Behavioural quantification of welfare in farmed red deer
J.C. Pollard
AgResearch, Invermay Agricultural Centre, Private Bag 50034,
Mosgiel, New Zealand
Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1993,
53: 183-188
Red deer have recently been introduced to the intensive domestic
environment, where there are many social and physical constraints not
experienced by wild deer. Aspects of the social environment likely to affect
welfare include group size, density and composition. Physical aspects of the
pasture environment which may influence welfare are shade, shelter, wallows
and opportunities for ranging behaviour, while variables in the handling
environment which are probably important are pen construction and lighting.
Various methods have been employed to assess welfare in red deer. Studies
of confined deer have indicated that they respond to aversive conditions at
pasture by pacing along fencelines, and in the handling environment by
nosing doors and walls. Preference testing has compared different handling
environments and treatments, and demonstrated that human presence, novelty
and mechanical restraint were aversive. Results from detailed studies of
velvet antler removal suggest that improved methods of providing analgesia
are possible. Research into modifying the basic character of farmed deer
through genetic selection or intensive handling of deer calves has been
instigated. Overall, high welfare standards in deer production systems are a
realistic goal. There are no long-established traditions to adhere to, and a
foundation of productive assessment techniques and results has been
established.
Keywords: NZSAPAB;
Red deer; welfare; behaviour; assessment techniques; review.
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Last Updated 25-01-1997
