Enrichment in broiler and laying hen systems significantly reduces fear, aggression and stress. Evidence-based provision is increasingly mandated by welfare standards.
Chickens have sophisticated behavioural needs that are frustrated in barren environments. Laying hens without nesting material suffer from pre-laying anxiety and frustrated nesting behaviour. Broilers without perches or enrichment show higher incidence of contact dermatitis and inactivity related to leg pain. Research confirms that enriched environments produce measurable welfare improvements while having limited production impact. Consumer preference for higher-welfare eggs has driven significant market expansion in enriched cage and free-range categories.