2002cminf6add

Ministers’ Deputies
Information documents

CM/Inf(2002)6 Addendum 19 February 2002

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Standing Committee of the European Convention for the protection of animals kept for farming purposes¹
42^nd meeting
(Ghent, 4 – 7 December 2001)
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Recommendation concerning domestic ducks (Anas platyrhynchos)

Recommendation concerning Muscovy ducks (Cairina moschata) and
hybrids of Muscovy and domestic ducks (Anas platyrhynchos)

Recommendation concerning domestic geese
(Anser anser f. domesticus, Anser cygnoides f. domesticus)
and their crossbreeds

Recommendation concerning fur animals

RECOMMENDATION CONCERNING DOMESTIC DUCKS
(Anas platyrhynchos)

adopted by the Standing Committee
at its 37^th meeting on 22 June 1999 *

__________

PREAMBLE

(1) The Standing Committee of the European Convention on the Protection of Animals kept for Farming Purposes,

(2) Having regard to its responsibility under Article 9 of the Convention for the elaboration and adoption of recommendations to the Parties containing detailed provisions for the implementation of the principles set out in Chapter I of the Convention based on scientific knowledge concerning the various species of animals;

(3) Aware also of the established practice in the implementation of the principles of animal welfare set out in Articles 3 - 7 of the Convention;

(4) Aware that the basic requirements for the health and welfare of livestock consist of good stockmanship, husbandry methods appropriate to the biological needs of the animals and suitable environmental factors, so that the conditions under which ducks are kept fulfil the needs for appropriate nutrition and methods of feeding, freedom of movement, physical comfort; the need to perform natural behaviour in connection with getting up, lying down, resting and sleeping postures, wing-flapping, walking, running, bathing, preening, eating, drinking, defecating, adequate social contact and egg-laying; the need for protection against adverse climatic conditions, injury, fear and distress, infestation and disease or behavioural disorder; as well as other essential needs as may be identified by established practice or scientific knowledge;

(5) Concerned that developments in breeding and biotechnology shall not adversely affect the health and welfare of domestic ducks;

(6) Bearing in mind that it is an obligation of the Committee to reconsider any recommendation when relevant new knowledge is available and therefore wishing to encourage the continuation of research by all Parties with the object of making optimum use of new techniques to ensure that the needs of the ducks are met and hence that their health and welfare are good;

(7) Considering that, in the light of established experience and scientific knowledge about the biological needs of ducks, some methods of husbandry at present in commercial use, often fail to meet all essential needs and hence result in poor welfare;

(8) Bearing in mind that the environment and management have to fulfil the animal's biological needs rather than trying to "adapt" the animals to the environment by procedures such as mutilations;
_________
* In accordance with Article 9, paragraph 3 of the Convention, this Recommendation entered into force on 22 December 1999.

(9) Considering therefore that strong and continuous efforts have to be made to adapt existing systems and methods and to develop new husbandry systems and methods in line with the Convention so that the needs of the animals can be met;

(10) Considering that further research on the health and welfare of ducks should be encouraged and that the relevant provisions in the Recommendation shall be reviewed in the light of new scientific evidence;

(11) Has adopted the following Recommendation concerning domestic ducks:

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1

1. This Recommendation shall apply to domestic ducks (Anas platyrhynchos) kept for the production of meat, for breeding or for any other farming purpose.

2. Special provisions contained in the Appendix to this Recommendation constitute an integral part thereof.

Article 2

No duck taken from the wild shall be kept for farming purposes.

BIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE DOMESTIC DUCK

Article 3

When considering husbandry practices the biological characteristics of the domestic duck (Anas platyrhynchos) presented above should be borne in mind.

a. All breeds of domestic duck, the Muscovy being a separate species, are descended from the wild mallard Anas platyrhynchos and have been domesticated for about 2 000 years. Originally domesticated for use as live decoys, they are now kept primarily for meat and egg production but also for ornamental purposes. Intensive selection over the last 100 years has led to differentiation between egg-laying breeds, such as the Khaki Campbell, and meat breeds, such as the Pekin and Rouen, although all breeds retain many biological characteristics of their wild ancestors.

b. Under wild conditions, the mallard is largely aquatic, living socially in large flocks during autumn and winter, but dispersing into pairs during the breeding season. The pairs form during the winter and after the spring migration to the breeding ground, the flock spreads out and the pairs become socially isolated. As spring and summer progress, the males flock together and are joined later by the females, when rearing is completed.

c. Pair formation is reinforced by courtship displays and vocalisations. Copulation is preceded by elaborate social courtship by both the male and female. The male often directs courtship at many females, pursuing and attempting to mate. The nest site is chosen by the female and she lays an average of 8-10 eggs per clutch, which she incubates for 27-28 days.

There may be 2 or 3 clutches per year. During incubation of the last clutch, the drake departs to the moulting ground. The female rears the young until they can fly, the ducklings learning from the mother's actions. Also the down feathers of the ducklings are oiled through contact with their mother's oily feathers which helps to protect the ducklings when coming into contact with water. After rearing the young the female duck also moves to the moulting area.

d. Mallards are omnivorous, feeding on seeds, plants, insects and worms. They have webbed feet and feed by foraging on land or by dabbling the beak along water which is then expelled through lamellae on each side of the beak, straining out planktonic organisms. The beak is richly innervated and very well supplied with sense organs. In deeper water, ducks may 'up-end' or even dive. Mallards fly, swim and walk efficiently.

However, the heavier domestic birds, in particular those selected for meat production, may be unable to fly, have difficulty in walking and be subject to leg disorders.

e. Ducks spend considerable time performing complex preening behaviours. After feeding followed by bathing, ducks carry out a variety of shaking movements to remove water. Cleaning movements then remove foreign bodies and an elaborate sequence is carried out to distribute oil on the feathers from the uropygial gland above the tail. This is necessary for waterproofing and heat regulation. Preening is often followed by sleeping for a short period, and the sequence of feeding, bathing, preening and sleeping may be repeated a number of times during the day. Important elements of bathing are the immersion of the head and wings, and shaking water from these over the body.

f. Domestic ducks have retained many anti-predator responses such as freezing, alarm-calling, attempts to take off or run rapidly away from danger, and vigorous struggling if caught. Such behavioural responses may be associated with, or replaced by, emergency physiological responses. Human approach or contact often elicits such responses.

STOCKMANSHIP AND INSPECTION

Article 4

1. Any person who owns ducks, or for the time being has ducks under his or her control, and every person engaged in the keeping of ducks shall, according to their responsibilities, ensure that every reasonable step is taken to safeguard the health and welfare of the birds.

2. The ducks shall be cared for by a sufficient number of personnel with adequate knowledge of ducks and of the husbandry system used to be able to:

(a) recognise whether or not the birds are in good health;

(b) understand the significance of behavioural changes;

The stockman must be aware of the role of animal welfare in the daily work with birds. The issuing of a certificate of competence for the stockman by the competent authorities should be considered.

3. Ducks shall be caught and handled only by competent trained staff, working under the direct supervision of the stockman and in accordance with Article 19.

4. The size or density of the group shall not be too large with respect to the possibility to supervise the group and a large group shall not be set up unless it is reasonably certain that the stockman can safeguard the welfare of the birds.

Article 5

1. In order to develop a positive relationship between man and bird, there shall be frequent, calm and close approach from an early age such that the bird is not unduly frightened.

2. Young ducks should be given appropriate experience of management practices
(e.g. particular feeding and watering systems) and environmental conditions (e.g. natural light, sufficient water to fulfil biological requirements, litter) to enable them to adapt to the husbandry systems which they will encounter later in life.

Article 6

Ducks bred for farming purposes shall not be used to achieve any other goal, including public spectacles or demonstrations, if such use is likely to be detrimental to their health and welfare.

Article 7

1. The flock or group shall be thoroughly inspected at least once a day, preferably more frequently, to monitor the physical condition of the animals. In carrying out such inspections, it should be borne in mind that while there should not be unnecessary noise or disturbance, young ducklings in particular respond to being called or hearing human voices. A source of light strong enough for each bird to be seen clearly shall be available for the purpose of this inspection. Such inspections shall be made independently of any automatic surveillance equipment. In addition to the thorough inspection the flock or group should be checked at other times during the day.

2. For thorough overall inspection of the flock or group of birds, special attention shall be paid to bodily condition, movements and other behaviour patterns, respiration, condition of plumage, eyes, skin, beak, legs and feet; attention shall also be paid to the presence of external parasites, to the condition of droppings, to feed and water consumption and to growth. Where appropriate the birds shall be encouraged to walk or bathe. Mortality, culling and, if possible, morbidity levels shall be closely monitored and post-mortem examinations should be carried out regularly. Records shall be kept of the results.

3. Individual examination shall be made of those birds for which the overall inspection indicates this to be necessary.

Article 8

1. At the inspection it must be borne in mind that the healthy bird has sounds and activity appropriate to its age, sex, breed or type, clear bright eyes, good posture, vigorous movements if unduly disturbed, clean healthy skin, good plumage, well-formed shanks and feet, effective walking, bathing and preening, and active feeding and drinking behaviour.

2. If the ducks are apparently not in good health, or if they are showing obvious signs of behavioural aberrations, the stockman shall take steps without delay to establish the cause and shall take appropriate remedial action. If the immediate action taken by the stockman is not effective, a veterinarian must be consulted, and, if necessary, expert advice must be sought on other technical factors involved. If the cause is traced to an environmental factor within the enclosure or accommodation which it is not essential to remedy immediately this shall be corrected when the enclosure or accommodation is emptied and before the next batch of ducks is put in.

3. Injured, sick or distressed birds shall be treated without delay and if necessary be separated from the rest of the flock in suitable accommodation available for this purpose or killed in accordance with Article 24.

ENCLOSURES, BUILDINGS AND EQUIPMENT

Article 9

1. Professional advice on health and welfare aspects should be sought when a new enclosure or accommodation for ducks is planned or when existing enclosures or accommodation are modified in accordance with the legislation in force.

2. New methods of husbandry and new design of equipment or accommodation for ducks should be comprehensively tested from the point of view of health and welfare and, when tests are undertaken, shall not be put into commercial use unless found to be satisfactory, in accordance with a procedure laid down by the competent authority.

Article 10

When new accommodation for ducks is planned, a suitable site shall be selected taking into consideration the risks from outside environmental factors such as noise, light, vibration, atmospheric pollution and dangers from predators. Where appropriate, advantage shall be taken of natural features to provide shelter from predators and from adverse weather conditions.

Article 11

1. The design, construction and maintenance of enclosures, buildings and equipment for ducks shall be such that they:

- allow the fulfilment of essential biological requirements of ducks, in particular in respect of water, and the maintenance of good health;
- avoid barren environments;

- do not cause traumatic injuries to the birds;
- limit the risk of disease, disorders manifested by behavioural changes, injuries caused by birds to each other and, as far as possible, contamination of the birds by bad water quality;
- avoid sharp corners, projections and materials which may be harmful to the birds;
- provide protection from predators and adverse weather conditions, and, as far as possible, from rodents and wild birds;
- allow for easy maintenance of good conditions of hygiene, air and water quality;
- allow, without difficulty, a thorough inspection of all birds;
- facilitate management of the birds.

2. Access to an outside run and water for bathing are necessary for ducks, as water birds, to fulfil their biological requirements. Where such access is not possible, the ducks must be provided with water facilities sufficient in number and so designed to allow water to cover the head and be taken up by the beak so that the duck can shake water over the body without difficulty. The ducks should be allowed to dip their heads under water.

3. Water facilities should be constructed over a well drained area and shall always be kept clean.

4. Feeding and watering equipment shall be designed, constructed, placed, operated and maintained in such a way that:
- it minimizes contamination of food and water ;
- all birds have sufficient access to it to avoid undue competition between individuals ;
- it does not cause or result in injury to birds ;
- it operates in all weather conditions ;
- the provision of water and the overall consumption of feed can be controlled.

5. Young ducks must have free access to shelter at all times and all ducks shall have access to shelter against adverse weather conditions. Buildings in which birds are confined shall be constructed and maintained in such a way as to minimize any risk of fire. Materials should be fire resistant or treated with flame retardants; all appropriate measures shall be taken to allow for immediate action in order to protect birds, e.g. installing an alarm system and elaborating an evacuation plan for the birds. Electrical equipment and wiring shall be well maintained.

6. Where ducks are housed, floors shall be of a suitable design and material and not cause discomfort, distress or injury to the birds. The floor shall include an area of a sufficient size to enable all birds to rest simultaneously and covered with an appropriate bedding material.

7. Ducks shall not be kept in individual cages.

Exceptionally, breeding birds may be kept in cages as part of special testing programmes, provided that the cage allow for the needs of the animal to be met. Where current cages do not allow for the needs of the birds to be fulfilled, they can only be permitted until they are worn out, or become otherwise useless.

8. In the case of ducks kept for breeding, an adequate number of nesting facilities of a suitable design and size shall be available.

Nest boxes and resting areas shall not be so high above floor level that birds have difficulty or risk injury in using them.

MANAGEMENT

Article 12

1. When considering the establishment or replacement of a flock, the choice of the strain of bird should be made with the aim of reducing health and welfare problems.

2. Measures shall be taken to minimize aggression and stress, especially when new groups are formed but also to ensure that stability of the group is maintained.

3. The space allowance for birds shall be such that their demands on the whole environment, their age, sex, live weight, health and their need to move around freely and to perform normal behaviour including social behaviour of the species be satisfied. The size of the group shall be such that it does not lead to behavioural or other disorders or injuries.

4. Adequate litter shall be provided and maintained, as far as possible, in a dry, friable state in order to help the birds to keep themselves clean and to enrich the environment.

5. Frequent checks shall be made to ensure that the environment is not infested by parasites or other harmful organisms.

6. Routine or systematic use of drugs to compensate for poor hygienic conditions or management practices shall not be allowed.

Article 13

1. When ducks are kept indoors without free access to an outer enclosure, the accommodation shall be kept so that the ambient temperature, the air velocity, the relative humidity, the dust level and other atmospheric conditions do not adversely affect the health or welfare of the birds. The stocking density of groups shall, when they are set up, take account of ventilation capacities of the buildings in order to maintain adequate temperatures to prevent heat stress, in particular during hot weather. Moreover, appropriate measures such as cooling of buildings, shall be taken when the weather is exceptionally hot.

2. The ventilation system, and facilities for storing and handling litter and manure shall be designed, maintained and managed to prevent the exposure of birds to gases such as ammonia, hydrogen sulphide, carbon dioxide in concentrations which cause discomfort to the birds or which are detrimental to their health.

3. Where the health and welfare of ducks depend on automatic or other mechanical systems of ventilation, an effective alarm system shall be installed and arrangements shall be made to ensure continued adequate ventilation in the event of power or equipment failure.

4. Where buildings need to be locked, arrangements shall be made to allow rapid entry in case of emergency.

Article 14

1. Young ducklings should not be subjected to conditions which cause either panting due to overheating or prolonged huddling and feather-ruffling due to underheating.

2. During long periods of sub-zero temperatures under free range conditions a freely accessible shelter must be provided for ducks. The shelter shall be large enough to contain all birds at the same time, be maintained at moderate temperatures and contain suitable bedding.

3. In free range systems, enclosed range areas should be used in rotation, and flocks moved before the land becomes contaminated with organisms that can cause or carry disease to an extent which could seriously prejudice the health of the birds. Portable houses and drinking facilities shall be moved when necessary to avoid continuously muddy conditions.

4. If ducks are to be driven from one place to another this should be done quietly and slowly.

Article 15

The sound level shall, as far as practicable, be minimized and constant or sudden noise shall be avoided. Ventilation fans, feeding machinery or other equipment shall be constructed, placed, operated and maintained in such a way that it causes the least possible noise, both directly inside the accommodation and indirectly through the structure of the accommodation itself.

Article 16

1. All buildings shall have light levels sufficient to allow all ducks to see one another and to be seen clearly, to investigate their surroundings visually and to show normal levels of activity. As far as practicable, natural light shall be provided. In this case, light apertures should be arranged in such a way that light is distributed evenly within the accommodation.

2. After the first days of conditioning, the lighting regime shall be such as to prevent health and behavioural problems. Therefore, it shall follow a 24 hour rhythm and include a sufficient uninterrupted dark period, as a guideline approximately a third of the day.

3. A twilight period should be given in the dimming of lights in order to avoid disturbance or injury.
Article 17

1. All ducks shall have appropriate access to adequate, nutritious, balanced and hygienic feed each day and to adequate supplies of water of suitable quality at all times. In the case of birds which have difficulty in feeding or drinking, appropriate measures shall be taken in accordance with Article 8 paragraph 3.

2. Methods of feeding and feed additives which cause injury or distress to the ducks or may result in development of physical conditions detrimental to health and welfare shall not be permitted.

3. Sudden changes in the type or quantity of feed and feeding procedures shall be avoided except in case of emergency.

This shall not apply in the case of therapeutic or prophylactic treatment administered on the instructions of a veterinarian.

Article 18

All automatic or other mechanical equipment upon which birds depend for their health and welfare must be thoroughly checked at least once daily. Where defects are discovered these must be rectified immediately, or, if this is impracticable, other appropriate steps must be taken to safeguard the health and welfare of the ducks until the defect can be rectified.

Article 19

1. Collection times shall be co-ordinated with production requirements at the slaughterhouse in order to limit the time birds are held in transport containers/crates.

2. Ducks shall not be entirely deprived of food or water before transport, except in the case of transport to a slaughterhouse which is close to the point of production.

3. Before de-populating enclosures or houses, any hindrance from fixtures and fittings, especially sharp edges or protrusions, must be removed. Particular care shall be taken when moving birds within or from an enclosure or house to ensure that no bird is injured by the equipment or the handling process.
Where possible, birds shall be encouraged to walk and handling reduced to a minimum.

4. Care must be taken in catching birds in order to avoid panic and subsequent injury to and smothering of the birds, for example by reducing the intensity of the light or using a blue light.

5. Unfit birds, even if they have reached slaughter weight, must not be sent for slaughter. Any bird which is unable to stand on both legs shall not be transported but must be humanely killed on the farm in accordance with the provisions of Article 24.

6. Birds shall not be carried hanging head downwards or by the legs alone. Their weight shall be supported by a hand placed under their body and an arm around the body to keep the wings in the closed position. Heavy birds shall be carried individually and put into containers/crates one by one. Transport crates with large openings shall be used.

7. The distance birds are carried shall be minimised, for example by bringing transport containers/crates as close to the birds as possible.

8. The containers shall not be overstocked and must be well ventilated. During the time the birds are held in the containers, they shall be protected from bad weather and excessively hot or cold conditions.

9. Every effort shall be made to encourage the development of improved systems for handling large numbers of birds.

Article 20

1. Those parts of the accommodation with which the ducks come into contact shall be thoroughly cleaned, and, where appropriate, disinfected every time the accommodation has been emptied and before new birds are brought in. Accommodations, enclosures and all equipment, including facilities for providing water, shall be kept satisfactorily clean as long as birds are present.

2. Any dead bird must be removed from enclosures and shelters promptly and hygienically in accordance with existing legislation.

Article 21

When there is a risk of attack by predators, measures shall be taken to minimize the risk in accordance with domestic law and other legal instruments for the protection of animals or for the conservation of threatened species.

CHANGES OF GENOTYPE OR PHENOTYPE

Article 22

has been demonstrated by scientific studies of animal welfare that the birds can be kept under such conditions without detriment to their health or welfare.

2. In breeding programmes, particular attention shall be paid to criteria conducive to the improvement of birds' health and welfare, as well as to production criteria. Therefore, the conservation or development of breeds or strains of birds which would limit or reduce animal welfare problems shall be encouraged.

Article 23

1. For the purpose of this Recommendation, "mutilation" means a procedure carried out for other than therapeutic or diagnostic purposes in single birds and resulting in damage to or the loss of a sensitive part of the body or the alteration of bone structure, or causing a significant amount of pain or distress.

2. The mutilation of ducks shall be prohibited, with the exception of tagging for identification purposes which must be done in such a way as to avoid unnecessary distress. Methods causing less distress than tagging shall be promoted.

3. Feathers, including down, shall not be plucked from live birds.

KILLING

Article 24

1. If ducks are ill or injured to such an extent that treatment is no longer feasible and transport would cause additional suffering, they must be killed on the spot. This must be done without causing undue pain, agitation or other forms of distress and without delay by a person properly trained and experienced in the techniques of killing except in emergency when such a person is not immediately available.

2. The methods used shall either:

a. cause immediate loss of consciousness and death, or

b. rapidly render the bird insensible to pain and distress, until death supervenes, or

c. cause the death of a bird which is anaesthetized or effectively stunned.

Drowning and suffocation shall not be permitted. As ducks are not as susceptible to carbon dioxide as certain other birds, the use of carbon dioxide shall be avoided.

Methods which may be used for killing unwanted ducklings and embryos in hatcheries are set out in the Appendix.

3. The person responsible for the killing shall ensure that for each duck the requirements of paragraph 2 are fulfilled and that the animal is dead.

SUPPLEMENTARY PROVISION

Article 25

This Recommendation shall be reviewed within 5 years of coming into force, and, if appropriate, amended in particular according to any new scientific knowledge, in particular in respect to the provision of water and to stocking densities, which becomes available.

APPENDIX

KILLING OF UNWANTED DUCKLINGS AND EMBRYOS IN HATCHERIES

1. Ducklings which are not intended for rearing shall be killed as soon as possible.

2. Ducklings should be killed by using a mechanically operated apparatus approved for this purpose in accordance with national legislation, designed and operated in such a way as to ensure that all ducklings are killed immediately even if they are handled in large numbers.

3. Only gases or gas mixtures which do not induce respiratory distress to the birds during induction may be used. The procedures shall be in accordance with Article 24 and approved under the legislation in force in each country.

Measures shall be taken to ensure rapid death and to avoid suffocation under other ducks by putting birds in a single layer and monitoring gas concentrations.

4. To kill any living embryo instantaneously, all hatchery waste shall be treated without delay using the mechanical apparatus mentioned above or any living embryo must be killed without delay in accordance with Article 24.

RECOMMENDATION CONCERNING MUSCOVY DUCKS
(Cairina moschata) AND HYBRIDS OF MUSCOVY
AND DOMESTIC DUCKS (Anas platyrhynchos)

adopted by the Standing Committee
at its 37^th meeting on 22 June 1999 *

____________

PREAMBLE

(5) Concerned that developments in breeding and biotechnology shall not adversely affect the health and welfare of the ducks;

(6) Bearing in mind that it is an obligation of the Committee to reconsider any recommendation when relevant new knowledge is available and therefore wishing to encourage the continuation of research by all Parties with the object of making optimum use of new techniques to ensure that the needs of the ducks are met and hence that their health and welfare are good;

(7) Considering that, in the light of established experience and scientific knowledge about the biological needs of ducks, some methods of husbandry at present in commercial use, often fail to meet all essential needs and hence result in poor welfare;

_____________
* In accordance with Article 9, paragraph 3 of the Convention, this Recommendation entered into force on 22 December 1999.

(8) Aware of the welfare problems connected to certain practices in the production of foie gras which do not meet the requirements of the Convention, and anxious to encourage research on welfare aspects and alternative methods with a view to ensuring a further examination of this question; mindful of the need, in the meantime, to solve the welfare problems by modifying these practices;

(9) Bearing in mind that the environment and management have to fulfil the animal's biological needs rather than trying to "adapt" the animals to the environment by procedures such as mutilations;

(10) Considering therefore that strong and continuous efforts have to be made to adapt existing systems and methods and to develop new husbandry systems and methods in line with the Convention so that the needs of the animals can be met;

(11) Considering that further research on the health and welfare of ducks should be encouraged and that the relevant provisions in the Recommendation shall be reviewed in the light of new scientific evidence;

(12) Has adopted the following Recommendation concerning Muscovy ducks and hybrids of Muscovy and domestic ducks:

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1

1. This Recommendation shall apply to Muscovy duck (Cairina moschata) and hybrids of Muscovy and domestic ducks kept for the production of meat, for breeding or for any other farming purpose.

2. Special provisions contained in the Appendix to this Recommendation constitute an integral part thereof.

BIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MUSCOVY DUCKS AND HYBRIDS
OF MUSCOVY AND DOMESTIC DUCKS

Article 2

When considering husbandry practices, the biological characteristics of Muscovy duck and hybrids of Muscovy and domestic ducks should be borne in mind.

a. The Muscovy duck (Cairina moschata) or musk duck or mute duck originated in South America. It was domesticated by the Colombian and Peruvian Indians and then introduced to the Old World by the Spaniards and the Portuguese in the 16th century. The Muscovy duck has been domesticated in many parts of the world. Female Muscovy ducks were used in the past as natural incubators for hatching common duck eggs.

b. Even if under natural conditions the Muscovy duck is a tropical bird and lives in marshy forests, its robustness and hardiness have enabled it to adapt to different climates and habitats. It has both claws and webbed feet.

c. Muscovy ducks are sexually dimorphic, the male being almost twice the weight of the female. Aggressive and sexual displays are simple and not well differentiated. In the male, these may take the form of crest-raising, tail-shaking and moving the head backwards and forwards. Muscovy ducks, especially the males, are more aggressive than mallard breeds. Muscovy ducks are not noisy birds. Vocalisation is in the form of hissing. The cry of male Muscovy ducks is merely a sort of puffing and adult female are mute.

In the wild, copulation occurs during the rainy season on water. After copulation, the female selects a nest site, usually in a tree hollow or sometimes in rushes, and lays 8 - 15 eggs which she incubates for about 35 days. The male is polygamous and does not participate in nest-site selection or incubation. The female rears the young until they can fly and the ducklings learn from the mother's actions. When compared with domestic duck, the embryonic development of Muscovy ducks is longer and the ducklings take longer to reach sexual maturity.

d. The male Muscovy duck has a well-developed caruncle at the base of the beak just behind the eyes, which is even more prominent during the mating season. The beak is richly innervated and very well supplied with sensory receptors.

e. Muscovy ducks are omnivorous, feeding on plants, worms, insects, fish, amphibians and reptiles. They feed by dabbling, foraging and up-ending.

f. Muscovy ducks fly, swim and walk efficiently. Birds presently used for meat production have not undergone selection to the same extent as other poultry, but heavy birds may be unable to fly, have difficulty in walking and be subject to leg disorders.

g. Muscovy ducks spend considerable time performing complex preening behaviours. After feeding followed by bathing, ducks carry out a variety of shaking movements to remove water. Cleaning movements then remove foreign bodies and an elaborate sequence is carried out to distribute oil from the feathers from the uropygial gland above the tail. This is necessary for waterproofing and heat regulation. Preening is often followed by sleeping for a short period, and the sequence of feeding, bathing, preening and sleeping may be repeated a number of times during the day.

h. Farmed Muscovy ducks have retained many anti-predator responses such as freezing, alarm-calling, attempts to take off or run rapidly away from danger, and vigorous struggling if caught. Such behavioural responses may be associated with, or replaced by, emergency physiological responses. Male Muscovy ducks and hybrids fight frequently using their claws, wings and beaks, particularly for chasing off intruders.

i. The Muscovy and domestic duck hybrid is obtained by crossing a female domestic duck and a male Muscovy. It is a sterile hybrid because of the difference in chromosome sizes between the two parents. It is hardier than the Muscovy. It shows little sexual dimorphism and is able to flourish in cooler conditions.

STOCKMANSHIP AND INSPECTION

Article 3

2. The ducks shall be cared for by a sufficient number of personnel with adequate knowledge of Muscovy ducks and hybrids of Muscovy and domestic ducks and of the husbandry system in use to be able to:

(a) recognise whether or not the birds are in good health;

(b) understand the significance of behavioural changes;

The stockman must be aware of the role of animal welfare in the daily work with birds. The issuing of a certificate of competence for the stockman by the competent authorities should be considered.

3. Ducks shall be caught and handled only by competent trained staff, working under the direct supervision of the stockman and in accordance with Article 18.

4. The size or density of the group should not be too large; a large group shall not be set up unless it is reasonably certain that the stockman can safeguard the welfare of the birds.

Article 4

1. In order to develop a positive relationship between man and bird, there shall be frequent, calm and close approach from an early age such that the bird is not unduly frightened.

2. Young ducks should be given appropriate experience of management practices (e.g.
particular feeding and watering systems) and environmental conditions (e.g. natural light, sufficient water to fulfil biological requirements, litter) to enable them to adapt to the husbandry systems which they will encounter later in life.

Article 5

Ducks bred for farming purposes shall not be used to achieve any other goal, including public spectacles or demonstrations, if such use is likely to be detrimental to their health and welfare.

Article 6

1. The flock or group shall be thoroughly inspected at least once a day, preferably more frequently, to monitor the physical condition of the animals. In carrying out such inspections, it should be borne in mind that while there should not be unnecessary noise or disturbance, young ducklings in particular respond to being called or hearing human voices. A source of light strong enough for each bird to be seen clearly shall be available for the purpose of this inspection. Such inspections shall be made independently of any automatic surveillance equipment. In addition to the thorough inspection the flock or group should be checked at other times during the day.

2. For thorough overall inspection of the flock or group of birds, special attention shall be paid to bodily condition, movements and other behaviour patterns, respiration, condition of plumage, eyes, skin, beak, legs and feet; attention shall also be paid to the presence of external parasites, to the condition of droppings, to feed and water consumption and to growth. Where appropriate the birds shall be encouraged to walk or bathe. Mortality, culling and, if possible, morbidity levels shall be closely monitored and post-mortem examinations should be carried out regularly. Records shall be kept of the results.

3. Individual examination shall be made of those birds for which the overall inspection indicates this to be necessary.

Article 7

1. At the inspection it must be borne in mind that the healthy bird has sounds and activity appropriate to its age, sex, breed or type, clear bright eyes, good posture, vigorous movements if unduly disturbed, clean healthy skin, good plumage, well-formed shanks and feet, effective walking, bathing and preening, and active feeding and drinking behaviour.

ENCLOSURES, BUILDINGS AND EQUIPMENT

Article 8

1. Professional advice on health and welfare aspects should be sought when new accommodation for ducks is planned or existing accommodation is modified in accordance with legislation in force.

2. New methods of husbandry and new design of equipment or accommodation for ducks should be comprehensively tested from the point of view of health and welfare and, when tests are undertaken, shall not be put into commercial use unless found to be satisfactory in accordance with a procedure laid down by the competent authority.

Article 9

Article 10

1. The design, construction and maintenance of enclosures, buildings and equipment for ducks shall be such that they:

- allow the fulfilment of essential biological requirements of ducks, in particular in respect of water, and the maintenance of good health;
- avoid barren environments;
- do not cause traumatic injuries to the birds;
- limit the risk of disease, disorders manifested by behavioural changes, injuries caused by birds to each other and, as far as possible, contamination of the birds by bad water quality;
- avoid sharp corners, projections and materials which may be harmful to the birds;
- provide protection from predators and adverse weather conditions, and, as far as possible, from rodents and wild birds;
- allow for easy maintenance of good conditions of hygiene, air and water quality;
- allow, without difficulty, a thorough inspection of all birds;
- facilitate management of the birds.

2. Access to an outside run and water for bathing is necessary for ducks, as water birds, to fulfil their biological requirements. Where such access is not possible, the ducks must be provided with water facilities sufficient in number and so designed to allow water to cover the head and be taken up by the beak so that the duck can shake water over the body without difficulty. The ducks should be allowed to dip their heads under water.

3. Water facilities should be constructed over a well drained area and shall always be kept clean.

4. Feeding and watering equipment shall be designed, constructed, placed, operated and maintained in such a way that:

- it minimises contamination of food and water ;
- all birds have sufficient access to it to avoid undue competition between individuals ;
- it does not cause or result in injury to birds ;
- it operates in all weather conditions ;
- the provision of water and the overall consumption of feed can be controlled.

5. Young ducks must have free access to shelter at all times and all ducks shall have access to shelter against adverse weather conditions. Buildings in which birds are confined shall be constructed and maintained in such a way as to minimise any risk of fire. Materials should be fire resistant or treated with flame retardants; all appropriate measures shall be taken to allow for immediate action in order to protect birds, e.g. installing an alarm system and elaborating an evacuation plan for the birds. Electrical equipment and wiring shall be well maintained.

6. Where ducks are housed, floors shall be of a suitable design and material and not cause discomfort, distress or injury to the birds. The floor shall include an area sufficient to enable all birds to rest simultaneously and covered with an appropriate bedding material.

7. Housing systems for ducks shall allow the birds to:
- stand with a normal posture,
- turn around without difficulty,
- defecate showing normal movements,
- flap the wings,
- show normal preening movements,
- perform normal social interactions,
- carry out normal feeding and drinking movements.

These requirements shall apply for new accommodation or when existing ones are replaced, from 31^st December 2004.

All accommodation shall fulfil these requirements by 31^st December 2010.

In the meantime, Contracting Parties concerned by this production should encourage replacement of existing accommodation not fulfilling these requirements.

8. In the case of ducks kept for breeding, an adequate number of nesting facilities of a suitable design and size shall be available.

Nest boxes and resting areas shall not be so high above floor level that birds have difficulty or risk injury in using them.

MANAGEMENT

Article 11

1. When considering the establishment or replacement of a flock, the choice of the strain of bird should be made with the aim of reducing health and welfare problems.

2. Measures shall be taken to minimise aggression and stress, especially when new groups are formed but also to ensure that stability of the group is maintained.

4. Adequate litter shall be provided and maintained, as far as possible, in a dry, friable state in order to help the birds to keep themselves clean and to enrich the environment.

5. Frequent checks shall be made to ensure that the environment is not infested by parasites or other harmful organisms.

6. Routine or systematic use of drugs to compensate for poor hygienic conditions or management practices shall not be allowed

Article 12

1. When ducks are kept indoors without free access to an outer enclosure, the accommodation shall be kept so that the ambient temperature, the air velocity, the relative humidity, the dust level and other atmospheric conditions do not adversely affect the health or welfare of the birds. The stocking density of groups shall, when they are set up, take account of ventilation capacities of the buildings in order to maintain adequate temperatures to prevent heat stress, in particular during hot weather. Moreover, appropriate measures, such as cooling of buildings, shall be taken when the weather is exceptionally hot.

4. Where buildings need to be locked, arrangements shall be made to allow rapid entry in case of emergency.

Article 13

1. Young ducklings should not be subjected to conditions which cause either panting due to overheating or prolonged huddling and feather-ruffling due to underheating.

4. If ducks are to be driven from one place to another this shall be done quietly and slowly.

Article 14

The sound level shall, as far as practicable, be minimised and constant or sudden noise shall be avoided. Ventilation fans, feeding machinery or other equipment shall be constructed, placed, operated and maintained in such a way that it causes the least possible noise, both directly inside the accommodation and indirectly through the structure of the accommodation itself.

Article 15

1. All buildings shall have light levels sufficient to allow all ducks to see one another and to be seen clearly, to investigate their surroundings visually and to show normal levels of activity. As far as practicable, natural light shall be provided. In this case, light apertures should be arranged in such a way that light is distributed evenly within the accommodation.

3. A twilight period should be given in the dimming of lights in order to avoid disturbance or injury.

Article 16

2. Methods of feeding and feed additives which cause distress, injury or disease to the ducks or may result in development of physical or physiological conditions detrimental to their health and welfare shall not be permitted.

3. Sudden changes in the type or quantity of feed and feeding procedures shall be avoided except in case of emergency.

This shall not apply in the case of therapeutic or prophylactic treatment administered on the instructions of a veterinarian.

Article 17

Article 18

1. Collection times shall be co-ordinated with production requirements at the slaughterhouse in order to limit the time birds are held in transport containers/crates.

2. Ducks shall not be entirely deprived of food or water before transport, except in the case of transport to a slaughterhouse which is close to the point of production.

4. Care must be taken in catching birds in order to avoid panic and subsequent injury to and smothering of the birds, for example by reducing the intensity of the light or using a blue light.

7. The distance birds are carried shall be minimised, for example by bringing transport containers/crates as close to the birds as possible.

9. Every effort shall be made to encourage the development of improved systems for handling large numbers of birds.

Article 19

1. Those parts of the accommodation with which the ducks come into contact shall be thoroughly cleaned, and, where appropriate, disinfected every time the accommodation has been emptied and before new birds are brought in. Accommodation, enclosures and all equipment, including facilities for providing water, shall be kept satisfactorily clean as long as birds are present.

2. Any dead bird must be removed from enclosures and shelters promptly and hygienically in accordance with existing legislation.

Article 20

When there is a risk of attack by predators, measures shall be taken to minimise the risk in accordance with domestic law and other legal instruments for the protection of animals or for the conservation of threatened species.

CHANGES OF GENOTYPE OR PHENOTYPE

Article 21

1. Breeding or breeding programmes which cause or are likely to cause suffering or harm to any of the birds involved shall not be practised. In particular, birds whose genotype has been modified for production purposes shall not be kept under commercial farm conditions unless it has been demonstrated by scientific studies of animal welfare that the birds can be kept under such conditions without detriment to their health or welfare.

Article 22

1. For the purpose of this Recommendation, "mutilation" means a procedure carried out for other than therapeutic or diagnostic purposes on single birds and resulting in damage to or the loss of a sensitive part of the body or the alteration of bone structure, or causing a significant amount of pain or distress.

2. The mutilation of ducks shall be prohibited, with the exception of:

a. circumstances and procedures detailed in paragraph 3 below;
b. tagging for identification purposes which must be done in such a way as to avoid unnecessary distress.

Methods causing less distress than tagging shall be promoted.

3. Where birds injure one another with the beak or claws measures shall be taken to avoid the need for mutilations referred to below by changing inappropriate environmental and management factors or management systems and selecting appropriate breeds and strains of bird.

If these measures are not sufficient to prevent suffering by the birds, exceptions to this prohibition may be made on a case by case basis by the competent authority only in respect of the following procedures:

- removal of that portion of the hook on the upper mandible projecting beyond the intact lower mandible (see fig. 1 and 2);
- trimming of the claws (see fig. 3).

Such exceptions may be allowed in accordance with a procedure defined by the competent authority subject to these techniques not being routine.

Exceptions to the general prohibition of mutilation made in accordance with paragraphs 2.a. shall be reviewed regularly by each Party involved to determine whether or not they shall be maintained. The Standing Committee shall be informed annually of the improvement made in this respect and the number of premises for which exemptions have been given.

4. Feathers, including down, shall not be plucked from live birds.

KILLING

Article 23

1. If ducks are ill or injured to such an extent that treatment is no longer feasible and transport would cause additional suffering, they must be killed on the spot. This must be done without causing undue pain, agitation or other forms of distress and without delay by a person properly trained and experienced in the techniques of killing unless in emergency when such a person is not immediately available.

2. The methods used shall either:

a. cause immediate loss of consciousness and death, or
b. rapidly render the duck insensible to pain and distress, until death supervenes, or
c. cause the death of an duck which is anaesthetised or effectively stunned.

Drowning and suffocation shall not be permitted. As ducks are not as susceptible to carbon dioxide as certain other birds, the use of carbon dioxide shall be avoided.

Methods which may be used for killing unwanted ducklings and embryos in hatcheries are set out in the Appendix.

3. The person responsible for the killing shall ensure that for each duck the requirements of paragraph 2 are fulfilled and that the duck is dead.

SUPPLEMENTARY PROVISION

Article 24

1. Countries allowing foie gras production shall encourage research on its welfare aspects and on alternative methods which do not include gavage.

In any case, the competent authorities shall monitor this type of production to ensure the implementation of the provisions of the Recommendation.

3. The Standing Committee shall be informed annually of the results obtained and measures taken to improve housing and management procedures and control production.

FINAL PROVISION

Article 25

This Recommendation shall be reviewed within 5 years of coming into force and, if appropriate, amended according to any new scientific knowledge which becomes available, in particular in respect to the provision of water, stocking densities and ways of reducing the need to carry out mutilations.

APPENDIX

KILLING OF UNWANTED DUCKLINGS AND EMBRYOS IN HATCHERIES

1. Ducklings which are not intended for rearing shall be killed as soon as possible.

3. Only gases or gas mixtures which do not induce respiratory distress to the birds during induction may be used. The procedures shall be in accordance with Article 23 and approved under the legislation in force in each country.

Measures shall be taken to ensure rapid death and to avoid suffocation under other ducks by putting birds in a single layer and monitoring gas concentrations.

RECOMMENDATION CONCERNING DOMESTIC GEESE
(Anser anser f. domesticus, Anser cygnoides f. domesticus)
AND THEIR CROSSBREEDS

adopted by the Standing Committee
at its 37^th meeting on 22 June 1999 *
____________

PREAMBLE

(1) The Standing Committee of the European Convention on the Protection of Animals kept for Farming Purposes,

(2) Having regard to its responsibility under Article 9 of the Convention for the elaboration and adoption of recommendations to the Parties containing detailed provisions for the implementation of the principles set out in Chapter I of the Convention based on scientific knowledge concerning the various species of animals;

(3) Aware also of the established practice in the implementation of the principles of animal welfare set out in Articles 3 - 7 of the Convention;

(4) Aware that the basic requirements for the health and welfare of livestock consist of good stockmanship, husbandry methods appropriate to the biological need of the animals and suitable environmental factors, so that the conditions under which geese are kept fulfil the needs for appropriate nutrition and methods of feeding, freedom of movement, physical comfort; the need to perform natural behaviour in connection with getting up, lying down, resting and sleeping postures, wing-flapping, walking, running, bathing, preening, eating, drinking, defecating, adequate social contact and egg-laying; the need for protection against adverse climatic conditions, injury, fear and distress, infestation and disease or behavioural disorder; as well as other essential needs as may be identified by established practice or scientific knowledge;

(5) Concerned that the developments in breeding and biotechnology shall not adversely affect the health and welfare of the domestic geese;

(6) Bearing in mind that it is an obligation of the Committee to reconsider any recommendation when relevant new knowledge is available and therefore wishing to encourage the continuation of research by all Parties with the object of making optimum use of new techniques to ensure that the needs of the geese are met and hence that their health and welfare are good;

(7) Considering that, in the light of established experience and scientific knowledge about the biological needs of geese, some methods of husbandry at present in commercial use, often fail to meet all essential needs and hence result in poor welfare;

(9) Bearing in mind that the environment and management have to fulfil the animal's biological requirements rather than trying to "adapt" the animals to the environment by procedures such as mutilations;

(11) Considering that further research on the health and welfare of geese should be encouraged and that the relevant provisions in the Recommendation shall be reviewed in the light of new scientific evidence;

(12) Has adopted the following Recommendation on the keeping of domestic geese:

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1

1. This Recommendation shall apply to domestic geese (Anser anser f. domesticus, Anser cygnoides f. domesticus) and their crossbreeds kept for the production of meat, for breeding or for any other farming purpose.

2. Special provisions contained in the Appendix to this Recommendation constitute an integral part thereof.

Article 2

No goose taken from the wild shall be kept for farming purposes.

BIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE DOMESTIC GOOSE

Article 3

When considering husbandry practices the biological characteristics of the domestic geese presented below should be borne in mind.

a. The Greylag-goose (Anser anser) is considered to be the ancestor of domestic goose breeds of European origin while breeds of Asiatic origin descend from the Swan Goose (Anser cygnoides). Breeds of Asiatic origin which are characterised by a knob at the base of the upper beak are believed to be more heat resistant than those of European origin. In most breeds, wild as well as domestic, differences between winter and summer plumage and between male and female are minor. Geese are probably the first poultry to be domesticated, originally they were mainly kept on marginal grazing land. Geese are kept primarily for the production of meat, down and feathers but also for ornamental purposes, and at least historically also to keep watch.

b. Geese are gregarious birds, and in the wild they congregate in large flocks that stay together except during the breeding season where they develop a monogamous bond and disperse into pairs. Wild geese almost exclusively mate in open water, and copulation is preceded by a "dance" where the goose and gander swim side by side and perform characteristic

diving movements with their heads and necks. Domestic geese may be mated with four to six females to one gander, and it is important that the flocks are established as soon as possible. Although swimming water seems to encourage domestic geese to mate they can mate satisfactorily without it. The nests may be placed in small groups, the wild greylag goose lays on average 4-6 eggs which are incubated 27-28 days by the female alone. During the incubation period the gander stays close to the nest, and when the goslings a few days old leave the nest they are cared for by both parents, at this time small family groups may be formed. The gander will aggressively protect goslings and nest and an intruder will be met by hissing and threatening attitudes or may be attacked.

c. Compared to other poultry geese have a long life span. They learn quickly and have a good memory and a well developed sight and sense of smell and hearing. Communication by a variety of vocalisations is an important part of their behaviour. Wild geese migrate over long distances and they walk and run efficiently. The ability to fly is reduced in many domestic breeds especially the heavy ones and very fat individuals may even have difficulty in walking.

d. Adult geese are herbivores while goslings eat a variety of food-items including different small invertebrates. They prefer to forage on open land where they seek short-growing grass or plants of a tender quality. Even though they spend more time grazing than swimming water is an important factor in their grooming behaviour. Important elements of bathing are the emersion of the head and shaking water from the head over the body.

e. Geese spend considerable time performing complex preening behaviour. After bathing geese carry out a variety of shaking, cleaning and snapping movements to remove water and foreign bodies and to arrange feathers. An elaborate sequence of movements is then carried out to distribute oil on feathers from the uropygial gland above the tail. This is necessary for waterproofing and heat regulation.

f. Domestic geese have from their wild ancestors retained a variety of the behavioural patterns of which social activities and the possibility to use water in their grooming ritual seem especially important. Domestic geese have also retained many anti-predator responses such as freezing, alarmcalling, threatening, attacking or attempts to run away from danger, and vigorous struggling if caught. Such behavioural responses may be associated with, or replaced by, emergency physiological responses. As the social structure of the family group is missing in intensive rearing systems and as goslings are easily imprinted on any item or person correct handling especially during the first days of their lives is important. In very barren environments which leave the geese little possibility to express their food-seeking and otherwise investigative pecking there is a risk that they direct the pecking towards other birds in the flock.

STOCKMANSHIP AND INSPECTION

Article 4

1. Any person who owns geese, or for the time being has geese under his or her control, and every person engaged in the keeping of geese shall, according to their responsibilities, ensure that every reasonable step is taken to safeguard the health and welfare of the birds.

2. The geese shall be cared for by a sufficient number of personnel with adequate knowledge of geese and of the husbandry system used to be able to:

(a) recognise whether or not the birds are in good health;

(b) understand the significance of behavioural changes;

The stockman must be aware of the role of animal welfare in the daily work with birds. The issuing of a certificate of competence for the stockman by the competent authorities should be considered.

3. Geese shall be caught and handled only by competent trained staff, working under the direct supervision of the stockman and in accordance with Article 19.

4. The size or density of the group should not be too large; a large group shall not be set up unless it is reasonably certain that the stockman can safeguard the welfare of the birds.

Article 5

1. In order to develop a positive relationship between man and bird, there shall be frequent, calm and close approach from an early age such that the bird is not unduly frightened.

2. Young geese should be given appropriate experience of management practices (e.g. particular feeding and watering systems) and environmental conditions (e.g. natural light, sufficient water to fulfil biological requirements, litter) to enable them to adapt to the husbandry systems which they will encounter later in life.

Article 6

Geese bred for farming purposes shall not be used to achieve any other goal, including public spectacles or demonstrations, if such use is likely to be detrimental to their health and welfare.

Article 7

A source of light strong enough for each bird to be seen clearly shall be available for the purpose of this inspection. Such inspections shall be made independently of any automatic surveillance equipment. In addition to the thorough inspection the flock or group should be checked at other times during the day.

3. Individual examination shall be made of those birds for which the overall inspection indicates this to be necessary.

Article 8

1. At the inspection it must be borne in mind that the healthy bird has sounds and activity appropriate to its age, sex, breed or type, clear bright eyes, good posture, vigorous movements and vocalisation if unduly disturbed, clean healthy skin, good plumage, well-formed shanks and feet, effective walking, bathing and preening, and active feeding and drinking behaviour.

2. If the geese are apparently not in good health, or if they are showing obvious signs of behavioural aberrations, the stockman shall take steps without delay to establish the cause and shall take appropriate remedial action. If the immediate action taken by the stockman is not effective, a veterinarian must be consulted, and, if necessary, expert advice must be sought on other technical factors involved. If the cause is traced to an environmental factor within the enclosure or accommodation which it is not essential to remedy immediately this shall be corrected when the enclosure or accommodation is emptied and before the next batch of geese is put in.

3. Injured, sick or distressed birds shall be treated without delay and if necessary separated from the rest of the flock in suitable accommodation available for this purpose or killed in accordance with Article 24.

ENCLOSURES, BUILDINGS AND EQUIPMENT

Article 9

1. Professional advice on health and welfare aspects should be sought when a new enclosure or accommodation for geese is planned or when existing enclosures or accommodation are modified in accordance with legislation in force.

2. New methods of husbandry and new concepts of equipment or accommodation for geese should be comprehensively tested from the point of view of health and welfare and when tests are undertaken, shall not be put into commercial use unless found to be satisfactory, in accordance with a procedure to be laid down by the competent authority.

Article 10

When new accommodation for geese is planned, a suitable site shall be selected taking into consideration the risk from outside environmental factors such as noise, light, vibration, atmospheric pollution and from predators. Where appropriate, advantage shall be taken of natural features to provide shelter from predators and from adverse weather conditions.

Article 11

1. The design, construction and maintenance of enclosures, buildings and equipment for geese shall be such that they:

- allow the fulfilment of essential biological requirements of geese, in particular in respect of water, and the maintenance of good health;
- avoid barren environments;
- do not cause traumatic injuries to the birds;
- limit the risk of disease, disorders manifested by behavioural changes, injuries caused by birds to each other and, as far as possible, contamination of the birds by bad water quality;
- avoid sharp corners, projections and materials which may be harmful to the birds;
- provide protection from predators and adverse weather conditions, and, as far as possible, from rodents and wild birds;
- allow for easy maintenance of good conditions of hygiene, air and water quality;
- allow, without difficulty, a thorough inspection of all birds;
- facilitate management of the birds.

2. Access to an outside run and water for bathing are necessary for geese, as water birds, to fulfil their biological requirements. Where such access is not possible, the geese must be provided with water facilities sufficient in number and so designed to allow water to cover the head and be taken up by the beak so that the geese can shake water over the body without difficulty. The geese should be allowed to dip their heads under water.

However, goslings under the age of 3 weeks reared artificially must be protected from getting soaked and kept away from bathing water because during this period their down feathers are insufficiently oiled.

3. Water facilities should be constructed over a well drained area and shall always be kept clean.

4. Feeding and watering equipment shall be designed, constructed, placed, operated and maintained in such a way that:

- it minimises contamination of food and water;
- all birds have sufficient access to it to avoid undue competition between individuals;'
- it does not cause or result in injury to birds;
- it operates in all weather conditions;
- the provision of water and the consumption of feed can be controlled.

5. Young geese must have free access to shelter at all times and all geese shall have access to shelter against adverse weather conditions. Buildings in which birds are confined shall be constructed and maintained in such a way as to minimise any risk of fire. Materials should be fire resistant or treated with flame retardants; all appropriate measures shall be taken to allow for immediate action in order to protect the birds, e.g. installing an alarm system and elaborating an evacuation plan for the birds. Electrical equipment and wiring shall be well maintained.

6. Where geese are housed, floors shall be of a suitable design and material and not cause discomfort, distress or injury to the birds. The floor shall include an area sufficient to enable all birds to rest simultaneously and covered with an appropriate bedding material.

7. Housing systems for geese shall allow the birds to:

- stand with a normal posture,
- turn around without difficulty,
- defecate showing normal movements,
- flap the wings,
- show normal preening movements,
- perform normal social interactions,
- carry out normal feeding and drinking movements.

8. In the case of geese kept for breeding, an adequate number of nesting facilities of a suitable size and design shall be available.

Nest boxes should be placed on the floor. Resting areas shall not be so high above floor level that birds have difficulty or risk injury in using them. If nest boxes are not used adequate amounts of straw or the like shall be placed in nesting areas.

MANAGEMENT

Article 12

1. When considering the establishment or replacement of a flock, the choice of the strain of bird should be made with the aim of reducing health and welfare problems.

2. Measures shall be taken to minimise aggression and stress, especially when new groups are formed but also to ensure that stability of the group is maintained. Breeding flocks should be established as early in the autumn as possible.

3. The space allowance for birds shall be such that their demands on the whole environment, their age, sex, live weight, health and their need to move around freely and to perform normal social behaviour of the species be satisfied. The size of the group shall be such that it does not lead to behavioural or other disorders or injuries.

4. Adequate litter shall be provided and maintained, as far as possible, in a dry, friable state in order to help the birds to keep themselves clean and to enrich the environment.

5. Frequent checks shall be made to ensure that the environment is not infested by parasites or other harmful organisms.

6. Routine or systematic use of drugs to compensate for poor hygienic conditions or management practices shall not be allowed.

Article 13

1. When geese are kept indoors without free access to an outdoor enclosure, the accommodation shall be kept so that the ambient temperature, the air velocity, the relative humidity, the dust level and other atmospheric conditions do not adversely affect the health or welfare of the birds. Ventilation capacities of the buildings shall take account of the number of birds in the buildings in order to maintain adequate temperatures to prevent heat stress, in particular during hot weather. Moreover, appropriate measures, such as cooling of buildings, shall be taken when the weather is exceptionally hot.

2. The ventilation system, and facilities for storing and handling litter and manure shall be designed, maintained and managed to prevent the exposure of birds to gases such as ammonia, hydrogen sulphide, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide in concentrations which cause discomfort to the birds or which are detrimental to their health.

3. Where the health and welfare of geese depend on automatic or other mechanical systems of ventilation, an effective alarm system shall be installed and arrangements shall be made to ensure continued adequate ventilation in the event of power or equipment failure.

4. Where buildings need to be locked, arrangements shall be made to allow rapid entry in case of emergency.

Article 14

1. Young goslings should not be subjected to conditions which cause either panting due to overheating or prolonged huddling and feather-ruffling due to underheating.

2. During long periods of sub-zero temperatures under free range conditions a freely accessible shelter must be provided for geese. The shelter shall be large enough to contain all birds at the same time, be maintained at moderate temperatures and contain suitable bedding.

4. If geese are to be driven from one place to another this shall be done quietly and slowly.

Article 15

Article 16

1. All buildings shall have light levels sufficient to allow all geese to see one another and to be seen clearly, to investigate their surroundings visually and to show normal levels of activity. As far as practicable, natural light should be provided. In this case, light apertures should be arranged in such a way that light is distributed evenly within the accommodation.

3. A twilight period should be given in the dimming of lights in order to avoid disturbance or injury.

Article 17

1. All geese shall have appropriate access to adequate, nutritious, balanced and hygienic feed each day and to adequate supplies of water of suitable quality at all times. In the case of birds which have difficulty in feeding or drinking, appropriate measures shall be taken in accordance with Article 8 paragraphs 2 and 3. Methods of feeding and feed additives which cause distress, injury or disease to the geese or may result in development of physical or physiological conditions detrimental to their health and welfare shall not be permitted.

2. Sudden changes in the type or quantity of feed and feeding procedures shall be avoided except in case of emergency.

This shall not apply in the case of therapeutic or prophylactic treatment administered on the instructions of a veterinarian.

Article 18

Article 19

1. Collection times shall be co-ordinated with production requirements at the slaughterhouse in order to limit the time birds are held in transport containers/crates.

2. Geese shall not be entirely deprived of food or water before transport, except in the case of transport to a slaughterhouse, which is close to the point of production.

3. Before de-populating enclosures or houses, any hindrance from fixtures and fittings, especially sharp edges or protrusions must be removed. Particular care shall be taken when moving birds within or from an enclosure or house to ensure that no bird is injured by the equipment or the handling process.
Where possible, birds shall be encouraged to walk and handling reduced to a minimum.

4. Care must be taken in catching birds in order to avoid panic and subsequent injury to and smothering of the birds, for example by reducing the intensity of the light or using a blue light.

7. The distance birds are carried shall be minimised, for example by bringing transport containers/crates as close to the birds as possible.

9. Every effort shall be made to encourage the development of improved systems for handling large numbers of birds.

Article 20

1. Those parts of the accommodation with which the geese come into contact shall be thoroughly cleaned, and, where appropriate, disinfected every time the accommodation has been emptied and before new birds are brought in. Accommodations, enclosures and all equipment, including facilities for providing water, shall be kept satisfactorily clean as long as birds are present.

2. Any dead bird must be removed from enclosures and shelters promptly and hygienically in accordance with existing legislation.

Article 21

CHANGES OF GENOTYPE OR PHENOTYPE

Article 22

2. In breeding programmes, particular attention shall be paid to criteria conducive to the improvement of birds' health and welfare, as well as to production criteria. Therefore, the conservation or development of breeds or strains of animals which would limit or reduce animal welfare problems shall be encouraged.

Article 23

1. For the purpose of this Recommendation, "mutilation" means a procedure carried out for other than therapeutic purposes and resulting in damage to or the loss of a sensitive part of the body or the alteration of bone structure, or causing a significant amount of pain or distress.

2. The mutilation of geese shall be prohibited, with the exception of tagging for identification purposes which must be done in such a way as to avoid unnecessary distress. Methods causing less distress than tagging shall be promoted.

3. Feathers, including down shall not be plucked from live birds.

KILLING

Article 24

1. If geese are ill or injured to such an extent that treatment is no longer feasible and transport would cause additional suffering, they must be killed on the spot. This must be done without causing undue pain, agitation or other forms of distress and without delay by a person experienced in the techniques of killing unless in emergency when such a person is not immediately available.

2. The methods used shall either:

a. cause immediate loss of consciousness and death, or

b. rapidly render the goose insensible to pain and distress, until death supervenes, or

c. cause the death of a bird which is anaesthetised or effectively stunned.

Drowning and suffocation shall not be permitted. As geese are not as susceptible to carbon dioxide as certain other birds, the use of carbon dioxide shall be avoided.

Methods which may be used for killing unwanted goslings and embryos in hatcheries are set out in the Appendix.

3. The person responsible for the killing shall ensure that for each goose the requirements of paragraph 2 are fulfilled and that the bird is dead.

SUPPLEMENTARY PROVISION

Article 25

1. Countries allowing foie gras production shall encourage research on its welfare aspects and on alternative methods which do not include gavage.

2. Until new scientific evidence on alternative methods and their welfare aspects is available, the production of foie gras shall be carried out only where it is current practice and then only in accordance with standards laid down in domestic law.
In any case, the competent authorities shall monitor this type of production to ensure the implementation of the provisions of the Recommendation.

3. The Standing Committee shall be informed annually of the results obtained and measures taken to improve housing and management procedures and control production.

FINAL PROVISION

Article 26

APPENDIX

KILLING OF UNWANTED GOSLINGS AND EMBRYOS IN HATCHERIES

1. Goslings which are not intended for rearing shall be killed as soon as possible.

2. Goslings should be killed by using an apparatus which contains mechanically operated killing blades approved for this purpose in accordance with national legislation, designed and operated in such a way as to ensure that all goslings are killed immediately even if they are handled in large numbers.

Measures shall be taken to ensure rapid death and to avoid suffocation under other goslings by putting birds in a single layer and monitoring gas concentrations.

RECOMMENDATION CONCERNING FUR ANIMALS

adopted by the Standing Committee
at its 37^th meeting on 22 June 1999 *

This Recommendation replaces the Recommendation concerning fur animals
adopted on 19 October 1990
____________

PREAMBLE

The Standing Committee of the European Convention on the Protection of Animals kept for Farming Purposes,

Having regard to its responsibility under Article 9 of the Convention for the elaboration and adoption of Recommendations to the Parties containing detailed provisions for the implementation of the principles set out in Chapter I of the Convention based on scientific knowledge concerning the various species of animals;

Aware that in contrast to the animals which over thousands of generations have been kept for farming purposes, animals kept for the production of fur belong to species which have only been farmed more recently and which have had less opportunity to adapt to farm conditions;

Concerned about the application of the principles of animal welfare set out in Articles
3 - 7 of the Convention;

Concerned that developments in breeding and biotechnology shall not adversely affect the health and welfare of fur animals;

Considering that in the light of established experience and scientific knowledge about the biological needs of each of the various species of fur animals, including those satisfied by showing certain behaviours, systems of husbandry at present in commercial use often fail to meet all the needs the fulfilment of which is essential for the animals' welfare;

Bearing in mind that the environment and management have to fulfil the animal's biological needs rather than trying to "adapt" the animals to the environment;

Considering therefore that strong and continuous efforts have to be made to adapt existing systems and develop satisfactory new systems so that these needs can be met for any species kept for farming purposes;

Aware that the basic requirements for the health and welfare of farmed fur animals consist of:

a. good husbandry and stockmanship;

_________
* In accordance with Article 9, paragraph 3 of the Convention, this Recommendation entered into force on 22 December 1999.

b. a suitably stimulating environment appropriate to meet the species-specific needs as deduced from studies of the animals in nature and in farm conditions, including adequate freedom of movement, physical comfort and adequate opportunity for grooming, eating, drinking, territorial marking, social contact or solitude, climbing and swimming;

c. protection against adverse climatic conditions, injury, infestation and disease or behavioural disorders;

and other requirements as may be subsequently identified by experience or scientific knowledge.

Aware, however, that scientific evidence available on the welfare requirements of fur animals is not sufficient for the elaboration of detailed provisions for the implementation of all principles set out in Chapter I of the Convention;

Resolved therefore

a. to encourage further research on the welfare of fur animals, and

b. to review the relevant provisions in the Recommendation in the light of new scientific evidence;

Has adopted the following Recommendation concerning fur animals:

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1

1. This Recommendation shall apply to all animals kept primarily for their furs, in intensive as well as extensive farming systems.

2. Nothing in this Recommendation shall affect the implementation of other instruments for the protection of animals or for the conservation of threatened wild species.

3. Animals born in the wild shall not be kept in fur farm conditions.

4. No animal shall be kept for its fur if:

a. the conditions of this Recommendation cannot be met, or if

b. the animal belongs to a species whose members, despite these conditions being met, cannot adapt to captivity without welfare problems.

5. Special provisions contained in the Appendices to this Recommendation constitute an integral part thereof.

BIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF FUR ANIMALS

Article 2

When considering husbandry practices, the following biological characteristics of the species should be borne in mind since fur animals kept on farms retain characteristics of wild animals.

1. Mink (Mustela vison)

a. The mink which is farmed for its fur is a North American species which is not very closely related to the European mink. However, feral populations of American mink, escaped from or descended from animals on fur farms, exist in many European countries. Mink were first kept on fur farms in Europe about 70 years ago but the first fur farms in Northern America existed about 30 years before that.

b. Under natural conditions the mink live close to streams and rivers, or sometimes near lakes or coasts, but otherwise they are generalists as regard habitat. In the typical river environment, mink have a range of about 2 km along the river and a few hundred metres either side of it. When the water is frozen and when food is not plentiful they may range over greater distances. Most periods of activity occur during the night, the morning or the evening. Suitable natural refuges are used for up to 85 % of the time when food is readily available.

c. Mink survive well in cold conditions. They spend part of their time in water when hunting and part on the land, walking, bounding, rearing on their hind legs and climbing on rocks or trees. They are anatomically adapted for this life style. The dense fur provides very good insulation on land and in water. The feet are partially webbed and are used when swimming and diving.

d. Mink are carnivores with a high protein requirement. They are opportunistic feeders. They live on aquatic or terrestrial prey, depending on the availability of the food items. The diet of mink in Europe is 50-80 % aquatic animals with fish making up the largest part and invertebrates and amphibians comprising the remainder. Common terrestrial prey species include rabbits, rats, mice and voles. In frozen conditions the aquatic food is inaccessible and in North America, the principal diet of many mink is the musk-rat.

e. Adult mink are solitary, coming together briefly only at mating time. They are highly territorial: home ranges are regularly patrolled and maintained by scent-marking and aggression. When territory overlap does occur, it is never between animals of the same sex. Adult males leave their territories in spring and cover great distances searching for females. In autumn, young mink disperse in search of vacant territories.

2. Polecat, ferret, fitch (Mustela putorius)

a. The polecat is a widespread Eurasian species which lives in open woodland and hilly areas. The polecat's territory may be anything between 100 ha to 2500 ha where food is sparse. The animal is nocturnal and spends the day in a den. In the summer it may spend all its time in the open air but still be inactive for extended periods. The domesticated form is the ferret which has been used for hundreds of years to catch or chase rabbits, etc. It is changed a little anatomically from the wild polecat in that the head is a little smaller. Many ferrets are albino.

b. Polecats are terrestrial animals, which walk, bound, rear on their hind legs and climb on rocks and trees. They produce a foetid secretion from the anal gland, which is used for marking territory and which makes the animal strong smelling to man. Ferrets produce fewer odours.

c. Polecats are carnivores requiring a high-protein diet. They eat birds, mammals and insects so foraging behaviour involves searching, chasing and manipulation of materials in the environment with extensive use of the senses of smell, vision and hearing.

d. The polecat is a solitary species, defending a territory vigorously against intruders.

e. The cross between the wild polecat and the ferret is sometimes called a fitch or fitchet.

3. Red fox (Vulpes vulpes)

The red fox can have a variety of colours from red to silver. However, the silver colour variant is rare in the wild.

a. The red fox is found in most parts of Eurasia, North America and North Africa and in Australia in habitats as diverse as boreal forest, open agricultural land, mixed woodland and urban areas. Apart from certain islands, the species is absent only from very dry areas, some very cold areas, and tropical regions. Large scale farming has occurred for more than fifty years.

b. Under natural conditions, red foxes are active for long periods during the night, morning and evening, but spend the day concealed in a thicket or hole in the ground (earth). They may travel great distances. The daily mean is 6 km. Foxes dig their own earth or take over a hole dug by another animal. They can run fast, jump well and swim strongly. Their olfactory, visual and auditory senses are good.

c. The diet of the red foxes consists mainly of rodents and lagomorphs. In some areas the major component of the diet is earthworms and some carrion, insects and birds are eaten. Fruit, berries and other vegetable material may be eaten by foxes but the vast majority of the diet is animal in origin.

d. The red fox has a variable social organisation since they may be solitary or live in a group. Individual or groups defend a territory or have a home range which overlaps little with the home ranges of others. Territories are scent marked using one or more of the glandular or waste product based sources of individually recognisable odour.

e. In the wild, vixens will sometimes give birth to and rear their cubs in close proximity to one another but more often they give birth in isolation from other animals and drive other foxes away from their cubs. Subordinate vixens may fail to breed when close to other females. Sexually mature female foxes without cubs may assist in caring for cubs of dominant females.

4. Arctic fox (Alopex lagopus)

Blue fox is the name commonly used for farmed arctic fox.

a. The arctic fox is distributed throughout the northern polar regions and is adapted specifically to living in cold climates. Typical habitats are tundra and the inter-tidal zone of the sea shore. Large scale farming has occurred for more than fifty years.

b. Under natural conditions, arctic foxes are active mainly during the night. They may use an excavated den dug by them, but arctic foxes sometimes do not have a fixed home site, even when rearing the young. Arctic foxes can travel very long distances, often 10-20 km in a day. They can run fast and swim strongly. Their olfactory, visual and auditory senses are good and they are very tolerant of low temperatures.

c. The food of arctic foxes is principally animal in origin although fruits may be taken. They hunt singly for rodents, birds, invertebrates, seal pups, fish and carrion. They often follow polar bears, wolves and humans in order to scavenge from their leftover.

d. The arctic foxes may be monogamous, sometimes mating for life. But the arctic foxes have a flexible social system. Some males will mate with more than one female, and a family group may contain young of the previous year. Young are cared for by both parents. In tundra habitats family groups are more widely distributed than in coastal regions. Territories are scent marked.

e. Breeding occurs once per year and large litters are often produced if food is plentiful. The vixen usually gives birth in a burrow but may leave it soon after. The sites for giving birth are usually well separated from one another. Young foxes leave their parents' home range in the autumn, and if food is short, may disperse over long distances.

5. Coypu, nutria (Myocastor coypus)

a. This is a South American rodent but populations originating from fur farm escapes are established in several countries. They live in marshes and on the edges of lakes and sluggish streams. In general they prefer fresh water but a few occur in brackish water. All coypu are largely aquatic, spending much of their waking time in water. They commonly make platforms of vegetation where they sit and groom or feed during non-swimming intervals. They also construct burrows close to water which may be complex systems, 15 m or more in length with chambers that hold nests of vegetation. They make runways on land and utilise an area within about 180 m of the den. The population density ranges from 2.7 - 16.0 per hectare. Juvenile coypus are largely absent from the late winter population. Synchronisation of litters in the spring

results in a peak of juveniles in early summer. Population densities peak in November with a significant female bias (1M : 1.6 F). Females are resident longer than males. Coypu are often seen by day but are most active at night.

b. Coypu are well adapted to an aquatic life having webbed feet, nostrils positioned high on the head to facilitate breathing when resting in water, vibrissae around the nose to facilitate location of food and other objects in water. They have dense fur on belly and teats situated high up on the sides. They move clumsily on land.

c. The diet of the coypu is mainly vegetable material of which roots make up a major part. They dig for food as well as to construct burrows in which to hide. They also graze along shores.

d. Coypus may mature sexually at four months of age, but the reaching of maturity depends on size rather than on age. Due to lower food supply coypus born in the winter take longer to grow and reach sexual maturity. Coypus have a polygamous mating system. Females usually come into heat every 24 to 26 days and stay in heat for 1 to 4 days; Social groups are dominated

by an alpha male and alpha female with the male subordinate to the female except at mating. Female offspring occupy ranges that partially overlap the maternal range, and exclude postpubertal males from the clan. Female coypus breed throughout the year and sometimes conceive during a postpartum oestrus. Gestation is about 130 days, mean litter size at birth is 5-6. Precocial young are able to survive after only 5 days of nursing despite an average lactation of about 6 weeks. On the average only 60 % of the embryos survive to be born. Young females may abort small litters of predominantly female embryos, when expectations of larger litters are high.

6. Chinchilla (Chinchilla chinchilla, Chinchilla brevicaudata and Chinchilla lanigera)

a. The chinchilla belongs to the order of the rodents (Rodentiae) and to the suborder, which includes porcupines (Hystricomorphae). The family of the chinchillas (Chinchillidae) consists of two species: the short-tailed chinchilla (Chinchilla chinchilla) and the long-tailed chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera). The smaller, short-tailed chinchilla (C. chinchilla brevicaudata) and larger short-tailed chinchilla or king chinchilla (C. chinchilla chinchilla) are considered subspecies.

The two species differ in size, weight, length and gestation duration. Both species are kept commercially in the Northern Hemisphere but most are C. lanigera.

The chinchilla lives in South American Andes in a climate characterised by great changes in temperature between day and night, and low humidity. The natural habitat is in dry areas with rocky slopes and sparse overgrowth.

b. Chinchillas are active at dusk and at night. During the day the animal retreats into rocky crevices and hollows. Although chinchillas are generally considered to be herbivores, they are known on occasion to eat insect larvae. Like all rodents chinchillas eat their own soft droppings.

This coprophagy sustains their need for vitamins B and D. They have the ability to extract moisture from dewdrops and plant juices, e.g. of cacti. The animals clean their fur by bathing in the dry sand of the mountain slopes and plains.

c. Chinchilla eyes are large and well adapted to nocturnal life. Their sense of hearing is very well developed. Their large mobile external ears also serve as a temperature regulator. High humidity is detrimental to them. The olfactory and tactile senses are of great importance to these animals.

Chinchillas have well-developed hind-legs which enable them to move with great speed and to perform standing jumps of more than one metre in height covering a distance over two metres. The front-legs are shorter and weaker and have mainly a supporting and grabbing function.

The long incisors grow continuously. Therefore they have to gnaw a great deal to keep them short.

The pelt hair grows in tufts from one hair root with up to 60 hairs per root. If a chinchilla is suddenly handled, part of the fur may come away. This remarkable phenomenon enables the animals to escape their natural predators such as birds of prey. It takes several months for the fur to grow back. Chinchillas do not have sweat-glands.

d. Chinchillas used to live in colonies consisting of 100 animals or more but the species are now so rare that such large colonies are not seen. Little is known about the social structure of these colonies. In the remaining groups the animals live mainly in a family unit consisting of couples with their mature offspring. It is likely that after they reach sexual maturity the young female remains in the colony while the young male is driven away.

e. The cycle of the female varies from 22-90 days depending on the season, the presence of a male or other females in heat. Heat lasts for 3-5 days in which the female is receptive for
10-15 hours. The female produces 1-3 young per litter. One to three days after dropping a litter the female is in heat again and can successfully be served. Chinchillas do not build proper nests for giving birth. The young are precocial, i.e. they are born with a pelt and open eyes and are able to leave the birth location unaided within hours of birth.

Although the mother has three pairs of teats, only two pairs are functional. After approximately seven weeks the young are weaned. They reach sexual maturity at the age of
4-6 months. At 12-18 months they are physically full-grown. In captivity they can reach an age of 18-22 years.

f. They threaten opponents by rearing and growling often accompanied by shaking of the head. Barking is a warning signal. Their initial reaction to such a signal is to freeze. If the impending danger continues they will flee. Warning, barking and fleeing are accompanied by the release of a strong smelling odour from the anal pouch. Manifestation of aggressive behaviour are jumping and spraying urine, usually a female reaction, kicking with the hind-legs and biting.

7. Raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides)

a. The raccoon dog, a native of eastern Asia was introduced to North-Western Russia between 1927 and 1953: from these initial 9100 animals, it has spread throughout Eastern and Northern Europe. The population in Finland is relatively stable. Mortality is highest amongst juveniles and the maximum life span appears to be 8 years. Farm rearing of the species started in 1972 from individuals captured from the wild.

b. The raccoon dog is fox-like in size and general shape, with smaller ears, and a shorter tail and legs. It has a head and body length of 55 to 65 cm and a tail length of 15 to 17.5 cm. Its body weight fluctuates seasonally from a minimum of 3 to 5 kg in June to a maximum of
8 to 12 kg in November in nature and on farms, even with ad libitum feeding. There is no sexual dimorphism in body size. The raccoon dog has long and dense fur on the back, but its ventral surfaces are less well insulated. Its chest and throat are black enabling heat gain from the sun even at sub-zero temperatures.

c. The raccoon dog is an omnivore. Plant material, including grain, berries and fruits are consumed in all seasons, as are small mammals, particularly voles and shrews, birds, carrion and other waste. Other foods include insects, especially beetles, reptiles, amphibians and fish. These omnivorous habits mean that population density is unaffected by fluctuations in vole cycles.

d. The raccoon dog is mainly nocturnal or crepuscular. During the day it may lie in a den or under some other form of cover, such as reeds, hollow trees or scrub. When using dens, either during breeding season or winter inactivity, it may either take abandoned fox or badger earths, or excavate its own. Foraging and exploratory behaviour involves manipulating objects, entering tunnels.

e. The raccoon dog may not truly hibernate but it does become inactive and spends much time in the den during harsh winters. It may leave the den during mild winters. Its omnivorous diet, ability to accumulate large fat reserves, and inactivity during winter helps the female to be in good condition for the breeding season. In studies in Southern Finland and Russia, raccoon dogs produced about 50 % more cubs than red foxes. Most females breed but sexual maturation, growth of young, proportion of reproducing females and cub mortality are strongly affected by food availability in relation to population density, and climatic conditions. The male plays a role in parental care, minding the cubs while the mother forages, and the family may sleep together in the den. Weaning is accomplished at 45 to 60 days of age, although cubs do not necessarily leaver their natal territory and may spend the winter with their mother.

f. The home range discovered by radio-tracking in Finland was 9.5 km², with a core area (85 % utilisation) of 3.4 km². This did not vary seasonally or annually. The core areas of adjacent pairs do not usually overlap during cub-rearing but in autumn there is overlap. The raccoon dog is reported to be monogamous, the long-term pair bond or the family being the basic social unit, but is a social species with a weak dominance hierarchy amongst the members of a family. All group members typically move together along certain paths, eat together, rest together with close body contact, and have a common latrine. Polygamous mating is successfully practised in captivity.

STOCKMANSHIP AND INSPECTION OF FUR ANIMALS

Article 3

1. Any person who owns fur animals, or for the time being has fur animals under his or her control, and every person engaged in the keeping, breeding or killing of fur animals shall, according to their responsibilities, ensure that every reasonable step is taken to safeguard the health and welfare of the species of fur animals concerned.

2. The fur animals shall be cared for by a sufficient number of personnel with adequate knowledge of the species of fur animals concerned, the husbandry system and the killing facilities used. In particular the stockman shall be able to:

(a) recognise whether or not the animals are in good health;
(b) understand the significance of behavioural changes;
(c) appreciate the suitability of the total environment for the fur animals health and welfare.

The stockman must be aware of the role of animal welfare in the daily work with the species of fur animals concerned and he must be able to recognise whether the total environment is adequate to keep them healthy and provides for the fulfilment of their biological needs, including those to show certain behaviours. The issuing of a certificate of competence for the stockman by the competent authorities should be considered.

3. In order to develop positive relationship between man and animal, there should be appropriate careful handling and other contact from an early age.

Article 4

1. All animals shall be thoroughly inspected at least once a day in the least disturbing manner for the particular species, and in so far as this would not unnecessarily disturb nests. When necessary a source of light shall be available for this purpose. Such inspections shall be made independently of any automatic surveillance equipment.

2. For thorough inspection of the animals, special attention shall be paid to bodily condition, condition of hair, skin, eyes, ears, tail, legs and feet. Healthy animals have sounds, activity, movements and posture appropriate to their species, age, sex, breed or physiological condition. Signs of good health include: clear bright eyes, good posture, clean and, depending on species and season, shiny coat, sound feet and legs, normal feeding, drinking, sucking or suckling behaviour if appropriate, normal getting up, lying down, and resting behaviour and otherwise normal movements, posture and behaviour.

3. Thorough inspection does not mean that each animal has to be examined individually. Individual examination is to be made only of those animals for which the overall inspection indicates this as being necessary.

Article 5

1. At the inspection it must be borne in mind that signs of ill health include listlessness, loss of appetite, discharge from the nostrils or eyes, excessive salivation, persistent coughing, swollen joints, lameness, scouring and behavioural aberrations. Attention shall also be paid to the presence of external parasites, to the condition of droppings and to feed and water consumption.

2. If animals are apparently not in good health, or if they are showing obvious signs of behavioural aberrations, the person responsible for them shall take steps without delay to establish the cause and shall take appropriate remedial action. If the immediate action taken by the person responsible is not effective either a veterinarian must be consulted or, if necessary, other expert advice must be sought.

If the cause is traced to a factor which it is not essential or possible to remedy immediately, this should be corrected when the accommodation is emptied or in any case within 12 months.

3. Injured, sick or distressed fur animals shall be treated without delay and, if necessary, be separated in suitable accommodation for this purpose or killed in accordance with Article 22.

Article 6

Fur animals bred for farming purposes shall not be used to achieve any other goal, including public spectacles or demonstrations, if such use is likely to be detrimental to their health and welfare.

ENCLOSURES, HOUSING AND EQUIPMENT

Article 7

1. Professional advice on health and welfare aspects should be sought when new enclosures, housing or equipment are to be constructed or existing enclosures, housing or equipment are to be modified.

2. New methods of husbandry and new design of equipment or accommodation for fur animals should be comprehensively tested from the point of view of health and welfare and, when tests are undertaken, shall not be put into commercial use unless found to be satisfactory in accordance with a procedure laid down by the competent authorities.

Article 8

When new accommodation for fur animals is planned, a suitable site shall be selected, taking into consideration the risk of outside environmental factors such as noise, vibration and atmospheric pollution, as well as the facilities to fulfil species-specific needs for certain environmental facilities such as water for swimming for certain species.
Full advantage shall be taken of natural features to provide shelter from adverse climatic conditions.

Article 9

1. The animals shall be provided with an environment which takes into consideration their biological characteristics as established on the basis of knowledge and experience from nature and from the farm situation.

2. The design, construction and maintenance of enclosures, buildings and equipment for fur animals must be such that they provide shelter from adverse climatic conditions, fulfil the animal's biological needs, including those to carry out certain behaviours, maintain good conditions of hygiene and that they limit the risk of disease, disorders manifested by behavioural changes, traumatic injuries to the animals, or injuries caused by the animals to each other, and respect the security conditions which are necessary for fire prevention and protection. Sharp corners and projections must be avoided. If cages are used, their openings must be such that the fur animals can be removed without difficulty.

3. Enclosures and buildings shall be designed and constructed so as to minimise the entry of rats, mice and birds.

4. The design, construction and maintenance of enclosures, buildings and equipment for fur animals shall be such as to allow without difficulty a thorough inspection of all animals.

5. The design, construction and maintenance of enclosures and accommodation for fur animals shall at all times allow them, in accordance with their species-specific needs, sufficient room to carry out normal locomotor behaviour, to groom themselves without difficulty and to lie down, to rest, to adopt sleeping postures, to stretch their limbs freely and to rise.

Those species which jump during normal locomotion or when alarmed, and those species which rear up on their hind legs during normal investigatory behaviour shall be provided with room to do so at all times except when within an area provided especially for sleeping.

Whenever this is part of the normal behaviour pattern of the species and improves the welfare of the individuals, animals shall be able to see conspecifics and be able to show social investigation and behaviour associated with the maintenance of social structure.

6. Floors shall be well drained in order to evacuate droppings and spills of water and such as to avoid discomfort, distress or traumatic injury to the animals. Materials used for floors shall be appropriate for the particular species. Where perforated floors are used they shall be suitable for the species concerned as well as for the size, age and weight of the animals housed and form a rigid, even and stable surface.

7. Equipment should be available for the proper handling of animals under examination, treatment or test.

8. Suitable accommodation should be available for separation and, where necessary for isolation so that sick or injured animals can be carefully examined and treated.

9. Every animal shall have available to it an area where it can hide itself appropriately from people or from animals in other cages or pens.

10. The premises on which pelting takes place shall be situated sufficiently far from the enclosures used for other animals so that these animals are not disturbed.

Article 10

Appropriate equipment shall be available and in good working order to kill the animals by methods listed in Appendix F for the species concerned.

MANAGEMENT

Article 11

1. The space allowance for fur animals should be calculated in relation to the species-specific demands on the whole environment, the age, sex, live weight and biological needs of the animals, taking account of the size of the group. Lack of space or overstocking leading to behavioural or other disorders shall be avoided.

2. Suitable material shall be available for the species-specific use and comfort of the animals.

Barren environments shall be avoided. The environment shall be equipped with suitable stimuli such as occupational material, for instance straw.

Article 12

1. Animals shall be maintained in a clean condition.

2. Those parts of the accommodation with which the animals come into contact shall be thoroughly cleansed and disinfected when appropriate, and at least annually. While the accommodation is occupied by the animals, the interior surfaces and all equipment therein shall be kept satisfactorily clean.

3. Enclosures and houses shall be kept in such a manner as to control or eliminate parasites, flies, rats or mice.

Article 13

1. All animals shall have appropriate access to adequate, nutritious, hygienic and balanced feed each day, at regular times if possible, and continuous access to an ad lib supply of water of suitable quality, so as to maintain their full health and vigour and to meet their species-specific biological needs.

2. Routine or systematic use of drugs to compensate for poor hygienic conditions or management practices shall not be allowed. The use of growth-promoting and fur-maturation substances shall not be allowed.

No animal shall be provided with food or liquid in a manner, nor shall food or liquid contain any substance, which may cause unnecessary suffering or injury.

No other substance with the exception of those given for therapeutic or prophylactic purposes shall be administered to an animal unless it has been demonstrated by scientific evidence or practical experience that the effect of the substance is not detrimental to the health or welfare of the animal.

Article 14

1. The accommodation for fur animals shall be kept so that the ambient temperature, the air velocity, the relative humidity, the levels of toxic gases and dust as well as other atmospheric conditions do not adversely affect the health and welfare of the animals.

2. The facilities for storing and handling manure in or outside the accommodation shall be designed, maintained and managed to prevent the exposure of the animals to gases in concentrations detrimental to their health. Faeces shall be removed frequently enough to prevent adverse effects on the animals.

3. Where the health of the animals depends on an artificial ventilation system, a supply of fresh air shall also be guaranteed in case of failures in the system.

Article 15

The animals shall not be unnecessarily exposed to constant or sudden noise. Ventilation fans, feeding machinery or other equipment shall be constructed, placed, operated and maintained in such a way that it causes the least possible noise, both directly inside the accommodation and indirectly through the structure of the accommodation itself.

Article 16

The animals must be shielded from direct sunlight and must not be kept permanently in strong light nor in total darkness. Where artificial light is necessary the sources must be mounted so as not to cause discomfort to the animals and the level of lighting whether natural or artificial must be sufficient to permit normal behaviour of the species.

Article 17

All automatic or other mechanical equipment upon which the animals depend for their health and welfare must be inspected at least once daily. Provisions shall be made enabling any failure of the ventilation system which could endanger the health or welfare of the animals to be discovered and rectified immediately. If immediate rectification appears impossible, appropriate steps shall be taken to safeguard the health and welfare of the animals until the defect is rectified.

Article 18

Weaning of cubs shall take place at an age which is most beneficial to the welfare of the mother and the cubs.

Article 19

1. When the animals have to be caught or moved, this shall be done as far as possible without causing agitation or other forms of distress to them or to other animals.
All reasonable measures shall be taken to prevent the animals from escaping.

2. Escaped animals should be caught painlessly. If traps are used they shall be inspected at least twice a day.

Article 20

Electro-ejaculation shall not be used other than for veterinary diagnosis when there is no other method available. In such exceptional circumstances, it shall be carried out under strict veterinary control.

CHANGES OF PHENOTYPE AND/OR GENOTYPE

Article 21

1. Breeding or breeding programmes which cause or are likely to cause suffering or harm to any of the animals involved shall not be practised. In particular, animals whose genotype has been modified for production purposes shall not be kept under commercial farm conditions unless it has been demonstrated by scientific studies of animal welfare that the animals can be kept under such conditions without detriment to their health or welfare. Strongly fearful animals should not be included in the breeding stock.

2. In breeding programmes, particular attention shall be paid to criteria conducive to the improvement of animals' health and welfare, as well as to production criteria. Therefore, the conservation or development of breeds or strains of animals which would limit or reduce animal welfare problems shall be encouraged.

KILLING

Article 22

1. Killing shall be done by a competent person without causing undue agitation, pain or other forms of distress.

The method chosen shall either

a. cause immediate loss of consciousness and death, or
b. rapidly induce deep general anaesthesia culminating in death, or
c. cause the death of an animal which is anaesthetised or effectively stunned without any aversive influence on the animal.

Appendix F lists the principal methods which can, when used correctly, meet these requirements and which should be applied when permitted under domestic law and in accordance with domestic law.

2. The person responsible for the killing shall ensure that for each animal the requirements under paragraph 1. above are fulfilled, and that the animal is dead before further procedures are carried out.

3. Killing shall be done so as to cause the least possible disturbance to the other animals.

RESEARCH

Article 23

1. Where Parties seek to encourage or promote fur farming on their territory in accordance with the provisions in this Recommendation, they shall undertake to carry out, in respect of each species of fur animals kept on their territory, research on:

a. the biology and welfare of these animals, including health;

b. the development of husbandry systems, including group housing, in order to improve the welfare of these animals, including health;

c. humane methods of killing these animals.

Such studies shall include the need for adequate freedom of movement and the opportunity for observation of other animals and surroundings, climbing, access to water for thermo-regulation and for swimming, hiding, ground-digging, jumping, walking on a solid ground and other territorial, social and exploratory behaviour and other methods for environmental enrichment.

2. Endeavours shall be made to develop and apply systems which are, in the light of available scientific knowledge, appropriate to their biological needs, including needs to carry out certain behaviour, into the design, construction or reconstruction of accommodation for the animals.

3. Such systems shall minimise the risk of diseases and injuries and provide a stimulating environment to enable the animal to fulfil the biological needs as deduced from studies of the animals in nature and in farm conditions.

Article 24

The Standing Committee shall be informed annually of the program and results of research, and measures taken to improve breeding conditions and control production.

SUPPLEMENTARY PROVISIONS

Article 25

This Recommendation shall be reviewed within 5 years after coming into force. It shall be completed with Appendices on special provisions for other species when scientific knowledge is available.

APPENDIX A

SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR MINK (Mustela vison)

1. A nest box of thermoinsulating material, which is not hazardous to the health of the animals, with a sufficient floor area shall be available. The design of the opening of the nest box shall allow new born animals to be retained while providing easy access for other animals. Suitable bedding and occupational material such as straw shall be regularly provided, and its adequacy must be checked, especially during the period of giving birth and in the cold season.

2. Immature animals shall not be kept isolated. Stable relationship are most easily obtained in groups of animals reared together. Group sizes and stocking densities of these animals shall be such that they allow for peaceful cohabitation. Weaning of young shall take place at an age which is most beneficial to the welfare of the mother and the young, and shall take place not earlier than eight weeks of age. Only in exceptional circumstances where the welfare of the mother or the young is endangered, can the weaning take place at a younger age. Weaned young should not be left in the vicinity of their mother.

3. Where there is a significant level of stereotypy or self-mutilation in mink on a farm, the system of housing or management shall be changed appropriately so that the welfare of the animals is improved. If these measures are not sufficient production should be suspended.

4. When breeding animals are paired together or, in exceptional circumstances, when adult animals are placed in the same accommodation, there shall be adequate supervision.

5. If the animals are kept in cages, the cages should be placed at a sufficient height and the areas under the cages should be covered with sand, gravel, cinders or other suitable material, to allow the easy removal of faeces.

Cages shall not be placed one above the other.

6. If the animals are kept in cages, the height of the cages shall allow animals to rear on their hind legs.

7. Minimum space for mink

Free area (cm²)²
(excluding nest boxes)

Single adult animal 2550

Single adult with cubs 2550

Juveniles after weaning, up to 2 animals 2550³

The minimum height of any accommodation shall be 45 cm.

The figures above shall apply for new systems or when existing systems are replaced.

All systems with cages with a free area of less than 1600 cm² or a height of less than 35 cm must be replaced by 31st December 2001.

Systems with cages with a free area of more than 1600 cm² and a height greater than 35 cm must be replaced with systems complying with at least the above dimensions by 31st December 2010.

8. When designing new accommodation consideration shall be given to the possibility for adaptations which would allow for environmental enrichment.

9. In the design, construction or reconstruction of accommodation for the animals, endeavours shall be made to develop and apply systems which are, in the light of available scientific knowledge, appropriate to their biological needs.
Research shall be carried out which will establish standards and develop housing systems that minimise the risk of diseases and injuries and provide a stimulating environment to enable animals to fulfil their biological needs, as deduced from studies of the animals in nature and in farm conditions. Such systems shall include the need for adequate freedom of movement and the opportunity for observation of other animals and surroundings, climbing, access to water for thermo-regulation and for swimming and other social and exploratory behaviour. Shared space systems involving tunnels and removable walls between cages shall be considered. Research shall also be carried out which will help to reduce fear of humans, abnormal behaviour and stress in the animals.

For each additional animal more than 2, an additional 850 cm² shall be provided.

APPENDIX B

SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR POLECAT, FERRET, FITCH (Mustela putorius)

1. A nest box of thermoinsulating material, which is not hazardous to the health of the animals, with a sufficient floor area shall be available. The design of the opening of the nest box shall allow new born animals to be retained while providing easy access for other animals. Suitable bedding and occupational material such as straw shall be regularly provided, and its adequacy must be checked especially during the period of giving birth and in the cold season.

3. When breeding animals are paired together or, in exceptional circumstances, when adult animals are placed in the same accommodation, there shall be adequate supervision.

4. If the animals are kept in cages, the cages should be placed at a sufficient height and the areas under the cages should be covered with sand, gravel, cinders or other suitable material, to allow the easy removal of faeces.

Cages shall not be placed one above the other.

5. If the animals are kept in cages, the height of the cages shall allow animals to rear on their hind legs.

6. Minimum space for fitch

Free area (cm²)¹
(excluding nest boxes)

Single adult animal 2550

Single adult with cubs 2550

Juveniles after weaning, up to 2 animals 2550²

The minimum height of any accommodation shall be 45 cm.

The figures above shall apply for new systems or when existing systems are replaced.

All systems with cages with a free area of less than 1600 cm² or a height of less than
35 cm must be replaced by 31st December 2001.

Systems with cages with a free area of more than 1600 cm² and a height greater than
35 cm must be replaced with systems complying with at least the above dimensions before 31st December 2010.

7. When designing new accommodation consideration shall be given to the possibility for adaptations which would allow for environmental enrichment.

8. In the design, construction or reconstruction of accommodation for the animals, endeavours shall be made to develop and apply systems which are, in the light of available scientific knowledge, appropriate to their biological needs.
Research shall be carried out which will establish standards and develop housing systems that minimise the risk of diseases and injuries and provide a stimulating environment to enable animals to fulfil their biological needs, as deduced from studies of the animals in nature and in farm conditions. Such systems shall include the need for adequate freedom of movement and the opportunity for observation of other animals and surroundings, climbing, access to water for thermo-regulation and other social and exploratory behaviour. Shared space systems involving tunnels and removable walls between cages shall be considered. Research shall also be carried out which will help to reduce fear of humans, abnormal behaviour and stress in the animals.

APPENDIX C

SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR FOXES (Vulpes vulpes and Alopex lagopus)

1. Since all biological needs of foxes are not met in the systems of husbandry at present in commercial use, such systems shall be replaced as soon as possible by new systems which are better adapted to the biological characteristics. Until husbandry methods are available which meet the conditions in paragraph 14 hereafter existing systems shall be improved to comply with the requirements in paragraphs 2-13 hereafter.

2. The environment shall be enriched with objects that provide suitable stimuli to gnaw and any other occupational material.

3. The animals shall be habituated to human contact from birth.

4. The animals shall be kept in such a way that their claws are in good condition.

5. When breeding animals are paired together or, in exceptional circumstances, when adult animals are placed in the same accommodation, there shall be adequate supervision. Subordinate vixens should not be placed in cages next to dominant females.

6. Where there is significant incidence of infanticide, a farm production system shall be changed appropriately, for example, by changing the housing conditions for breeding vixens or genetic strains. If these measures are not sufficient, the production should be suspended.

7. Foxes must be able to conceal themselves from people and from animals in other cages or enclosures. They must also be able to rest and to observe their surroundings. Each weaned animal shall have available:

a. a secluded area;

b. either an elevated platform or a nest box with a roof on which the animal can rest and observe the cage door or enclosure entrance.

8. For Vulpes vulpes, the secluded area shall have solid walls.

9. Pregnant vixens and vixens with cubs shall have a nest box which shall be divided into an anteroom, large enough to conceal the entrance to the main room, and a main room with adequate drainage and equipped with adequate thermoinsulating material.

10. Weaned cubs should not be left in the vicinity of their mother.

11. If the animals are kept in cages, the cages should be placed at a sufficient height to enable easy removal of manure and the areas under the cages should be covered with sand, gravel, cinders or other suitable material to allow the soaking up of effluent whilst permitting the easy removal of faeces.

Cages shall not be placed one above the other.

12. The routine use of neck tongs for catching foxes shall be avoided.

13. Minimum space for foxes

Free area (m²)¹

Single adult animal 0,8

Single adult with cubs 2,0

Juveniles after weaning, up to 2 animals 1,2²

The minimum height of any accommodation shall be 70 cm.

The figures above shall apply for new accommodation or when existing accommodation is replaced. All accommodation shall comply with at least these figures before 31st December 2010.

Consideration shall be given to increasing the height of cages in order to improve the welfare of foxes.

14. In the design, construction or reconstruction of accommodation for the animals, endeavours shall be made to develop and apply systems which are, in the light of available scientific knowledge, appropriate to their biological needs.
Research shall be carried out which will establish standards and develop housing systems that minimise the risk of diseases and injuries and provide a stimulating environment to enable animals to fulfil their biological needs, as deduced from studies of the animals in nature and in farm conditions. Such systems shall include the need for adequate freedom of movement and the opportunity for observation of other animals and humans, thermo-regulation, climbing, hiding, digging, jumping, and other exploratory, territorial and social behaviour. Shared space systems involving tunnels and removable walls between cages and much taller cages or cage systems other than those used at present shall be considered. Research shall also be carried out which will help to reduce fear of humans, abnormal behaviour and stress in the animals.

APPENDIX D

SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR COYPU, NUTRIA (Myocastor coypus)

1. The environment shall be equipped with suitable stimuli such as possibilities for social contact, objects to gnaw, occupational material and objects such as tubes and boxes and appropriate facilities for swimming.

2. Coypu shall be kept in groups.

3. The construction of pens and runs shall allows animals to be within sight and smell of other animals. There shall be a solid area available for exercising.

4. A nest box provided with straw or other suitable thermoinsulating material, which is not hazardous to the health of the animals, shall be available. The dimensions of the nest box shall be such that all animals in one enclosure are able to lie down at the same time and that it can be kept warm by the body temperature. The nest box must have two chambers and two exits. Other animals in a group may need to be separated from a female and her litter soon after parturition to prevent the female from injuring these other animals.

5. Minimum space for coypu

Free area (m²) ¹
(excluding water for swimming)

Single adult animal 1.0

Single adult with cubs 2.0

Juvenile after weaning 0.5

Minimum size of a pen must be 2.0 m².

The figures above shall apply for new pens or when existing pens are replaced. All pens shall comply with at least these figures by 31st December 2010.

6. In the design, construction or reconstruction of accommodation for the animals, endeavours shall be made to develop and apply systems which are, in the light of available scientific knowledge, appropriate to their biological needs.
Research shall be carried out which will establish standards and develop housing systems that minimise the risk of diseases and injuries and provide a stimulating environment to enable animals to fulfil their biological needs, as deduced from studies of the animals in nature and in farm conditions. Such systems shall include the need for adequate freedom of movement and the opportunity for observation of other animals and surroundings, thermo-regulation, digging, and other social and exploratory behaviour. Research shall also be carried out which will help to reduce fear of humans, abnormal behaviour and stress in the animals.

APPENDIX E

SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR CHINCHILLA (Chinchilla chinchilla,
Chinchilla brevicaudata and Chinchilla lanigera)

1. The environment shall be equipped with suitable stimuli such as occupational material and objects such as tubes and boxes.

2. They shall have a suitable object to gnaw.

3. They shall have access to a sand bath at least once a day.

4. Suitable platforms to facilitate locomotor activity shall be provided after weaning of juveniles.

5. Animals shall have access to an appropriate secluded area where they can rest and hide.

6. Adequate bedding shall be provided.

7. At least 25% of the accommodation floor shall be solid.

8. As social animals, solitary housing shall be an exception. Group of juveniles, after weaning and prior to sexual maturation, should preferably be litterwise.

9. In order to prevent excessive fur loss, special care shall be taken in handling chinchillas. It is recommended that the tail root is held between thumb and index finger while putting the other hand around the thorax and front legs to support the body. Fur shall not be plucked from live animals.

10. Guidelines for minimum space for chinchillas

Free area (m²)¹

Adult animals, up to two animals 0.5
Single adult with cubs 0.5
Juvenile after weaning 0.3²

The minimum height of any accommodation should be 100 cm.

The figures above shall be taken into consideration, in particular when new accommodation is constructed or when existing accommodation is replaced.

11. In the design, construction or reconstruction of accommodation for the animals, endeavours shall be made to develop and apply systems which are, in the light of available scientific knowledge, appropriate to their biological needs.
Research shall be carried out which will establish standards and develop housing systems that minimise the risk of diseases and injuries and provide a stimulating environment to enable animals to fulfil their biological needs, as deduced from studies of the animals in nature and in farm conditions. Such systems shall include the need for adequate freedom of movement and the opportunity for observation of other animals and surroundings, climbing, thermo-regulation, jumping, and other social and exploratory behaviour.

APPENDIX F

METHODS OF KILLING FUR ANIMALS

I. Physical methods

Electrocution
A method of electrocution shall be used which leads to immediate loss of consciousness and cardiac arrest. For foxes, where electrodes are applied to the mouth and rectum, a current of an average value of 0,3 Ampere must be applied for at least 3 seconds.
Electrocution equipment shall be fitted with a device indicating the current under load, which is clearly visible to the operator.

Projectiles penetrating the brain
Animals may be killed by projectiles which enter the cerebral cortex. If a captive-bolt method is used bleeding shall be performed immediately after use.

II. Inhalation methods

The chamber in which the animals are exposed to the gas (mixture) is designed, constructed and maintained in such a way as to avoid injury to the animals and allow them to be observed.
The gas must induce deep general anaesthesia and must then cause certain death.
The animals must remain in the chamber until they are dead.
Except when permitted below, only gas or gas mixtures which do not cause breathlessness or respiratory distress during induction shall be used. Gas or gas mixtures which are aversive should not be used.

Carbon monoxide
The animals must be introduced into the chamber only after it contains carbon monoxide at a concentration of at least 1% by volume, preferably supplied from a cylinder containing
100% carbon monoxide.

The gas produced by a petrol engine which has been specially adapted for the purpose may be used provided that this gas:

- has been adequately cooled (eg by passing the gas through water),
- has been sufficiently filtered (eg by a metal filter) and
- is not accompanied by irritant gases or material,

and that the system is tested by the owner before each batch of animals is killed.

Carbon dioxide
Carbon dioxide may be used to kill mustelids and chinchillas until less aversive gases or gas mixtures with equivalent effect are available.
The animals must be introduced into the chamber only when the atmosphere contains the highest possible concentration of carbon dioxide supplied by a source of 100% carbon dioxide.

Chloroform
Chloroform may be used to kill chinchilla.
The animals must be introduced into the chamber only if it contains a saturated chloroform-air mixture, to avoid suffocation.

III. Injectable agents

Lethal injections
Pentobarbitone sodium solution (200 mg/ml) or any other anaesthetic which has been shown to produce similar effects, with the exception of Chloral Hydrate, may be used to kill in particular mustelids and foxes.
Muscle relaxants shall only be used when anaesthesia has been induced.

Note ¹ This document is issued for information. It will not be the subject of an item on the agenda, unless a delegation so requests, before 28 February 2002.

Note ¹ This document is issued for information. It will not be the subject of an item on the agenda, unless a delegation so requests, before 28 February 2002.

Note ² No accommodation shall be less than 30 cm wide excluding nest box.

Note No accommodation shall be less than 70 cm long excluding nest box.

Note 3

Note ¹ 70% of the floor shall be solid.

Note 1 This document is issued for information. It will not be the subject of an item on the agenda, unless a delegation so requests, before 28 February 2002.

Note 2 No accommodation shall be less than 30 cm wide excluding nest box.

Note No accommodation shall be less than 70 cm long excluding nest box.

Note 3

Note 1 70% of the floor shall be solid.

Note ¹ This document is issued for information. It will not be the subject of an item on the agenda, unless a delegation so requests, before 28 February 2002.

Note ² No accommodation shall be less than 30 cm wide excluding nest box.

Note ¹ 70% of the floor shall be solid.