Providing environmental enrichment in broiler sheds — perches, elevated platforms, pecking objects — dramatically improves welfare outcomes with minimal cost implications for producers.
Broiler chickens in barren sheds with poor litter quality develop contact dermatitis, hock burns, and spend most of time lying on wet litter. Providing raised platforms reduces ground contact time and encourages movement that builds leg muscle and bone strength. Simple bales of straw or hanging novel objects are low-cost enrichments with measurable welfare benefits.