Overview

Nesting boxes, perches, and outdoor access are essential components of humane housing, yet they are also some of the most challenging features for farms aiming to meet advanced welfare standards. These elements directly influence hen behavior, comfort, and overall health—and are required for high-welfare certification systems such as Certified Humane.

Since the FARMS Initiative Responsible Minimum Standards do not specify requirements for nests, perches, or outdoor access, this guide focuses on the more detailed, internationally recognized standards from Certified Humane. It provides practical guidance to help farmers understand what is required, why it matters, and how to design housing systems that support better welfare and long-term farm sustainability.

Proper housing design plays a major role in ensuring hen welfare, and meeting advanced standards often requires intentional upgrades to nesting boxes, perches, and outdoor access. This guide simplifies the process, helping farmers understand what is needed and how to apply it on their farms.

After reading, you will learn:

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• How to design effective nesting boxes, perches, and outdoor areas that support natural behaviors and improve flock comfort.
• The differences between FARMS Initiative standards and Certified Humane requirements, and how these influence farm design.
• Practical tips and design considerations to implement improvements that enhance welfare, support certification readiness, and strengthen farm sustainability.

Read on to explore how thoughtful housing design can help your hens thrive while positioning your farm to meet global humane standards and gain greater market credibility.

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