Alternative management strategy to promote welfare in laying hen production systems during the Amazonian summer

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the effects of an alternative system compared to a conventional system on performance, egg quality, bioclimatic parameters, behavior, and economic viability of commercial laying hens during the Amazonian summer. A total of 120 Hissex Brown hens were monitored for 90 days (from August to November). The alternative system showed a significantly higher egg production rate (83.57%) compared to the conventional system (80.33%) (p≤0.05), although it also recorded a higher feed conversion ratio (kg/kg) (p≤0.05). Albumen height, Haugh unit, and yolk color were superior in the alternative system, while egg weight and shell thickness were lower (p≤0.05). Bioclimatic indices indicated greater thermal stress in the conventional system during the afternoon (p≤0.05). Behavioral observations revealed greater expression of natural behaviors in the alternative system. Economically, feed cost was lower, and gross profit, profitability, and break-even point were more favorable in the alternative system (p≤0.05). It was concluded that the alternative system was more efficient in promoting animal welfare, supporting natural behavioral expression, and ensuring productive and economic returns.