Farm Animals

Poultry Range Quality and Hen Welfare

The quality of outdoor range significantly affects how much free-range laying hens actually use the outdoors, with profound implications for welfare label integrity.

Key Facts

Studies show only 15-50% of free-range hens regularly use outdoor range
Range use is highest where vegetation, shade trees and shelter structures are provided
Bare, open ranges are avoided by hens due to predator fear instinct
Hens using range show lower feather pecking rates and better plumage condition
UK free-range standards do not specify mandatory shade or vegetation requirements

Welfare Considerations

Free-range labelling without range quality requirements misleads consumers and fails to deliver welfare benefits. Minimum range quality standards are urgently needed.

What You Can Do

Look for free-range eggs with additional certification covering range quality
Advocate for mandatory vegetation and shelter standards in free-range egg labelling
Ask egg producers about the range design and use rates at their farms