Here are examples of intensive production systems for poultry:

Battery Cages:

Definition: Hens are kept in small, wire cages stacked in rows, with automated systems for feeding, watering, and egg collection.
Advantages: High egg production efficiency, easy management, and reduced labor costs.
Disadvantages: Limited space for movement, restricted natural behaviors, and potential animal welfare concerns.

Broiler Production:

Definition: Chickens explicitly raised for meat are kept in large, climate-controlled houses with automated feeding and watering systems.
Advantages: Fast growth rates, high meat yield, and efficient use of space.
Disadvantages: High stocking density can lead to stress, health issues, and environmental concerns due to waste production.

Deep Litter System:

Definition: Poultry is kept on the floor with a bedding material like straw or wood shavings, which is regularly refreshed.
Advantages: More natural movement and behavior compared to caged systems and easier management of large flocks.
Disadvantages: Requires regular cleaning to prevent disease, and the litter can become a breeding ground for pathogens.

Enriched Cages:

Definition: These are similar to battery cages but provide additional space and features like perches and nesting areas to allow some natural behaviors.
Advantages: Improved welfare compared to traditional cages while maintaining high production efficiency.
Disadvantages: Higher costs compared to battery cages, and still restricts some natural behaviors.

Automated Free-Range Systems:

Definition: Chickens have access to outdoor areas but are kept in large, automated housing for part of the day.
Advantages: Combines the welfare benefits of outdoor access with the efficiency of automation.
Disadvantages: Higher land requirements, potential for predation, and more complex management.

Integrated Farm Systems:

Definition: Poultry production is integrated with crop farming, where poultry waste is used as fertilizer, and crops are used as feed.
Advantages: Sustainable and environmentally friendly, with reduced waste and lower feed costs.
Disadvantages: Requires careful planning and management to balance the needs of both poultry and crops.

These intensive production systems are designed to maximize efficiency but vary in their impact on animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and production costs.