干旱区生态环境知识资源中心

Two experiments were conducted to investigate and compare the performance of laying hens in open-sided minimal shade floor pens and laying cages under cyclic environmental conditions in Kuwait. The first study, which was carried out during 6 months of moderate weather, resulted in significantly better productive performance by the caged hens; however, results were reversed during the second 6 months of hot weather. The hens in cages could not withstand the heat stress resulting from direct sunlight. Averaging both seasons, the hens in floor pens performed better. In the second study, which was carried out during 6 months of hot weather, both the floor pens and the laying cages were provided with curtains for adequate shade. Results showed a significantly better productive performance by the caged hens under moderate weather. Feeding a 15% protein diet gave the best results, whereas providing a 13% protein diet might be adequate during the final stages of production. Under hot weather conditions, hens housed in open-sided minimal shade laying cages will perform better than hens in open-sided minimal shade floor pens only when provided with adequate shade.