Development of a web application for the risk assessment of the worm load of free-range laying hens (Wurmfrei)

In Germany, many laying hens are kept in alternative forms of husbandry with free-range access. Worm eggs accumulate in the run because there are only limited biosecurity measures for prevention and treatment. An infestation with worms (so-called gastrointestinal helminths) can lead to health impairments and even the death of the laying hens. In the ‘WURM-Frei’ project, conclusions are to be drawn about the effectiveness of various farm-specific measures through the continuous recording of management measures of the participating farms and the regular monitoring of the parasite load (via faecal sample examinations). With the help of the knowledge gained in the practical phase, a web application will be developed that can be used by conventional and organic farms throughout Germany. The web application is intended to make it easier to classify one’s own company with regard to the risk of worm infection. The safety weaknesses are identified on a farm-by-farm basis and optimisation measures are proposed.