FREE range egg producers across Great Britain have planted more than one million trees to create a happy habitat for their hens.

Chickens derive from jungle fowl and behave naturally when provided with shade and shelter offered by the trees.

The British Free Range Egg Producers Association says its 400 members have planted more than one million trees over the past ten years.

Philip Twizell has planted around 4,000 trees and hawthorn hedges to provide shelter for his 16,000 hens at West Newbiggin Farm, near Darlington.

He said: "It certainly works in terms of encouraging the birds to come out of the house, the trees create a relaxed environment for them. It is hard to attribute the trees to an increase in egg production, but I think anything you can do to keep the birds stress-free is great.”

The vast majority of the farmers have met the cost of planting the trees themselves, recognising the benefits to their birds. Broadleaved trees have predominantly been planted because of the cover they offer but a variety of species found in English woodlands can be grown.

"We planted trees and hedges that were native to the surrounding area like ash, birch and rowan with a few sessile oak, elm, alder and cherry mixed in," said Mr Twizell, "The hedges are hawthorn, hazel, and goat willow which are now well established and bringing about additional environmental benefits.

"We’re involved in lots of things that enhance the environment but they don’t necessarily add any direct value to the business. We are custodians of the countryside and I feel they’re worth doing for the long-term benefit.”

Tree planting is only one of the ways many free-range egg farmers are investing in to improve both hen welfare and the bottom line of their businesses. Husbandry, housing and other wildlife initiatives all contribute to having happy hens.

To be free range the farm must provide at least one acre of field for every 1,000 hens. Flocks are free to roam over the pasture during the daytime and naturally move to the safety of indoors at dusk to roost overnight.