People interested in keeping poultry should ensure they are able to provide for their birds’ physical, health and behavioural needs, find a veterinarian who specialises in poultry or avian medicine and be familiar with their local Council Bylaws before adopting poultry.

Chicken and other poultry are social species and need the company of their own species. Chickens need a clean, secure indoor area that provides them with a place to shelter, roost, and lay their eggs in nest boxes. Chickens need a safe outdoor range with suitable artificial or natural shelter to provide them with shade and sufficient space to allow them to exercise, stretch and flap their wings, scratch and dustbathe.

Ducks and geese need a secure indoor area to shelter, sleep and lay their eggs. Ducks and geese need a safe outdoor range with suitable artificial or natural shelter to provide them with shade and shelter and sufficient space to allow them to exercise, stretch and flap their wings. Ducks and geese also require a water source which allows them to immerse their full body and perform natural water-related behaviours.

SPCA opposes the use of ‘rooster collars’ (devices which restrict the throat of the rooster) to prevent crowing.

Crowing is a natural behaviour of roosters. Roosters typically respond to the fitting of rooster collars or bands with behaviour which indicates discomfort and distress. It is also possible to over-tighten these collars, even if following the manufacturer’s instructions, which can lead to accidentally killing roosters by obstructing their airways.