Animal lovers across Swindon and Wiltshire are being urged to consider giving a former commercial hen a home, with 147 birds still waiting to be adopted ahead of a rehoming event in South Marston.
The British Hen Welfare Trust (BHWT) will be rehoming ex-commercial free-range hens in South Marston on Saturday 19 September, but dozens of birds still need homes.
Anyone considering keeping hens is being encouraged to register as soon as possible, with adoption bookings closing at 3pm on Friday 18 September.
The hens are typically around 18 months old and are reaching the end of their commercial laying lives. However, the charity says this does not mean they are at the end of their lives as pets.
With appropriate care, the hens can enjoy many more months or years scratching, dust-bathing, exploring their surroundings and settling into family life. They may also continue to lay the occasional egg.
Andy Hill of the British Hen Welfare Trust said: “People are often surprised by how much joy hens bring. They’re funny, curious little characters, they love routine, and they’re genuinely a delight to care for.
“We’ve still got 147 girls waiting for homes in South Marston on 19 September, so we’re really hoping people around Swindon and the surrounding area can help.
“These hardworking ladies have spent their commercial lives laying for us. Now they deserve a second chance and the chance to enjoy a happy retirement.”
Prospective owners need to provide a secure hen house and outdoor area, suitable food and fresh water, as well as regular care.
Because hens are sociable animals, the BHWT rehomes them in groups rather than individually.
The charity says former commercial hens can make rewarding pets, with their individual personalities becoming increasingly apparent once they have settled into their new surroundings.
People wanting to adopt from the South Marston event can register through the British Hen Welfare Trust website by selecting South Marston and clicking adopt.
Alternatively, the charity’s Rehoming Team can be contacted on 01884 860084.
Bookings close at 3pm on Friday 18 September.
