Pullets to Layers – Ensuring a Smooth Transition in Cage-Free Systems

As the global egg industry moves steadily toward cage-free production, ensuring a successful transition from rearing to laying is more critical than ever. Hy-Line pullets raised in environments that prepare them for the complexities of cage-free layer systems are far more likely to meet their full genetic potential, resulting in improved welfare, productivity, and sustainability. Below are key innovations and best practices that support a smooth and effective transition in cage-free operations.

The foundation of a successful cage free layer operation begins in the rearing phase. Matching the rearing environment as closely as possible to the laying house is essential. Pullets that learn to navigate vertical spaces, use perches, and locate feed and water in a multi-tier setup will be more confident and less stressed when moved to similar systems in the laying period. Inconsistencies between the rearing and laying environments can lead to increased floor eggs, poor nesting behaviour, and uneven flock performance.

The provision of perches, platforms and ramps during the rearing phase plays a pivotal role in effective movement and developing spatial awareness. These enrichments encourage birds to explore, jump, and fly; essential behaviours in aviary or barn systems. Proper perch design and placement also help to promote musculoskeletal development and reduce risks of keel bone damage later in life. Strategically introducing these elements in the first few weeks sets the stage for active, agile layers.

Ideally, birds should be transferred at 16 or 17 weeks of age, just before the onset of sexual maturity. This allows the birds to adjust to their new environment before egg production begins. Delayed transfer increases the risk of lower bodyweight gains, mislaid eggs, crowding issues, and stress-related behaviours. A pre-transfer assessment should focus on bodyweight and flock uniformity to ensure birds are well prepared for the critical first weeks in the laying house.

Lighting during rearing and post transfer is key to stimulating the onset of lay, training birds, and managing behaviour. Gradual daylength increases will accelerate sexual maturity, but this should be aligned with bodyweight targets to ensure the correct egg profile is achieved. After transfer, strategic light placement in roosting areas encourages birds to move up and use nests early in the day. Uniform light distribution and proper intensity help minimise mislaid eggs and piling behaviour, especially during this critical adjustment period.

In cage-free systems, ensuring that birds can easily access feed and water is crucial. The layout should mirror the rearing system where possible. Proper positioning of feeders and drinkers encourages vertical movement and helps maintain uniformity and weight gain. Transition diets should support the bird’s changing nutritional needs during this growth and development phase. Please consult with your local Hy-Line representative for more information.

Handling and transportation procedures must minimize stress to support a smooth transition. Staff should be trained in handling and vaccination techniques to ensure bird stress is minimal. All vaccinations should be completed prior to transfer to avoid immune suppression or delayed onset of lay. During the transit period, it is important to consider temperature and humidity levels and ventilation availability so that bird welfare can be carefully managed.

The first 2–3 weeks post-transfer are critical. During this period, birds are establishing routines related to feeding and drinking, roosting, and laying. Regular feed and water intake checks, bird behavior, floor and system egg monitoring, nest training and health observations should be intensified. Any early issues such as piling, feed refusal, or excessive floor eggs, should be addressed immediately to avoid long term impacts on performance and welfare.

Investing in a smooth pullet-to-layer transition pays dividends across the production cycle. Well-prepared birds not only produce more consistently and efficiently, but they also experience fewer injuries, reduced stress, and better feather condition throughout lay. This will lead to lower mortality, higher egg quality, and increased profitability in your Hy-Line layer. By aligning systems and maintaining close oversight during this phase, producers can unlock the full potential of their flocks and future-proof their operations in a rapidly evolving global market.