Topics:
Animal Refresher, Poultry Science
Order of Depigmentation in Layers
Order of depigmentation in a layer (from 1st to last) is:
- Vent, Eye ring & Earlobes, Beak, Shank — Correct Answer
- Shank, Beak, Earlobes, Vent
- Vent, Beak, Shank, Earlobe, Body
- Vent, Beak, Earlobe, Shank, Body
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Vent, Eye ring & Earlobes, Beak, Shank
Depigmentation (loss of yellow pigment/xanthophyll) occurs in a specific order in laying hens as egg production continues. The areas with the best blood circulation lose pigment first.
Order of Depigmentation (1st → Last)
- Vent (after ~10 eggs) — highest blood flow; depigments first
- Eye ring & Earlobes
- Beak (after ~25 eggs)
- Shank (after ~100 eggs) — lowest blood flow; depigments last
This process is useful for assessing a hen's laying history. Good layers show complete depigmentation. After moulting or cessation of laying, re-pigmentation occurs in the reverse order (shanks repigment first).
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This multiple choice question is from Animal Refresher, Poultry Science. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Refresher to strengthen your preparation.
