If you spend enough time around hens, you’ll notice they’re far more complex than most people realise. Behind every delicious Yallamundi Farm egg is a hen with natural instincts that have been shaped over thousands of years – and here at Yallamundi, we like to nurture those instincts!
We believe allowing hens to express these behaviours improves their wellbeing, which in turn improves our land and the eggs they produce. Here’s how those natural habits help them stay happy and healthy.
Taking part in a daily treasure hunt
Hens are natural foragers, and left to their own devices they spend hours scratching the ground in search of seeds, insects and tender shoots. When hens have the space to forage, they stay more active, which supports their bone strength and keeps boredom at bay. Scratching the ground also adds to the health of our soil, meaning the hens’ daily forage contributes to a brighter future for the planet.
Enjoying a spa treatment for hens
One of the most charming behaviours hens display is dust bathing. They’ll kick up dry soil and wriggle through it until they’re coated from beak to tail – it looks messy, but it’s essential for feather health. At Yallamundi Farm our paddocks have loose soil, sunny patches and sheltered spots to give hens the freedom to indulge in this instinctive ritual.
Finding a safe perch at sunset
As the sun goes down, hens instinctively seek a perch off the ground where they can safely rest. Roosting isn’t just about comfort – it supports proper foot and leg health, and helps the flock settle into a natural day–night rhythm. At Yallamundi, our innovative sheds are a welcome spot for hens to come and rest after a busy day in the paddock.
Spending time as a social group
Hens are social creatures that thrive in stable flocks. They communicate with dozens of vocalisations, from soft clucks to triumphant crows after laying an egg, and each group develops its own pecking order that helps keep the peace.
Because our hens roam near our bustling biodiversity corridor, they interact with other members of the natural world. From birds to butterflies and many more creatures, the hens’ days are enriched by having a vibrant environment filled with life.
Why natural behaviour matters
Allowing hens to express their natural instincts is all part of our commitment to outstanding animal welfare here on the farm. It reduces stress, supports healthy immune systems and results in more resilient hens, whilst also providing the benefit of improving the land. We believe it all has a direct impact on the quality of the eggs we produce – the healthier our land, and the healthier and happier our hens, the more delicious and nutritious their eggs are.