Farm Animal Welfare

Poultry Keel Bone Fracture Prevention

Keel bone fractures affect the majority of laying hens in commercial systems and cause chronic pain. Prevention is a major welfare research priority.

Key Facts

Up to 80% of laying hens in enriched colony cages have keel fractures
Free-range and barn systems have different but also significant rates
Fractures occur most often when hens land from perches
Bone density is affected by genetics, nutrition, and exercise
Pain assessment scales confirm fractures cause measurable discomfort

Welfare Considerations

Keel bone fractures cause chronic pain that suppresses normal behavior and reduces hen welfare. The extraordinary prevalence - affecting most hens in commercial systems - makes this one of the most significant welfare issues in egg production. Genetic, design, and management solutions are all being pursued.

What You Can Do

Choose eggs from farms with documented keel fracture monitoring programs
Support research into keel bone fracture prevention in laying hens
Advocate for keel fracture rates as a key welfare metric in egg certification
Learn about the difference between housing systems and keel fracture rates