In Germany, chickens were caught for the first time using the gentle upright method of Eyes on Animals, instead of the conventional method of grabbing birds by one leg and letting them hang upside down. This innovative initiative was organized by the University of Hannover and the Niedersachsen ministry, seeking practical experience for an upcoming project on upright catching. Several individuals from German NGOs also participated.
Eyes on Animals provided practical training in advance and assisted during the catching process, which went very smoothly. Unlike the usual panic associated with conventional methods, the chickens were calm, with just a bit of clucking.
Tonight, crates with side doors were used, a more common practice in Germany than in the Netherlands where crates often only have a top door. These side doors proved effective, eliminating the need to stack and unstack crates.
Thanks to the German farmer and all participants for making this happen. We are pleased that the gentler upright method, pioneered in the Netherlands, is now also spreading to Germany!
