The RSPCA has highlighted the impact a national housing order on birds could have on poultry and what people can do to make sure they’re still buying higher welfare.
The warning comes as the government in England reintroduces strict rules to try and tackle the rise of Avian Influenza (AI).
Over the past year, the UK has experienced the worst outbreak of AI ever seen with high numbers of sick and dying birds being reported.
This has also had an impact on the farming industry, with all birds being housed indoors for the first five months of the year in order to prevent the spread of disease.
This week, a compulsory housing order has been extended across England, with Scotland and Wales keeping this measure under review, meaning all poultry and captive birds must be moved inside.
Kate Norman, poultry expert at the RSPCA, said:
"Similar to our previous lockdowns to help prevent Covid-19, these ‘flockdowns’ prevent birds from going out and mixing with others and spreading the disease.
“However, moving free-range birds — who could previously go outside — indoors can be very stressful for them.
“Where feasible, we also recommend poultry keepers consider building verandas as they can offer many welfare benefits and provide free-range birds with natural light, fresh air and more space during periods of mandated confinement.
"Investing in building these covered porches where they can enjoy natural lighting and a bit of fresh air, could make a huge difference to their welfare long-term.”
RSPCA Assured laying hens, which account for over 90% of all UK free-range eggs, will benefit from more enrichment items such as raised perches inside the barn to allow hens to peck, forage and express their natural behaviour.
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