London-based photographer Ed Thompson took these remarkable portraits to draw attention to the plight of hens in factory farms in the United Kingdom. Thompson explained that once these “battery farm” hens are 18 months old, they face sudden death because factory farmers consider them unproductive, even though they have another four years of life expectancy.
Fortunately for such hens, the British Hen Welfare Trust works with factory farmers to find homes for them. Since 2005 the registered charity has helped some 200,000 hens enjoy a second chance at life rather than go from cage to slaughter. Rescue hens only cost about $5, and provide fresh eggs throughout their lives – no small thing in tough economic times.
Rather than show shocking images of the inhumane conditions battery farm hens must endure, Thompson used humorous and heartwarming photos to spotlight their situation.
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