Devon residents urged to open their gardens to hens in need of new homes

A Totnes volunteer is encouraging people across Devon to consider giving ex-commercial hens a second chance at life by adopting them into their gardens.

Jennifer Compton, who works with the British Hen Welfare Trust (BHWT), says the rewards are immeasurable. “They bring so much joy,” she explained.

The BHWT is a national charity that rehomes thousands of hens every year from egg farms into back gardens. Jennifer has seen first-hand how the birds quickly become beloved pets. “A friend took four hens at the last BHWT rehoming event,” she added. “Now when she steps into the garden they run to her. They get used to you, and they become friendly. She’s hooked.”

The charity is now urgently seeking homes for 350 hens at a rehoming event in Rose Ash, near Exmoor, on September 20th. Anyone wishing to adopt must register online at bhwt.org/hen-adoption by 4pm on September 19th.

All the birds need is a fox-proof home, food, water, and a little TLC. In return, the BHWT says, they make affectionate companions and may even provide the occasional egg.

Gaynor Davies, Head of Welfare and Operations at the charity, 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’re in Devon, or nearby, and fancy offering a home to some hardworking hens – who will continue popping out the occasional egg – please get in touch as soon as you can.”

The BHWT was founded in 2005 by Jane Howorth, who was awarded an MBE in the 2016 New Year’s Honours list. Since its launch, the charity has found retirement homes for more than one million hens that would otherwise have been slaughtered after their commercial laying days were over.

In fact, the charity’s one-millionth hen was rehomed last year by none other than His Majesty King Charles III.

Today, the BHWT operates with around 1,400 volunteers and 48 collection points nationwide, including in Devon. Alongside rehoming, the charity also campaigns to raise awareness about the hidden use of caged eggs in processed foods like pasta, cakes, quiches, and mayonnaise, helping consumers make more informed choices.

To adopt hens, visit bhwt.org.uk/hen-adoption and click ‘adopt’ next to the nearest location, or call the BHWT Rehoming Team on 01884 860084.