Farm Animals

Laying Hen Keel Bone Fractures and Welfare

Keel bone fractures are the most prevalent injury in laying hens, affecting up to 80% of hens in some flocks. These fractures cause chronic pain and are a major welfare challenge in egg production.

Key Facts

Keel bone fractures affect 50-80% of laying hens in some aviaries and colony cages
Many fractures are sustained during collisions with perches, feeders, and other structures
Fractures cause chronic pain that affects feeding behavior, movement, and egg production
Breeding for heavier egg production has reduced bone density in commercial laying strains
Better perch design, lower stocking density, and selective breeding can reduce fracture rates

Welfare Considerations

Keel bone fractures represent a massive unrecognized welfare problem in egg production globally. Hens with fractured keels show behavioral signs of pain and alter their movement patterns to minimize contact with the injury. The problem is common across all housing systems including free-range but is particularly prevalent in multi-tier aviaries. Systematic breeding for bone strength and careful facility design are the most promising welfare solutions.

What You Can Do

Support egg certification schemes that actively audit and report keel bone fracture rates
Ask egg brands about their keel bone welfare monitoring and improvement plans
Advocate for keel bone fracture rates to be included in laying hen welfare standards
Reduce egg consumption or choose from smaller producers with lower-density systems
Support research into selective breeding for bone strength in laying hens