Brooding motivation in hens — the drive to incubate eggs and rear chicks — is suppressed in commercial production through genetic selection, lighting, and management, with welfare implications.
Brooding welfare is complex because commercial selection has reduced brooding motivation in most laying lines, meaning welfare harms from frustration are lower in commercial flocks than in heritage breeds. However, hens that do show brooding behaviour in systems that prevent incubation experience significant motivational frustration. Traditional breed welfare is particularly affected when brooding drives are strong but nesting conditions are inadequate. Welfare provision that allows willing hens to complete brooding cycles provides both welfare and educational benefits.