Ward, J.M., Houston, D.C., Ruxton, G.D., McCafferty, D.J. and Cook, P. (2001) Thermal resistance of chicken (Gallus domesticus) plumage: a comparison between broiler and free range birds. British Poultry Science, 42(5), pp. 558-563. (doi: 10.1080/00071660120088335)
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Abstract
We compared Ross chickens reared under broiler and free-range conditions to see whether there was a difference in thermal resistance of the plumage. 2. There was no difference in resistance to heat loss attributable to rearing environment for plumage from the back and leg but there was a significant difference in the pectoral region. 3. Free-range birds had a thicker plumage and a higher total resistance to heat transfer in the pectoral region, despite showing a lower resistance per unit depth than broiler birds. The pectoral plumage was more heavily soiled in broiler birds, which is the most likely explanation for the higher resistance per unit depth. 4. We suggest that behavioural selection of microclimate is likely to be a more important determinant of heat balance in free-range birds than intrinsic plumage adaptations.
| Item Type: | Articles |
|---|---|
| Status: | Published |
| Refereed: | Yes |
| Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: | McCafferty, Dr Dominic and Ruxton, Professor Graeme and Houston, Professor David |
| Authors: | Ward, J.M., Houston, D.C., Ruxton, G.D., McCafferty, D.J., and Cook, P. |
| College/School: | College of Social Sciences > School of Education College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Life Sciences |
| Journal Name: | British Poultry Science |
| Publisher: | Taylor and Francis Ltd. |
| ISSN: | 0007-1668 |
| ISSN (Online): | 1466-1799 |
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