Perching is a fundamental behavioral need for laying hens that also provides important physical health benefits. Understanding the bone health evidence strengthens the welfare case for perches.
Bone fractures in laying hens represent one of the most widespread and underrecognized welfare problems in poultry production. The combination of extremely high calcium demands from egg laying and inadequate exercise in cage systems creates extreme osteoporosis that results in bones that fracture from normal handling or movement. Hens with fractures experience pain that affects their behavior and productivity. Perch access improves bone strength through weight-bearing exercise, though keel bone fractures remain prevalent even in aviary systems with perches, suggesting that perch design, placement, and management need further optimization. The welfare case for both perches and reduced fracture risk is now well-established in poultry welfare science.