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The compatibility of domestic birds with a nonchemical agroecosystem

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  30 October 2009

M. Sean Clark ,
Stuart H. Gage ,
Laura B. DeLind  and
Marian Lennington
M. Sean Clark
Affiliation:
Graduate Assistant, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824.
Stuart H. Gage
Affiliation:
Professor, Department of Entomology and the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824.
Laura B. DeLind
Affiliation:
Senior Academic Specialist, Department of Anthropology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824.
Marian Lennington
Affiliation:
Graduate student, Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824.
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Abstract

We evaluated free-range domestic chickens and geese as components of a nonchemical apple orchard intercropped with potato. Chickens and geese were compatible with the system but provided different benefits and had different requirements. Chickens were omnivorous and highly active throughout the day, and dispersed throughout the available area. In contrast, geese were strictly herbivorous and less active, and usually remained close to their coop and water source. Geese substantially reduced vegetation biomass under the trees and around the potatoes without damaging either crop. Chickens reduced noncrop vegetation biomass slightly but also consumed several insect species, including Japanese beetle and Colorado potato beetle. Factors influencing the feasibility of integrating domestic chickens or geese into agroecosystems are discussed.

Keywords

free-range chickensfree-range geeseapple orchardpotatointercroppingintegrationweed management
Type
Articles
Information
American Journal of Alternative Agriculture , Volume 10 , Issue 3 , September 1995 , pp. 114 - 121
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1995

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