Farmed Animals

Outdoor Range Use in Free-Range Hens

Many free-range hens do not use outdoor range, limiting welfare benefits often assumed by the free-range label.

Key Facts

Studies show only 15-20% of free-range hens may use outdoor range
Shade, shelter, and cover plants encourage range use
Fear of aerial predators can prevent hens from moving far from the pop hole
Range enrichment including trees and shrubs significantly increases outdoor use
Range use provides benefits for feather cover, bone strength, and behaviour

Welfare Considerations

The free-range label implies outdoor access but does not guarantee meaningful range use. Many hens cluster near pop holes and never venture to the wider range due to lack of shelter, fear of predators, or social pressure. Producers who invest in range enrichment through trees, shrubs, and shelters see significantly higher range use and better welfare outcomes.

What You Can Do

Look for free-range certification schemes that measure actual range use
Support retailers and producers who invest in range enrichment
Advocate for range use monitoring as part of free-range standards
Raise awareness that free-range does not automatically mean good welfare
Support research into factors promoting range use in laying hens