Schedule 3A, paragraphs 3 (c) (d), and (e), 4 and 5 (a), provisions applicable to laying hens kept in non-cage systems, of the Welfare of Farmed Animals (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2002 (S.I. 2002 No.1646) state that:
All systems must be equipped in such a way that all laying hens have:
- at least one nest for every seven hens. If group nests are used, there must be at least 1m2 of nest space for a maximum of 120 hens;
- perches, without sharp edges and providing at least 15 cm per hen. Perches must not be mounted above the litter and the horizontal distance between perches must be at least 30 cm and the horizontal distance between the perch and the wall must be at least 20 cm; and
- at least 250 cm2 of littered area per hen, the litter occupying at least one third of the ground surface.
The floors of installations must be constructed so as to support each of the forward-facing claws of each birds foot.
If systems are used where the laying hens can move freely between different levels -
- there shall be no more than four levels;
- the headroom between the levels must be at least 45 cm;
- the drinking and feeding facilities must be distributed in such a way as to provide equal access for all hens; and
-the levels must be so arranged as to prevent droppings falling on the levels below. |