Effects of Using Hazelnut Husk, Wood Shaving and of the Mixture at Different Thicknesses on Broiler Performances, Some Organ Weights, Foot-Pad Dermatitis and Litter Traits

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the effects of the use of hazelnut husk (HH), wood shavings\r(WS) and the mixture of 50% hazelnut husk + 50% wood shavings (MIX) in two different\rthicknesses (4 and 8 cm) as a litter material in broiler production. The experiment was carried out\ras a factorial experimental design (3 litter type and 2 thickness) and stocking density was 10\rchickens per m2. At 6 wk. of age, the effect of litter types and thicknesses on broiler live weights,\rfeed efficiency, and livability, were not significant. Also, no differences were found in terms of\rgizzard, digestive tract, abdominal fat and edible internal organ weight percentages. While carcass\ryield varied between litter groups, there was no difference between litter thicknesses. The litter\rmoisture levels at the end of the trial were not affected the litter type and litter thickness, while the\rfoot pad dermatitis (FPD) rates were significantly affected. The highest FPD levels were determined\rin the HH litter and 4 cm thickness. As a result, the use of HH, WS and MIX of them with a thickness\rof 4 and 8 cm had no effect on other traits except for FPD levels. It has been observed that these\rlitter materials may be used successfully in broiler production and use of 8 cm thickness litter has\rminor positive effects except that the cost of litter has doubled.