Farm Animals

Laying Hen Keel Bone Fractures - Science and Solutions

Keel bone fractures affect the majority of laying hens in cage-free and free-range systems, causing chronic pain and representing a major welfare priority.

Key Facts

Over 50% of cage-free laying hens have keel bone fractures, rising to 80% in some flocks
Fractures occur from collisions with perches, nest boxes and other structures
Fractures cause chronic pain detectable through gait analysis and pain scale indicators
Perch design, cage height and lighting management affect fracture rates
Genetic selection for stronger keel bones is progressing through selective breeding programmes

Welfare Considerations

Keel bone fractures are the most common injury in laying hens and represent a largely hidden welfare crisis. Addressing this requires combined engineering, genetic and management solutions.

What You Can Do

Ask retailers about keel bone fracture rates in their egg supply chains
Support research into perch design and genetic selection for keel bone strength
Choose eggs from farms participating in welfare improvement programmes