RSPCA Assured has confirmed that a new welfare standard requiring natural daylight to be provided through popholes during housing periods will come into effect for all free-range flocks placed from 1 December 2026.

Standard E6.4 applies when birds are housed during daylight hours and cannot access the range, whether due to a compulsory housing order, bad weather, or veterinary advice. The standard requires that the natural daylight ordinarily entering the shed through open popholes is maintained whenever those popholes are closed. This means producers must make permanent modifications to their popholes to allow natural daylight to pass through even when birds are confined indoors.

The most straightforward solution is to fit transparent or translucent materials, such as toughened glass or acrylic panels, into pophole doors. These modifications must be permanent rather than temporary, as housing situations can arise at short notice and the standard applies whenever popholes are closed, including during routine maintenance. All popholes must be modified regardless of shed type, ventilation system, or whether windows are already present.

The RSPCA assured’s rationale is supported by laying hens’ demonstrable preferences for natural daylight. Hens rely on the full light spectrum, including UVA wavelengths, to support circadian rhythms, natural behaviour, and visual function. Birds kept under artificial light alone during housing periods lose access to a key component of their normal environment.

The standard applies to flocks placed on or after 1 December 2026, so producers with upcoming flock placements should be planning modifications now. Those with compliant verandas to which birds have continuous access while housed are exempt from the pophole requirement.

If you have any questions about housing management or the welfare implications of this standard, our veterinary team is happy to advise.