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A large study was done between 2001 and 2004 when battery hen treatment was under fire from animal right activists. Free range hens exposed to a litter based coop systems at night when roosting had greater incidence of illness and death because of infection and bacteria in the litter, be it straw or wood chips. Caged hens had less disease related deaths because litter dropped away from the wired cages they lived in.
Hygiene, bio-security and education reduces risk to bird health with litter based housing of free range hens.
What else can I help you with?
What are free range hens?
bchge
How much freedom do barn hens have?
Barn hens are limited to the space available within the structure of the barn or facility in which they are housed. While barn hens are not confined to cages, they are confined indoors to reduce exposure to predators and disease. Barn hens are NOT free range, they are cage free which seems to confuse many people.
What do you prefer Free range or battery?
free range, definitely. Ideally from my own hens!
What are battery eggs?
Eggs from battery hens, i.e. hens that are kept in cages (known as batteries) where several hens live together in one cage. These hens cannot roam freely as free-range hens can.
What free range eggs?
free-range" eggs produced by hens that are allowed to roam freely and are not confined to a cage. However, because production is limited, "free-range" eggs are more expensive
What are hens fed?
Hens that are kept in barns for most of their lives are fed crushed/milled grains mixed with animal-based proteins and mineral supplements. It's important that hens receive adequate calcium and phosphorus for good egg production and to keep the hens healthy.
Explain the difference between organic eggs free range and free run eggs vs supermarket eggs?
Confusing isn't it. Lets get this cleared up for you.Certified Organic eggs are eggs from hens who are fed a diet of organic foods. Grains that have not been grown with chemicals and the hens are not treated with medications. "Organic eggs" does not always mean the hens are free range or even free run. Organic eggs can come from chickens kept in cages all their life. They are just not fed with foods that have insecticide or chemical fertilizers applied while growing.Free range eggs. These eggs are collected from hens who have the run of the yard and can forage outside in fields and bushes. Free range means exactly that, the hens are free to go where they wish, free range hens sleep in a chicken coop at night safe from predators but are allowed out during the day to supplement their food with whatever they can find. Not all free range eggs are "organic" The free range hens can be fed with medicated grains, treated with health preventative medicines and can also eat greenery treated with chemical fertilizers, which makes them NON organic.Free run eggs. Sounds a bit like free range but there is a big difference. Free run eggs are from chickens who are not kept in cages but who are kept in large barns. These hens are allowed to roam around the interior of the barn but do not have access to fresh air, fresh food and greenery.
How do you find free range chickens' eggs?
Your hens should still lay in their nesting boxes, even after they are let out to free range. If they dont (are young/inexperienced) then they will lay werever they see fit. If your hens are ex-battery hens, they will not even lay in boxes; they just drop eggs were they are standing. (If you dont keep the door to the coop open, you should!)
When is it safe to let hens free range and feel safe?
Hens can safely free range when they are fully feathered, typically around 6-8 weeks old, and have acclimated to their environment. It's crucial to ensure their surroundings are secure from potential predators, such as dogs, cats, and birds of prey. Providing sheltered areas and hiding spots can help hens feel more secure while foraging. Additionally, supervising them during their free-range time can further enhance their safety.
Do hens have predators?
Yes, hens have several natural predators, including foxes, raccoons, hawks, and snakes. These animals may prey on hens, especially when they are free-range and more exposed to the wild. Additionally, domesticated hens can be vulnerable to feral cats and dogs. To protect hens, it's important to provide secure housing and a safe environment.
Are battery-farmed hens healthier than free range hens?
The average life-span of a Battery hen is one year if they are lucky. Many are starved by farmers to gte them to lay more eggs, others die when they have there beaks removed as chicks. Visit RSPCA for more info.
Where would you find hens on their nests on a poultry farm?
Usually in the chicken coop. You can often find hens in the barn if they are free range as they will go in there to nest in the loose hay. A quiet dark area is the best place to look.
