Effects of stocking density on stress responses and meat quality characteristics of lambs transported for 45 minutes or 3 hours

Abstract Effects of stocking density [(LOW: 0.4 m 2 /lamb); (MED: 0.3 m 2 /lamb); (HIGH: 0.2 m 2 /lamb)] on behavioural traits, haematological parameters and meat quality of Kivircik lambs transported for 45 min (SHORT) or 3 h (LONG) were investigated. SHORT lambs’ behaviour was not affected by stocking density, while long duration MED lambs stood longer than their counterparts. HIGH lambs in long duration lost more weight during transport than MED lambs. Only the LDH levels of SHORT lambs were affected by stocking density and MED lambs had lower LDH levels after transport. Long duration HIGH lambs had higher glucose and LDH levels than others. Stocking density didn’t affect cortisol levels after transport. Long duration LOW group had lower pH values, lighter meat colour and tender meats. Welfare or meat quality of lambs were not affected when low stocking density was provided to prevent possible negative effects in long transports. However, in short duration, the effect of stocking density on the majority of investigated traits wasn’t significant. Therefore, lambs can be carried at suitable stocking densities within the legal limits for short durations.