The Effect of Beak Trimming on Two Strains of Commercial Tom Turkeys. 2. Behavior Traits

Abstract

The influence of beak trimming of two strains of commercial male turkeys (Strains A and B) on behavior during the growing period was investigated. Poults were either left with beaks intact or arc beak trimmed at hatching. Strain by beak treatment interactions were generally lacking, indicating that these two strains responded similarly. Beak trimming did not influence tameness (as measured by response to a novel object at 16 wk), fearfulness (as measured by tonic immobility response at 18 wk), or resting behavior from 3 to 15 wk of age. When compared to birds with intact beaks, birds with trimmed beaks spent more time standing during the week of hatching and were observed eating more often at 2 wk of age. Strain B birds were more tame, less fearful, and rested more at 8 and 11 wk of age than Strain A birds. Results of the current study indicate that the influence of arc beak trimming at hatching on behavior of male turkeys is transitory. Arc beak trimming of male turkeys at hatching did not appear to have a lasting negative impact on their wellbeing.