The fantastic run of cage free egg commitments from leading food companies in the UK clearly signals the beginning of the end for caged eggs. As producers make the transition to cage-free, it is vital that these systems are designed and managed to provide hens with a rich and stimulating environment, and a life that is truly worth living. This article highlights the key features of cage-free systems that should be incorporated.

A good laying hen housing system should allow for the expression of a wide range of behaviours. Perching, foraging and dustbathing are all behaviours that need to be fully provided for. Feather pecking behaviour must be minimised, not through mutilation of the beak but by providing the appropriate environment and good stockmanship. Rearing pullets in the same system as they will experience when in lay is also a vital part of ensuring good design and translates into real benefits for the birds (see our case study on this).

Higher welfare housing systems should include:

Functional space for birds to perform specific behaviours including perching, dust bathing, scratching, foraging and roosting up high at night
A veranda (covered outdoor area) which is essential for all barn systems and is a very good addition for free-range systems particularly for bad weather days
Adequate space to easily navigate the shed and reach any popholes
Nipple drinkers and mashed food to reduce feather pecking risk
Solid flooring in the shed with at least one third of the floor covered in dry friable litter
Perching space with at least 15cm per bird
Enclosed nest boxes with at least 1 per 5 birds
Colonies of no more than 4,000 birds
Shed enrichments such as string, hanging CDs and straw bales

Key features of cage-free systems for laying hens