behaviours including... -
Can you give me some general advice on caring for my rabbits?
There are about 30 breeds of rabbits, ranging in colours, shapes and sizes but all need similar care and attention.... -
How should I handle my rabbit?
Rabbits who are properly socialised (including being handled appropriately) from a young age tend to be calmer and more confident... -
What companionship do rabbits need?
Rabbits are a social species and have evolved to live in groups. In the wild, rabbits do not live alone.... -
Why is rabbit bonding important and how is it done?
Rabbits need the company of their own kind but you cannot just mix two unfamiliar rabbits without following the proper... -
What companionship do my guinea pigs need?
Guinea pigs are a social species and need to be kept with other guinea pigs. In their natural habitat, they... -
What exercise and environmental enrichment do guinea pigs need?
Guinea pigs need exercise, mental stimulation, environmental enrichment, and the ability to express normal behaviours. The normal behaviours that guinea...