free-range chicken farming

Devi Larasati 125 views 15 hours ago 0 followers

Free-range chicken farming refers to a system where chickens are allowed to roam and forage outside of a confined space, rather than being kept indoors in small cages or overcrowded enclosures. The primary idea behind free-range farming is to provide chickens with more natural living conditions, including access to outdoor spaces, which can improve their welfare, health, and behavior. Here are some key characteristics of free-range chicken farming: 1. Outdoor Access: Chickens have access to outdoor areas where they can roam, peck, scratch the ground, and engage in natural behaviors like dust bathing. The size and quality of the outdoor space can vary depending on the specific farm and regulations. 2. Indoor Space: While chickens are allowed outdoors, they still have shelter in the form of barns or coops for protection from predators, the elements, and to lay eggs. 3. Feed and Water: Chickens in free-range systems are typically provided with supplemental feed and clean water, in addition to whatever they can forage outdoors. 4. Welfare and Health: The idea behind free-range farming is to improve animal welfare by reducing stress and allowing chickens to express natural behaviors. This can result in healthier and more robust birds. 5. Certification: In many countries, there are certifications or labels (like the "free-range" label) that guarantee certain minimum standards for outdoor access and farming practices. While free-range farming is often seen as more humane compared to intensive factory farming, the specific conditions can vary. The amount of time and space chickens are given outdoors can depend on the farm and local regulations, and not all free-range operations are the same.