Hen House Design for Natural Behaviour: Light, Perches and Nesting

Laying hen welfare is significantly influenced by house design. Natural light, perch availability, and nesting provisions enable key behaviours and reduce welfare problems.

Key Facts

Laying hens require perches for roosting - birds denied perches show increased fear behaviours
Nesting boxes are essential - hens experience significant frustration when unable to nest before laying
Natural or simulated dawn-dusk lighting improves circadian rhythm and reduces aggression
Windows providing natural daylight improve hen welfare and reduce fearfulness
Artificial light intensity affects both production and welfare - bright continuous light increases aggression
RSPCA Assured standards specify minimum perch space, nest box ratios, and lighting requirements

Welfare Considerations

Hen house design is welfare infrastructure. The ability to roost at height, use a nest box for egg laying, and experience a natural light-dark cycle are fundamental welfare requirements. Hens denied nesting opportunities show pacing, stereotypic searching, and elevated corticosterone before forced floor laying. Good design transforms welfare by enabling natural behaviours that cannot be achieved through management alone.

What You Can Do

Choose eggs from farms where hens have access to natural light, perches, and nesting
Advocate for minimum perch, nest, and lighting standards to be strengthened in hen welfare regulations
Support producers investing in house design improvements that go beyond minimum standards