AROUND 150 former commercial egg-laying hens are up for adoption at a British Hen Welfare Trust (BHWT) rehoming event in Redruth on Sunday [October 5], with young families especially encouraged.

All hens are ex-caged and, having worked tirelessly for 18 months producing eggs for human consumption, face slaughter unless they can find a peaceful, free-range retirement.

Teacher, mother-of-three and BHWT volunteer Sarah Walker has rehomed dozens of hens over the years and says they make ideal family pets.

“Whenever my kids are feeling overwhelmed by school, I just say, ‘Hey, let’s go outside and feed the hens’. Suddenly we’re in the fresh air, no screens, back to nature. Collecting eggs has become a family ritual. They really are the best family pets.”

Many people are surprised by how affectionate and loving hens can be. “Veronica doesn’t see herself as a hen,” jokes Sarah. “She sits on your lap and literally purrs.”

Gaynor Davies, BHWT head of welfare and operations, said: “Our hens are so deserving of a second chance, which is why we’ve sent over one million off to new homes since 2005. If you fancy offering a home to some hardworking hens – who will continue popping out the occasional egg – please get in touch.”

In the UK there are approximately 16 million commercial hens kept in colony cages. The Devon-based charity was founded in 2005 and now has 48 collection points and 1,400 volunteers nationwide. It also educates consumers about caged hen eggs hidden in processed foods, like pasta, quiches, cakes and mayonnaise so they can make an informed choice when shopping.

Anyone looking to adopt just needs to offer these hens security, food and water and some TLC. Kind-hearted animal lovers must register their interest at bhwt.org.uk/hen-adoption by 4pm on Friday, October 3.