Chickens are descended from dinosaurs, yet the most abused creatures on earth. In nature, they forage and dust-bathe and sing to chickens in the womb. Yet we have factory-farmed chicken, cock-fighting, abandoned pet chickens and roosters and battery eggs. Our bird friends are now so overbred, there are now around 25 billion chickens on earth.
The best way to help chickens is simply not to eat them, or their eggs. Most chicken on sale has ‘hock burns’ caused by ammonia that is cut away, as consumers are now up on their welfare checks. Visit Compassion in World Farming and Save the Chickens Foundation for more information.
Understanding Hen Behaviour
Hens have a ‘pecking order’ to maintain peace in the flock. When hens live as they should, this works well with no fighting, letting less dominant birds retreat when they want to. Hens are very curious who love to explore, forage and dust-bathe, so letting them dig and scratch is key to happiness. Scatter grains, seeds and vegetables around their coop or run, and they will thrive.
Hens need specific nutritents to stay well like protein and calcium (for strong eggshells). It’s wise to consult a hen-friendly vet to tailor their diet according to their specific needs. Hens like to eat two or three times a day, with a consistent feeding routine.
Creating a Comfortable Living Environment
Hens thrive in a safe comfortable environment. Ideally two or three hens will live with one rooster, and they need lots of space to roam, nest and relax, plus runs that are safe from predators, and a coop to nest at night. Quality safe bedding will absorb moisture and provide warmth, and it must be regularly cleaned without chemicals.
Adopting Ex-Battery Hens (and Roosters)
If you have the right amount of land and suitable premises, you could adopt ex-battery hens (and roosters) via British Hen Welfare Trust and other charities that work with farmers.
Note this is not an easy job, as you have to ensure enough space and knowledge to prevent pecking, and keep areas safe from predators. Specialist food is often needed, as most hens are not in a good way, when released from the battery farming industry.
Let’s All Keep Chickens is a good guide from a world expert on chicken-care, which covers all the basics including how to keep chickens healthy and avoid pecking. Also learn how to speak chicken, which will make care all the more easier!
Keep Prey Animals Safe from Foxes
Prey animals (chickens, rabbits etc) are not just at risk from foxes, but other creatures like badgers and rats. Foxes are very good predators (and can strike any time of day or night) but know they are not killing chickens due to cruelty, but following instincts to feed themselves and cubs. Foxes rarely starve as they are scavengers, so keeping hens safe won’t cause them to go hungry.
British Hen Welfare (which rescues ex-battery hens designed for slaughter) has tips on their website to keep chickens safe from predators. Obviously you need a large chicken-friendly coop with fencing so hens are free to roam and be happy, but secure from predators (be careful to use safe netting).
Never leave hens overnight, put them to bed at dusk (and keep them in secure runs, if you are going out for the day). Always check your coops and runs for damage, high winds or snow can weaken areas like roofs. Fixed runs should be at least 5 ft high and laid on grass at right angles, to prevent predators digging underneath (in Scotland, runs have netting on top to deter birds of prey). Also don’t house near overhanging branches, which foxes can use to gain entry.
Wisdom We Can Learn from Chickens!
Chicken Therapy is a delightful book packed with gorgeous illustrations, but also gleaned wisdom from our hen friends, whether they greet the day, explore new surroundings or tend to their chicks. Penned by a ‘self-proclaimed chicken lady’ from the US Pacific Northwest, example wisdom includes:
- Even if you can’t fly, don’t be afraid to stretch your wings. You may just get off the ground after all!
- Listen to the squawk of others. There really may be a hawk flying overhead.
- You don’t have to have a huge house and lots of possessions, to be happy. Your small coop is adorable, comfortable and a wonderful home.
- Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Connect with others and find your flock.
