Impact of various husbandry environments on animal health, eggshell hygiene and performance of Japanese quail layers (Coturnix japonica domestica)

The aim of the study was to develop an alternative husbandry system for Japanese quail in a step-by-step procedure. The effects of various floor and nest variants on animal health, eggshell contamination and performance in three housing systems (alternative housing system, AHS; conventional cage system, CCS; floor housing system, FHS) were tested in altogether four laying periods, two of which are described in more detail. The analysis revealed that the plastic grid floor in AHS achieved the poorest results for toe and foot pad hyperkeratosis and foot pad dermatitis. Heavier quail showed more toe pad hyperkeratosis. The claw length was longest in CCS and shortest in FHS. Plumage damage on the head developed sooner and more often in CCS. Heavier quail showed significantly less plumage damage on the head. In general, the plumage condition of quail was better in FHS than in CCS and AHS. For eggshell hygiene, a higher microbial load was found on eggs from FHS, and there were no clear differences between CCS and AHS. The number of second-choice eggs was smallest in CCS and highest in FHS. Particularly the high soiling of eggs that were laid in the litter in FHS stood out. In summary, environmental enrichment had a positive effect on animal health, and FHS achieved the best results. Concerning eggshell hygiene and economic efficiency, the situation is the opposite. A floor material in AHS that suits both foot health and eggshell hygiene was not found, suggesting a need for further research.