An automated nest box system for individual performance testing and parentage control in laying hens maintained in groups

The functionality of a new nest box system developed at the Institute for Animal Science and Animal Behaviour Mariensee for performance testing and parentage control of laying hens in floor pens was evaluated. The system,which we refer to as the automated identification nest system "Auto-Nest", is based on a chicken nest box similar to commercially available ones; a special entrance door consisting of two flaps to isolate hens during laying; an automated identification and recording system; and an egg collection device to maintain the order in which eggs are laid. It was shown that in a sample of 102 fertilised eggs laid in the "Auto-Nest", 98% percent were correctly assigned to the hen.