If you are trying to decide between deep litter vs aviary poultry systems, you’ve come to the right place. The choice however, is not a straight forward one.
For one, there are too many factors to consider, and some of those factors will be beyond your control. For instance, market perception and demand, and applicable regulation.
Nonetheless, informing yourself of how deep litter vs aviary poultry systems compare can help you get closer to an informed choice.
Deep litter vs aviary poultry systems defined
In brief, in a deep litter system, litter from birds is allowed to accumulate on the floor, which also serves as the living surface. Initially, bedding material such as saw dust or wood shavings covers the ground. Since the flock lives in the space, it accumulates litter. Consequently, this forms a deep litter which the system is named after.
On the other hand, in an aviary system, living spaces are organized into multiple levels. An aviary affords more space for movement to birds. Additionally, it enables the stocking of a large flock in a limited space.
Deep litter vs aviary poultry systems compared
The following comparison is by no way comprehensive. However, it should suffice to give you a good idea of the differences between the two.
Refer to a previous article: poultry housing systems to familiarize yourself with the 4 main poultry housing systems.
| Deep litter system | Aviary system | |
|---|---|---|
| System classification | Intensive | Intensive |
| Capital requirements | Low | High |
| Land requirements | Low | Low |
| Living space | Floor | Stacked aviaries |
| Feed conversion ratio (FCR) | Applicable | Applicable |
| Scientific method application | Effective | Effective |
| Biosecurity measures | Effective | Effective |
| Produce safety | Medium | Medium |
| Labor needs | High / Automate-able | Very high / Automate-able |
| Animal welfare perception | Medium | Low – to – medium |
| Produce perception | Conventional | Conventional |
What is your take on this, did we miss something? Can we include other points for the comparison? Let us know in the comments section below.
If you are considering between caged and aviary poultry systems, you will fancy this article: From cages to aviaries: practical solutions for poultry house renovations.
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