The EU banned conventional battery cages in 2012 but enriched colony cages still deny hens space to perform basic natural behaviors.
Hens in enriched colony cages cannot fully spread their wings, engage in normal dust bathing, or forage effectively in the limited space available. While better than conventional battery cages, enriched cages still prevent expression of highly motivated natural behaviors. The psychological frustration from being unable to perform important behavioral needs causes chronic stress.