Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/chickens
As a lifelong admirer of all creatures great and small, I recently embarked on a journey to deepen my understanding of one of the most common yet often misunderstood domestic animals: the chicken. My chosen guide for this exploration was Coursera’s “Chicken Behaviour and Welfare” course, and I can confidently say it exceeded all my expectations.
This comprehensive course delves into the fascinating world of chicken behavior, covering everything from their evolutionary journey from wild ancestors to their complex social structures and communication methods. The syllabus is thoughtfully structured, starting with the fundamental principles of animal behavior, including domestication, behavior development, and the crucial role of their senses. I particularly enjoyed the modules on behavior patterns, which broke down daily activities like feeding, drinking, and comfort behaviors (like the ever-important dust bath!) into digestible segments. The course doesn’t shy away from the more complex aspects either, dedicating time to reproductive behaviors and even the nuanced topic of abnormal behaviors that can arise.
What truly sets this course apart is its practical application to welfare. The later modules tackle the critical question of “What is chicken welfare?” by defining key concepts like the Five Freedoms and exploring the ethical obligations we have towards these birds. Hearing insights from experts like Dr. Dorothy McKeegan and Dr. Barry Thorp provided invaluable perspectives on assessing welfare through behavioral and physiological indicators. The final module, which examines the effects of housing, transport, and slaughter on bird welfare, is both eye-opening and essential for anyone involved in poultry keeping, whether on a small hobby farm or a larger commercial scale.
The course is delivered through a mix of engaging video lectures, interactive in-video quizzes, and interviews with industry professionals. This varied approach kept me thoroughly engaged throughout. The instructors are knowledgeable and passionate, making even the most technical aspects accessible.
Whether you’re a backyard chicken enthusiast, a commercial poultry farmer, or simply someone curious about the lives of these remarkable birds, I wholeheartedly recommend “Chicken Behaviour and Welfare.” It provides a holistic and science-backed understanding that will undoubtedly enhance how you view and care for chickens. It’s an investment in knowledge that benefits both the birds and the people who care for them.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/chickens