Farm Animals

Laying Hen Colony Cage Welfare: The Cage-Free Transition

Many countries are transitioning away from conventional battery cages toward colony or cage-free systems for laying hens. Understanding welfare differences is essential.

Key Facts

Conventional battery cages provide 550 sq cm per hen - less than an A4 sheet of paper
Colony cages offer more space but still restrict many natural behaviours
Cage-free aviaries allow perching, nesting, and dust bathing
Keel bone fractures affect over 50% of hens in some cage-free systems
Air quality in poorly managed cage-free barns can impair respiratory health
Corporate commitments to cage-free have driven significant industry transformation

Welfare Considerations

The cage-free transition improves welfare for important behavioural needs but introduces new challenges. Keel bone fractures in aviary systems cause significant ongoing pain. Flock size and management quality strongly influence outcomes. Truly high-welfare laying hen production requires individual attention alongside system improvements.

What You Can Do

Choose eggs certified to higher welfare standards like RSPCA Assured or Soil Association
Support corporate cage-free commitments through consumer pressure
Advocate for strong transition requirements that include keel bone fracture monitoring