The catching and loading of broiler chickens before transport to slaughter is a high-risk welfare event causing significant injury and mortality that better training and equipment can substantially reduce.
Catching and loading welfare is determined by a combination of equipment, environment, and human behaviour. Catching birds in darkness (lights off or red-light conditions) reduces panic and struggling, significantly reducing injury rates. Carrying broilers by their legs rather than wings reduces wing dislocation. Stocking density in catching equipment and transport crates affects bird welfare during the pre-slaughter period. Heat stress during catching, particularly in hot weather or poorly ventilated catching areas, causes additional welfare harm. The regulatory framework for catching and loading is less developed than for slaughter itself — welfare assurance must extend back through the entire pre-slaughter chain. RSPCA Assured and equivalent welfare schemes include catching and loading requirements as part of their standards.