Broiler chickens are among the world's most farmed animals, yet their behavioural needs are among the least considered in intensive production. Providing environmental enrichment — objects and structures that allow expression of natural behaviours — offers one of the most practical, evidence-based welfare improvements available.
The enrichment evidence base for broilers is clear: birds in enriched environments are more active, have better muscle development, reduced footpad dermatitis, and show more positive affective states as measured by cognitive bias tests. The welfare case for enrichment is strong, and the cost to producers is modest — straw bales, perches, and hanging enrichment add negligible production costs relative to the welfare benefit. The primary barrier is industry inertia and the absence of mandatory requirements in most jurisdictions. Consumer purchasing decisions and retailer commitments (such as the Better Chicken Commitment, which specifies enrichment requirements alongside slower-growing breeds and lower stocking densities) are currently the most effective lever for systemic change.