Abnormal behaviour
Pecking
We recognize different kinds of pecking. Gentle pecking
we consider as normal behaviour and severe pecking as
abnormal behaviour.
Gentle pecking: careful pecks, not resulting in feathers
being pulled out and usually without interaction from the
recipient bird. This is a social and explorative behaviour
Severe/injurious pecking: forceful pecks, sometimes with
feathers being pulled out and with the recipient bird
moving away. This is clearly an aggressive behaviour.
There are stressful circumstances, which may result in
aggression. If some of the birds start pecking aggressively
(not all pecking is aggressive, much is occupational and
non-damaging) it is usual to hear squawks of pain from
the pecked birds. This needs early identification, as it
is abnormal. It is an indication that there is a serious
stress affecting the flock, and prompt remedial action
is essential.
Loss of feather cover leads to increased heat loss and
consequently to higher feed consumption.