Eyes on Animals spoke at a seminar of the World’s Poultry Science Association in Wageningen, sharing observations and experiences from the field on the catching and loading of poultry.
In practice, most birds are still caught by one leg, pulled from the floor or housing system, and pushed or thrown into transport containers or crates while hanging upside down. This is often done at high speed, with birds panicking and hitting equipment along the way – leading to significant stress and injuries.
The impact is not limited to the animals. Catchers work under demanding conditions, often at night, in dark and dusty barns, where speed tends to take priority over careful handling – leading to fatigue and frustration.
But it can be done differently. In several countries, Eyes on Animals has helped introduce upright catching — a calmer and more controlled method that reduces stress and injuries. In Brazil and Thailand, this method is already common practice.
While there is still a long way to go, the discussions made clear that improving catching practices is both necessary and achievable.
