Farm Animals

Farmed Hen Nest Box Design

Nest box design in laying hen systems significantly affects nest use, keel bone fractures and aggression, with evidence-based design improvements available that welfare certification has not yet required.

Key Facts

Hens show strong motivation to use enclosed, dark nest boxes and will work hard for access
Group nest boxes are used by multiple hens simultaneously causing competition and stress
Nest boxes that require flight to access cause landing injuries contributing to keel bone fractures
Covered pop-hole nest access with curtains increases nest box use in free-range systems

Welfare Considerations

Hens that cannot access nest boxes prior to laying experience severe frustration and may lay on the floor in communal areas, increasing breakage and floor egg problems. Competition at nest boxes causes aggression, injury and stress. Nest boxes accessible through walking rather than flying reduce keel bone fracture risk. The welfare impact of improved nest box design is significant but most systems continue to use inadequately designed nest provision.

What You Can Do

Support egg certification schemes that specify nest box design requirements
Advocate for evidence-based nest box design standards in welfare certification
Choose eggs from producers who invest in individual or small group nest box provision
Back research into nest box design that reduces keel bone fractures and improves use rate