Give retired hens a forever home – before Friday

Zoe Gater

Could you offer a loving home to some joyful characters? Friendly, curious, and surprisingly affectionate, hens make brilliant pets – and they reward their keepers with the occasional fresh egg too.

This spring, the British Hen Welfare Trust (BHWT) is offering a special opportunity to give 200 ex-commercial laying hens the retirement they truly deserve.

On Sunday 12 April 2026, the Guildford rehoming event will welcome these resilient hens into loving new families – but their next chapter can only begin if animal lovers register by 2pm on Friday 10 April.

After spending their first 18 months producing eggs for supermarkets without pause, these hens’ commercial careers are over. Yet they still brim with curiosity, personality, and affection – ready to bring joy and warmth to those who open their hearts to them.

BHWT wants people to know that these gentle, funny, and curious birds make wonderful companions – with personalities as distinct as any pet cat or dog.

Andy Hill from the BHWT says: “People are often surprised by how much joy hens bring. They’re funny, curious little characters, they love routine, and they’re genuinely a delight to care for. Plus, they’re still more than happy to pop out the occasional egg.

“With spring finally here, this is the ideal time to start. These girls are more than ready for a fresh beginning, and they really do make wonderful pets.”

If you’d like to welcome some feathered friends into your home, register by 2pm on Friday 10 April to attend the rehoming event on Sunday 12 April.

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

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