Production Systems Related to Free Range Management of Laying Hens

Abstract

In Australia, free-range housing of laying hens enjoys a large variety of production systems. Hens may be housed on litter floors, slats, an aviary system, or a combination of the above. The outdoor environment may be managed using fixed ranges, rotational ranges, or portable sheds (Ruhnke et al., 2015). Each production system has different impacts on layer health, welfare, and performance. Matching the rearing with the housing system, modifications of the hen house, and environmental enrichment can significantly reduce the stress level of the individual hen (El-Lethey et al., 2000).