Debeaking, also known as "beak trimming," is a process by which parts of the beak of a chicken are removed.
This procedure is sometimes used on large farms, usually battery farms, to prevent cannibalism amongst the chickens, which results from excessively crowded confinement. Advocates of the process argue that the side effects of debeaking should be considered collateral damage, since they consider it necessary for mass production of meat. It is sometimes compared to the trimming of human fingernails, although clipping fingernails does not result in the damage of tissue or nerves. The process reduces the ability of the chickens to eat, drink, or preen. Several scientific studies, including a study in 1991 conducted by Dr. Michael C. Appleby, indicated that the beak is sensitive, and that much pain results from the process of debeaking. When the beak heals, tumors are often formed. Chickens who undergo debeaking show symptoms of chronic pain and depression, according to some behavioral studies.
The debeaking of chickens is sometimes cited as a reason for the adoption of a vegan lifestyle, which eschews the consumption of meat or the use of animal-based products.
