7 ways to know you have a good free range

A good quality free range needs to be well-chosen and well-managed. It will have ideal ground conditions with free-draining soil that helps to keep hens’ feet clean and minimises parasite build-up. It will contain healthy plants that provide protein and other nutrients, and encourage insects and invertebrates. Birds will always have access during daylight hours unless prevented by bad weather or on veterinary advice.

7 ways to know you’ve got it right

• HENS will use the outdoor area freely and frequently.

• THERE will be minimal pugging, standing water and muddy, dusty or contaminated conditions, eg areas at risk of getting wet will be drained, and/or covered with a deep litter layer.

• THE area immediately around the barn will be managed to keep hens’ feet clean using slatted platforms and/or covered verandas, and/or areas of gravel or bark.

• THE range will be free from toxic plants and contaminants.

• THERE will be measures to prevent parasite build-ups, eg a system of range rotation in place that takes account of the type of soil, drainage and flock size.

• VEGETATION on the range will be maintained in good condition and nutrient build-up will be managed, eg soil testing, fertiliser and lime, paddock rotation.

• THE range will be enhanced, eg trees, shrubs, covered shelters, covered sand baths to encourage hens to use the whole area and to feel safe to move away from the barn.

Vegetation needs to be in good condition, and any potentially toxic plants removed