Natural cover
The implementation date for the provision of 20% natural cover has been extended for an additional year from 1 May 2026 to 1 May 2027 to allow members two full planting seasons to grow the required trees and shrubs.
However, we are aware that in some regions, it’s difficult to grow trees and shrubs. Members in this situation are encouraged to raise this with our farming and technical engagement team so we can advise on arranging for an independent expert review and provide advice on alternatives that will work for their specific environment.
We will also be providing members with examples of natural cover and help guide them on how to implement the standard. We’ll develop these with the help of the producer working group.
Providing natural cover on the range area, such as trees and cover crops has been shown to increase range use by providing hens with a sense of security and creating a more enriching and naturally stimulating environment on the range. Research indicates that increasing natural cover on the range will increase range use and, therefore, reduce the risk of feather pecking as hens are engaging in natural behaviours. Increasing tree cover or cover crops on the range will make the range area less attractive to species that pose a greater risk of Avian influenza, such as waterfowl. Some retailers require 20% of natural cover, and we have positive feedback about the benefits of this for bird range use.
*Increasing natural cover shouldn’t increase the risk of predation from animals such as birds of prey and foxes. The standards require that all producers have a written Wild Animal Control Plan to humanely manage high levels of potentially harmful wild animals (e.g. rodents and birds) to protect the welfare of the flock.
How should natural cover be provided?
- in the form of existing or newly planted trees/shrubs/other canopy-forming plants,
- at an area equal to at least 20% of the total range area by 1 May 2027.
The following features of any natural cover provision are important in encouraging ranging:
- Vegetation should provide canopy cover and shade and shelter the hens
- Vegetation should not obscure the view of the rest of the range
- Vegetation should not be so thick as to prevent birds from seeing into it (and to prevent potential predators from being seen)
- To satisfy Standard R 5.1, canopy cover must be provided
Long grasses
Many long grasses are not considered suitable to meet the standard as they do not provide canopy cover. Dense, long grasses may actually prevent birds from ranging as they provide good cover for predators such as foxes. In addition, there may be issues around bird health and management to consider, such as an increased risk of worm burden, crop impaction and egg laying outside. N.B. Corridors or strips of long grass may encourage birds to enter the range and can provide enrichment by increasing foraging opportunities. Strips of long grass may, therefore, be used to satisfy Standard R 5.2, requiring outdoor forage provision, but if they do not offer overhead shelter, they cannot satisfy Standard R 5.1.
Choosing trees, shrubs and crops for canopy cover
Cover should be planted as close as possible to the pop holes to encourage birds to range. As close as 5 meters is recommended, although this will depend upon your site. Variety is important, and planting a range of trees, shrubs and/or crops on your range will provide added interest and enrichment for the birds.
Trees: Birch, alder, rowan and willow are all fast-growing, hardy trees that will perform well in poor soils and exposed conditions. Rowan and Birch provide a light canopy cover that will not require pruning. Light canopy will allow other plants to grow at ground level, providing additional enrichment for hens.
Shrubs: Hawthorn, elder and dogwood provide fast-growing, hardy cover. Hawthorn does not have a large root system, which may make it suitable for less permanent sites.
Crops: There is a wealth of useful information regarding game cover crops that can help you decide which crops might be suitable for your site. Perennial chicory, kale and dwarf sorghum have characteristics which may be considered suitable to satisfy the standard whilst remaining practical. Look for crops that stand well through winter, provide a good canopy and don’t grow too densely.