Javascript is either disabled or not supported by this browser. Javascript is either disabled or not supported by this browser. This page may not appear properly. They can spread their wings and run, or just fly up to perch on a higher branch. In a free range situation they have room to escape from the bullies of the flock, and continue on their way happily searching and scratching for feed, grubs and insects.
Hens wake up just on sunrise and go to bed of their own choice as it begins to get dark.
Hen's toenails are never very long, they are kept worn down from being allowed to scratch the ground and roam their paddocks. Hens love to dust bathe - this is their way of grooming and cleaning themselves. Having access to green feed in addition to a carefully formulated feed of poultry mash means not only is the free range hen getting a well balanced diet, it's that beautiful green feed that helps make those yolks so golden. In some cases up to three hens can be forced to share the one cage. In cages hens cant escape from the bullies, once a hen is picked on and blood has been drawn the other hens will continue to pick and peck at the bird, in most cases until premature death has been inflicted.