Farm Animal Welfare

Hen Welfare and Perch Design

Perch design significantly affects keel bone health, foot welfare, and behaviour in laying hens. Evidence-based perch design can substantially reduce injury and improve welfare.

Key Facts

Keel bone fractures affect the majority of hens in many production systems
Perch diameter, material, and height all influence keel bone injury rates
Rounded, padded perches reduce foot pad pressure and injury
Perch positioning affects falling risk, especially in older or heavier birds
Good perch design reduces injurious pecking by providing enrichment

Welfare Considerations

Perch design is a tractable welfare intervention with significant potential impact on keel bone health and foot welfare. Evidence-based improvements to perch standards are achievable across production systems.

What You Can Do

Support certification schemes with perch design requirements
Choose eggs from producers with strong keel bone welfare records
Advocate for evidence-based perch standards in laying hen legislation
Learn about keel bone injury as a major welfare issue in laying hens