Farmed Layer Pullet Welfare: The First 16 Weeks Matter

Layer pullets are young hens raised during the first 16 weeks before egg production begins. Welfare during this critical period shapes adult behavior, bone health, and stress reactivity for the entire laying life.

Key Facts

Layer pullets are typically raised in separate pullet houses before transfer to laying facilities
Early access to perches reduces keel bone fracture rates in adult hens by up to 30%
Pullets raised in complex environments adapt better to enriched laying cages as adults
Beak trimming of pullets is still practiced in many countries to reduce injurious pecking
Pullet mortality in commercial systems averages 1-5% before the laying period begins
Pullets raised with outdoor access show lower fearfulness scores as adult hens

Welfare Considerations

The pullet phase is foundational for adult hen welfare outcomes. Hens raised in barren pullet environments show higher fearfulness, poorer bone density, and more injurious pecking as adults. Providing perches from day one allows skeletal development appropriate for sustained perch use. Gradual light exposure and positive human contact during the pullet phase reduce chronic fear responses. Transfer stress between pullet and laying facilities is a recognized welfare challenge requiring careful management. Improving pullet welfare has compounding benefits across the entire productive life of each hen.

What You Can Do

Support egg producers who document pullet welfare standards as part of certification
Choose eggs from producers who provide perches and enrichment from the pullet stage
Advocate for pullet welfare standards to be included in laying hen certification schemes
Support research into beak trimming alternatives such as genetic selection for low pecking motivation