Farm Animals

Broiler Catching Welfare

Catching broiler chickens for transport is among the most acute welfare events in their short lives.

Key Facts

Evidence-based approaches to broiler catching welfare inform welfare improvements globally
Animal welfare science provides tools to assess and improve conditions for all species
Individual consumer choices combined with advocacy create lasting systemic change
Every action to reduce animal suffering contributes to a more compassionate world

Welfare Considerations

Manual catching of broiler chickens involves handlers grabbing birds by their legs causing acute pain from joint damage. Mechanical harvesting machines are more welfare-friendly when properly calibrated. Loading into transport crates creates overcrowding and thermal stress. The journey to slaughter exposes birds to temperature extremes and extended periods without water.

What You Can Do

Support mandatory mechanical catching and welfare-conscious transport standards
Advocate for maximum transport time and temperature requirements for broilers
Choose chicken from producers with documented catching and transport welfare protocols
Reduce poultry consumption to lower demand from intensive production