REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE FOR HENS AT HEEFS
/by Andrea White, Animal Care Manager
With spring approaching and daylight hours increasing, we’re seeing more of the hens begin to lay eggs. This natural increase in egg-laying activity is triggered by the longer days and greater sunlight exposure, which activate their reproductive hormones. The majority of the hens here at the sanctuary are “laying hens,” a group that has been selectively bred over generations to produce an unnaturally high number of eggs for the benefit of commercial egg production. However, it places these hens at a much higher risk of reproductive health issues and diseases.
The Challenges of Reproductive Health for Laying Hens
The animal care team closely monitor the reproductive health of all our female birds. We keep track of who is laying eggs, and we also observe and document the health of each egg laid. Some signs that something might be wrong include changes in behavior (such as appearing unwell), poor-quality eggs, or visible signs like a distended belly. These could all be indicators of underlying reproductive issues.
Reproductive disease is a broad term that encompasses several health conditions that laying hens are particularly prone to. These conditions include:
Impactions: A condition where eggs or other material become trapped in the reproductive tract.
Egg Yolk Peritonitis: An infection caused when egg yolk leaks into the abdominal cavity, often following a rupture in the reproductive system.
Cancers: Laying hens are at a significantly higher risk of developing reproductive cancers due to their high egg production.
Specialized Care for Our Hens
When we notice any of these signs or suspect reproductive issues, we take immediate action. This often includes consulting with an avian specialist who may perform imaging such as a CT scan or ultrasound to assess the condition of the hen’s reproductive system. In more advanced cases, surgery may be required. One of the key interventions we use is a hormonal implant, which effectively halts egg production for a short time. This implant typically lasts for 3-4 months, after which it needs to be replaced. By stopping the egg-laying process, we can help reduce the strain on the hen’s reproductive system and prevent many of the health issues associated with egg production.
Empowering Our Team to Provide Better Care
Last year, we took an important step toward enhancing our care by training our caregiving team to administer the hormonal implants ourselves. This skill allows us to provide faster and more individualized care for the hens, saving them the stress of additional vet visits while reducing the time and costs associated with off-site care.
Why This Matters
At HEEFS, our commitment to the health and well-being of the residents in our care goes beyond just providing food and shelter. We recognize that reproductive health is a critical issue for laying hens, and we go the extra mile to ensure they receive the specialized care they need. By understanding and addressing the challenges these hens face, we’re able to offer them a safer, healthier life where they are free from the pressures of commercial egg production. We hope that by sharing the information in this article, you will better understand the complexities of reproductive health for hens and the important role we play in providing them with a compassionate and supportive environment!
