September 11, 2008

Battery Cages in Brazil

Humane Society International

In Brazil, the majority of egg-laying hens are permanently confined in small wire enclosures called battery cages. Battery cages are so cramped that the hens cannot walk, exercise, or fully stretch their wings. Each hen has less space than a single sheet of letter-sized paper, where she must live her entire life. There are more than 70 million hens are confined in battery cages in Brazil.

Battery cages prevent nearly all normal behavior, including nesting, perching, and dustbathing, all of which are critically important to the hen. These cages also deny the birds normal movement to such an extent that the hens may suffer from physical ailments, including bone, reproductive, and liver problems.  For more information on the welfare of these chickens, see the HSUS Report on the Welfare of Animals in the Egg Industry.

Chickens are complex, social animals and good problem solvers who use their beaks the way we use our hands. Each hen has her own unique personality. These animals deserve better treatment than they currently receive on factory farms. We can all help reduce the suffering of these animals by taking some simple actions.

Take action

• Say NO to battery cage eggs
• Enjoy humane eating
• Watch a video about intensive confinement