system was quite different then from what is called FR today. Laying hens were
kept on well drained hard wearing nutritious pasture at low stocking densities (about 250 birds/ha)
either in small mobile houses with slatted floors, usually arranged in rows that were moved frequently
(often weekly) across the field (image 1), or in small enclosures called fold units. The latter consisted
of a small house with an attached covered run; they were also usually in rows and were moved daily
(image 2). In both variations the hens normally used the house only for roosting at night and nesting
during the morning; they did, of course, also take limited shelter there in inclement weather. Fold units
also afforded some protection from predators. Feed, grit and water were always provided outside in
these extensive systems. The hens were often mixed with sheep to achieve better grazing and land
management. Robinson (1961) quoted estimates of feed savings of up to 10% by hens grazing on
good quality fresh young grass.