Combining poultry with forestry

In agroforestry systems, poultry can play a significant role, offering synergies between animal welfare, land management, and economic diversification. Trees provide essential shelter from wind and rain prevalent in the Irish climate, and shade during the summer, reducing heat stress. This improves poultry welfare and enhances productivity, especially for free-range and organic systems. The natural cover from trees also encourages foraging and dust-bathing behaviours, contributing to healthier birds. Additionally, tree canopies and dense vegetation reduce the visibility of aerial predators like hawks while providing safe spaces to hide from ground predators.