Farm Animal Welfare

Backyard Poultry Welfare Considerations

Backyard chicken keeping has grown rapidly, but many keepers lack knowledge of disease management, predator protection, and behavioral needs — leading to preventable welfare failures.

Key Facts

Backyard poultry keeping doubled in many countries during the COVID-19 pandemic
Predator attacks are a leading cause of backyard flock mortality
Respiratory disease and parasites are common in inadequately managed flocks
Hens show strong social hierarchies requiring careful flock management
End-of-lay hens face a welfare crisis when keepers cannot manage non-productive birds

Welfare Considerations

Backyard poultry welfare problems arise from a gap between intention and knowledge. Well-intentioned keepers often underestimate disease risk, predator pressure, and the complexity of maintaining a healthy flock. Hens at the end of their laying cycle pose a particular challenge — keepers who cannot afford veterinary euthanasia may abandon or neglect them.

What You Can Do

Complete a poultry keeping course before starting a flock
Plan for end-of-lay hen management before acquiring birds
Provide secure predator-proof housing and runs
Register backyard flocks with agricultural authorities as required
Know your local avian vet before you need one