[Md Abdul Bari]

The housing system for laying hens significantly influences their welfare, productivity, and overall well-being. Here’s an overview of how different housing systems impact these factors:

1. Cage Systems:

Welfare Impact: Traditional battery cages restrict hens’ movement and prevent them from performing natural behaviors like dust bathing, nesting, or perching, which can lead to stress, feather pecking, and higher mortality rates. However, enriched cages provide more space and elements for natural behaviors, improving welfare.

Productivity Impact: Hens in cage systems tend to have higher productivity due to less energy spent on movement and interactions with other hens. Eggs are usually produced more efficiently, but the long-term sustainability can be affected by the welfare concerns associated with these systems.

2. Barn Systems (Non-Cage or Aviary Systems):

Welfare Impact: Barn systems provide more space for hens to roam, perch, and forage, which enhances their well-being. However, hens may still face challenges such as aggression or competition for resources, leading to some behavioral issues.

Productivity Impact: The productivity in barn systems might be slightly lower than in cages due to hens’ increased activity and the challenges of managing their environment. However, improvements in welfare can lead to healthier hens and potentially longer productive lifespans.

3. Free-Range Systems:

Welfare Impact: Free-range systems are generally considered the best for hen welfare, as they provide access to outdoor areas where hens can engage in natural behaviors like scratching, pecking, and dust bathing. However, risks such as predation, disease exposure, and weather conditions can negatively impact welfare.

Productivity Impact: While free-range systems can result in lower egg production compared to confined systems due to hens’ more active lifestyle, the eggs produced may be of higher quality, and hens may have a longer productive life. The system can also be less efficient due to the need for larger space and more management.

4. Pasture-Raised Systems:

Welfare Impact: This system provides the most space and natural conditions for hens. They can roam freely, forage, and express a wide range of natural behaviors, which can significantly enhance their welfare.

[Muhammad Zeeshan Asghar]

@everyone Please

[Md.Rejuan Hossain]

Different housing systems for laying hens, from conventional cages to cage-free systems, impact welfare and productivity in unique ways, with each system presenting both advantages and disadvantages.