This session uses the biological sciences to help listeners better understand the physiology of avians, both in the pet industry and in industrialized farms, enabling listeners to become stronger advocates for avian welfare.

Topics covered within the presentation include:
-How the digestive, integumentary, reproductive and skeletal systems of birds have evolved for the sole purpose of enabling flight.
-How humans utilize both genetic and environmental manipulation to affect the reproductive tracts of modern chickens.
-Standard industry practices that impact avian welfare.
-Physiological indicators of poor welfare in birds.

Key Learnings :

1. All biological adaptations that occur in birds, are for enabling flight.
2.The majority of ailments found in birds can be traced back for poor husbandry/welfare.
3.The physiological systems of chickens have been heavily manipulated by humans over time.