photo credit: glass window

Besides the ethical reasoning for allowing chickens to be raised in a free range environment is the health benefits they receive. Chickens who are allowed to live in an environment that provides for their natural needs can keep themselves healthy, while caged chickens are unable to meet their needs.

Chickens that can forage for worms and bugs when they need extra protein, grit to digest their food, and plant material for extra minerals are very able to regulate their own diet. Chickens with access to the dirt they use to give themselves dust baths are less prone to mites and lice. The ability to enter or leave their shelter as they see fit will prevent overheating. Chickens who are provided with a clean living area, fresh water and clean food are less prone to parasitic diseases.

Chickens who are allowed to live naturally are more easily monitored for health problems evidenced by changes in behavior and these problems can be caught earlier and remedied. When building a chicken coop it is important to keep the natural needs of the chicken in mind, and allow the chickens free range of an open space during the day.

Why Keep Free Range Chickens? via the Chicken Coup blog where you can get Backyard Chicken and Chicken Care news and info.

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