Free-range hens often fail to use outdoor ranges due to poor design - good range quality dramatically improves welfare by enabling natural behaviours.
The gap between free-range certification and actual welfare outcomes is most visible in range quality. Hens confined to sheds despite having theoretical outdoor access receive little welfare benefit from the label. Investment in cover crops, shrubs, artificial shelters, and multiple pop holes transforms range use. Certification schemes that audit range quality rather than just the existence of access drive genuine welfare improvement.