Effect of cage density on performance and egg quality traits of layers

This experiment was carried out to assess the effect of cage density levels of 4, 5 and 6 birds per cage, at 540 (low-density=L), 432 (normal-density=N) and 360 (high-density=H) cm(2)/hen densities, on performance and egg quality traits in Lohmann layers. Hens placed in H-density and N-density cages had lower feed consumption and feed conversion ratio (FCR), but similar egg production. However, averages of live weight gain were adversely affected at the highest density level. There were no differences among groups in terms of egg quality parameters. A cage density of 360 cm2/hen may be recommended for laying hens weighing 1.5 to 1.7 hg.