Welfare and behaviour in slow-growing chickens: the role of farming system and genotype

The increasing attention of consumers towards sustainability, animal welfare and product quality is pushing the poultry sector to explore alternatives to traditional intensive models. This study evaluated the effect of two farming systems (conventional and free-range) on four poultry genotypes: two local Italian breeds, Bionda Piemontese (BP) and Robusta Maculata (RM), and their F1 crosses with the commercial strain Sasso (BP × S and RM × S). The birds were monitored for growth performance, behaviour, haematological profiles, body condition, excreta corticosterone metabolites (ECM) and tonic immobility. The results show that the farming system significantly influenced the behavioural profiles: the free-range birds showed a higher expression of natural behaviours (such as scratching and dust bathing) and lower levels of faecal corticosterone metabolites, suggesting an improved welfare compared to the intensive system. In terms of production, the genotype had a greater impact: RM and RM × S achieved higher final weights and average growth than BP and BP × S, regardless of the breeding system. Haematological analyses, evaluation of plumage condition and foot health did not show significant differences, indicating good general conditions in all groups. Overall, the study confirms that native breeds and their crosses can effectively adapt to alternative systems, combining satisfactory production results with higher levels of animal welfare. These data support the integration of local breeds in sustainable poultry chains, promoting a more resilient, ethical production model in line with current market demands.