The depopulation of laying hen flocks at end of lay involves significant welfare challenges that are being addressed through improved methods and training.
End-of-lay hens are among the most welfare-compromised birds in poultry production - osteoporotic from calcium mobilization for eggshell production, often with reproductive system pathologies, and with poor feather cover from months in commercial systems. Depopulation from this state requires particularly skilled and careful handling. On-farm humane killing systems that eliminate transport stress represent significant welfare improvements for this vulnerable population.