Hock burn: an indicator of broiler flock health

Abstract

This study aimed to identify risk factors for the prevalence of hock burn, a common disease of broiler chickens that influences the welfare and profitability of affected flocks, using hierarchical logistic regression analysis of routine flock management data. The study identified an association between hock burn and other diseases detected at slaughter and found that the management of flocks around the slaughter period was of particular importance for the control of hock burn, providing a rational basis for intervention.