What are the problems with chick-hatching projects?Â
- Because of the artificial conditions in a classroom incubator, chicks may be sickly and poorly developed when they hatch.
- Once hatched, the chicks are unable to form a bond with their mother.
- Once their purpose has been fulfilled in the project, many chicks are killed.
- Animal rescue centres are often asked to rehome unwanted birds after the hatching projects have finished, straining their already limited resources.
- Hatching projects can reinforce the idea that animals are disposable objects instead of beings that require a lifetime of care and commitment.
- They present an unnatural and inaccurate picture of how birds are born and raised and do not involve the parents at all.
 Download our What’s wrong with hatching projects? information sheetÂ
Watch Neil Winn-Williams at Foal Farm Animal Rescue Centre describing the impact of hatching projects on animal sanctuariesÂ