Battery Hen Welfare Trust

"Working to inspire a free range future"

Patrons: Jamie Oliver, Harbour & Jones, Duchess of Richmond, Hens re-homed to date ... 185,517 Pam Ayres, Amanda Holden, Antony Worrall-Thompson

Adopt some ex-bats

The Battery Hen Welfare Trust re-homes thousands of battery hens each year and has collection points all over the country.

If you would like to adopt some battery hens:

We do not charge a set fee for our hens, but do ask for a donation and will advise you of the average donation we receive in your area when you reserve some hens. All donations cover our running costs with any surplus going towards our ongoing and successful work for a British free range future.

If you have neighbours please check with your local Council authority that you are entitled to keep chickens before adopting.

Take a look at our page on how to care for them CARING FOR EX BATS, (even if you have previous experience in hen keeping). Then contact your nearest Rescue Co-ordinator.

Some helpful hints for when you collect your hens:

Please ensure you have adequate ventilated accommodation to take them home. Cardboard boxes are fine, but require ‘windows’ as shown in this picture. Poultry crates, cat baskets and dog pens are ideal.

Have layers mash available and feed for a minimum of four weeks – it is what the hens are used to and will help them settle. It is fine to feed pellets and corn straight away so long as mash is also available.

Don’t forget directions to collect your hens. ( Also please try to arrive as near to your allotted time as possible – Re-homing Days can get very busy!)

Please avoid calling us on Re-homing Day as it is very likely we will be at the farm collecting your hens.

Finally, Re-homing Days are uplifting, rewarding, heartwarming and exhausting! Thank you for offering such a wonderful second chance to your hens; you have saved them from slaughter and we hope you enjoy them.