Practice Abstract - Research and innovation

Chicken forest - semi-natural diversity in agroforestry (Network: Germany | Hof Hartmann, agroforest-monitoring, and IfLS)

The idea of the chicken forest - implemented by Hof Hartmann in Rettmer - demonstrates the combination of agroforestry and chicken farming: mobile chicken coops offer outdoor access for grazing and feeding, but also a safe place during the night and for laying eggs. Together with grassland, the agroforestry strips of poplars, willows and also berry bushes planted in 2016 provide a species-appropriate habitat for the chickens. The journey was a continuous learning process, leading to the addition of shade trees, inland fences, and the understanding that the chickens prefer grass to a certain length. In its current form, the chicken forest offers the animals plenty of space and protection from birds, wind, and sun. The trees improve the soil and microclimate, and the various shrubs and berries are a welcome change on the chickens' menu. Studies conducted as part of a citizen science approach by the agroforest-monitoring team of the University of Münster also show positive effects on biodiversity, from honey and wild bees to ground beetles, robins, and other birds as well as bats. Animal welfare is the primary focus of the chicken forest (cattle and alpacas also graze in the agroforestry system). The interaction of farmer, citizen scientists, agroforestry and chickens gradually creates a "symbiosis of man and nature".
As part of the MIXED project, a demo field day took place in cooperation with Hof Hartmann and the agroforst-monitoring team. The entire conception, elaboration, and implementation as well as any rights lie with Hof Hartmann and agroforst-monitoring.
Source Project
MIXED - Multi-actor and transdisciplinary development of efficient and resilient MIXED farming and agroforestry systems
Ongoing | 2020-2025
Main funding source
Horizon 2020 (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
Geographical location
Denmark
Project details

Project Keywords