Debeaking, beak trimming, or beak conditioning is the partial removal of the beak of poultry, especially layer hens and turkeys although it may also be performed on quail and ducks. Most commonly, the beak is shortened permanently, although regrowth can occur.

What is debeaking and why is it done?

Beak trimming is the partial removal of the tip of the beak, and results in a beak that is blunt or rounded at the end. It is one of the most common methods utilised by the poultry industry (mainly the egg and turkey industries) to control the impacts of severe feather pecking.

What is the definition for debeaking?

: to remove the tip of the upper mandible of (a bird, such as a chicken) to prevent cannibalism and fighting.