Farm Animals

Hen Feather Pecking: Causes, Prevention and Welfare Outcomes

Feather pecking in laying hens causes severe wounds and is a major welfare problem in commercial egg production.

Key Facts

Feather pecking affects up to 50% of flocks in some production systems
Provision of litter and foraging substrate is a key preventive measure
Severe feather pecking causes open wounds, blood loss, and death
Beak trimming reduces pecking damage but causes pain and reduces natural behaviour

Welfare Considerations

Feather pecking is not an inevitable consequence of hen farming - it reflects unmet needs. Flock management, litter access, appropriate stocking density, and breed selection can dramatically reduce its incidence.

What You Can Do

Choose eggs from certified higher welfare systems
Support research into feather-pecking prevention through management
Advocate for regulations requiring litter access in all commercial hen housing