Backyard Chickens: Welfare Responsibilities

Keeping backyard chickens has grown in popularity, but comes with welfare responsibilities that many inexperienced keepers are unprepared for.

Key Facts

The UK has seen significant growth in backyard and garden chicken keeping since the Covid-19 pandemic
Backyard chickens require vaccination against Marek's disease, Newcastle disease and infectious bronchitis
Red mite (Dermanyssus gallinae) is a severe welfare problem causing anaemia, feather loss and death if untreated
Hens still lay eggs in their final years even after production declines significantly, requiring ongoing care
DEFRA requires backyard keepers to register flocks of 50+ birds; all backyard flocks must follow poultry disease regulations

Welfare Considerations

Backyard chicken welfare problems are frequently invisible to inexperienced keepers who lack the knowledge to recognise disease, parasitism or nutritional deficiency. Red mite infestations cause intense pruritus and anaemia that can kill birds, yet many keepers do not recognise the signs. Marek's disease causes neurological dysfunction and paralysis in unvaccinated birds. The welfare responsibilities of chicken keeping extend throughout each bird's life and cannot be discharged when egg production declines.

What You Can Do

Research chicken keeping thoroughly before acquiring birds, including housing, nutrition, health and legal requirements
Vaccinate all chickens against Marek's disease and ensure annual boosters against other diseases
Implement regular red mite monitoring and treatment as a routine welfare practice
Register your flock with DEFRA and follow all poultry health and disease reporting requirements
Commit to lifelong care for your chickens regardless of egg production levels