Hey there, farm enthusiasts! Imagine a picturesque farm where chickens roam freely, their feathers glistening in the warm sun. These delightful birds scratch and peck at the rich, earthy soil, unearthing hidden treasures like seeds and insects. As they forage, their cheerful clucks fill the air, creating a lively symphony of sounds that resonates with the heart of nature.
This image captures the essence of free-range chicken farming, a practice gaining traction in the Philippines for its ethical, sustainable, and practical benefits.
Whether you’re a farmer looking to enhance your practices or a consumer keen on understanding how your food is produced, this guide walks you through the basics of how to raise free-range chickens in the Philippines. It’s a method that benefits not just the chickens but also the environment, farmers, and consumers alike.
What is Free-Range Chicken Farming?
According to the Philippine National Standard from the Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards (PNS/BAFS 262:2018), Free Range is a system of production that raises chickens in a confined environment while allowing the birds to exhibit their natural behavior and allowing them access to forage, grasses, insects, and sunlight. It is further classified into either: pasture-raised, where adult birds are kept on pasture for 12 months in an outside area mainly covered with living vegetation, and traditional free range which is a method of production that exceeds the minimum requirements for free range production.
Free-range chicken farming allows chickens to live a life closer to their instincts. Unlike conventional methods that confine chickens to cramped cages, free-range farms provide ample outdoor space for the birds to roam freely, forage for insects and plants, and soak up well-needed sunshine on some good days. This not only improves their physical environment but also significantly impacts their health and quality of life.
4 Advantages of Free-Range Chicken Farming
Free-range chicken farming offers a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond the coop. Here are four key advantages that make this method a compelling choice to make when running a poultry farm:
- Healthier Chickens, Tastier Eggs: Free-range chickens are happier chickens. The stress-free environment with ample space to move strengthens their immune systems and overall health.
Additionally, their varied diet of insects, plants, and grains translates to nutrient-rich eggs. Studies have shown that free-range eggs often boast higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants compared to conventionally produced eggs. The result? You get eggs that are not only good for you but also bursting with flavor. - Ethical Treatment and Improved Animal Welfare: Ethical considerations are a significant concern for many consumers today. Free-range farming directly addresses this concern. Chickens raised in free-range environments experience lower stress levels, have stronger immune systems, and live in a more humane setting that allows them to express their natural behaviors.
This commitment to ethical practices translates to a positive perception of the farm, potentially attracting more consumers who are willing to pay a premium for products that align with their values. Happy and healthy chickens raised in a stress-free environment ultimately contribute to a more responsible and ethical agricultural industry. - Economic Advantages for Farmers:Free-range chicken farming can be a financially rewarding choice for farmers. Initial setup cost is cheaper compared to the tunnel-ventilated type of housing due to readily available materials like bamboo for flooring, cogon leaves or coconut leaves roofing
Free-range eggs and chicken meat typically command premium market prices due to their superior quality and the ethical practices involved in their production. Consumers are increasingly willing to pay more for sustainable, and healthier products that prioritize animal welfare. Additionally, the reduction in feed costs and medication cost due to the chickens’ ability to forage outdoors can significantly lower overall farm expenses, making free-range farming an economically viable option. - Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices: Free-range chicken farming champions sustainability. By allowing chickens to forage outdoors, farms lessen their dependence on commercially produced feed. Chickens can consume natural food sources like insects and greens, reducing the farm’s ecological footprint.
Also, free-range farms frequently adopt organic procedures, which reduce the need for artificial fertilizers and pesticides. The hens’ natural foraging patterns also help to improve soil health by increasing biodiversity and reducing the need for artificial soil treatments. Free-range farms that use sustainable practices assist the environment while also meeting the growing customer demand for eco-friendly and ethically produced food.
Community and Environmental Impact of Free-Range Chicken Farming
As mentioned above, the benefits of free-range chicken farming extend beyond the farm gate. By supporting free-range farms, consumers are not just choosing tastier and healthier food but actively contributing to a more sustainable and ethical food system. Free-range practices promote biodiversity, reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and contribute to healthier soil. This, in turn, benefits the surrounding communities and the environment as a whole.
The transition to free-range chicken farming involves considerable planning and study.
- Land and Coop Setup:Ensure you have ample outdoor space for your chickens to roam freely, ideally at least 2 birds per square meter for the ranging and 10 square meters per bird for the housing.
The range area must be actively managed to:- Encourage birds to use the range area fully;
- Maintain vegetation quality;
- Prevent and/or manage muddy/worn/soddy areas;
- Prevent chickens from coming into contact with any toxic substances;
- Minimize any build-up of parasites or other disease-causing organisms; and
- Offer protection and cover to the birds while they are ranging.
Invest in sturdy and well-ventilated coops to protect them from predators, and extreme weather, and provide a haven for roosting and laying. Designate specific foraging areas within the outdoor space, such as areas with lush grass, insect-rich patches, and access to shade trees. Provide dust baths for your chickens to keep their feathers clean and healthy. - Selecting the Right Breeds: Choose chicken breeds that are well-adapted to free-range environments in the Philippines. Look for breeds that are hardy, good foragers, and good layers if egg production is a primary goal. Consider breeds like the Naked Neck, Kadaknath, Color Yield and the Redbro.. Bounty recommends the French breed (color yield) for the growing of free-range chickens.
- Feed and Nutrition:While free-range chickens can obtain a significant portion of their nutrition through foraging, supplemental feed is crucial to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients. Opt for high-quality, locally sourced feed that is free from antibiotics and hormones. The diet of the broiler, layer, and native-type chickens should be at least 50% cereal/grains, with the rest coming from forage, grasses, insects, and other supplemental feeds.
- Disease Prevention and Biosecurity:Conduct regular inspections of your flock to identify any signs of illness early on. Implement basic biosecurity measures such as restricting access to the farm, disinfecting equipment and footwear, and isolating sick birds. Consult with a local veterinarian to determine the appropriate medication and vaccination schedule for your flock.
By carefully planning and implementing these steps, you can successfully transition to free-range chicken farming and enjoy its numerous benefits, from healthier chickens and tastier products to a more sustainable and ethical farming practice.
Why Free-Range Chicken Farming Works in the Philippines
The Philippines’ tropical climate makes it an ideal location for free-range farming. With ample sunlight and space in rural areas, chickens can thrive outdoors. This method aligns perfectly with the country’s agricultural heritage, where agriculture is deeply rooted in tradition and community.
Additionally, as consumer awareness grows, demand for healthier, ethically produced food increases. Free-range chicken farming addresses this demand while offering a sustainable solution for farmers who want to stand out in a competitive market. It’s a win-win for everyone involved: farmers, consumers, and, of course, the chickens.
At Bounty, we’re committed to empowering Filipino farmers to adopt sustainable and ethical farming practices. Our experience in the poultry industry has shown that free-range farming is more than just a trend; it’s a sustainable way forward that benefits both businesses and communities.
We offer resources, training, and support to farmers who want to transition to free-range practices. Whether you’re an experienced farmer or just starting, we can help you set up and optimize your free-range farm for success. Together, we can create a future where ethical farming becomes the norm and everyone benefits from better-quality products.
Visit our website at bounty.com.ph to explore how we can help you get started. From practical guides to premium poultry solutions, we’re here to support your journey toward sustainable farming. Let’s work together to raise healthier chickens, produce better food, and make a positive impact on our communities.
