What is wrong with this hen?

Photo: Ivan Dinev/CEVA

If hens are not fully able to stand, it could have one of these causes.

Ask yourself the following questions:  What do I see?   What does it mean?   What should I do?

This is Practical guide to improving egg quality

• LOOK: This hen can't stand on her feet properly.

• THINK: The hen has weak bones with risk of fractures, known as ‘cage-layer fatigue’ or osteoporosis. Too little physical exercise, insufficient calcium absorption, or both, lead to hen osteoporosis.

• ACT: Besides feed, a good blood circulation to the bones helps prevent osteoporosis. In aviary systems hens have enough exercise to ensure they have stronger bones and stronger eggshells at the end of the laying period.