The house of Mr and Mrs Van Thornhout in Guiseniers, France is equipped with two rows of three tiers and one row with four tiers. The house is suitable for 10,000 layers.

The system is also known as mini aviary, enriched cage or colony system. It gives a good overview of the hens, which results in optimal inspection and maintenance.

The large dimensions, especially the large width of this commune type cage system, requires fewer alleyways in a house, resulting in a higher hen capacity per house compared to the small conventional enriched cage systems.

The nests are placed in alternate corners left and right and provide protective surroundings in which the hens can comfortably and quietly lay their eggs. The chain feeding system is located inside the system so that the hens can access the feeder trough from both sides which results in optimal feeder space utilisation.

VolMaxx is equipped with perches which are located lengthwise along the side walls, which makes it easier for the hens to move through the system as compared to perches mounted perpendicular to the side walls. The scratch mat can be provided with feed which enhances scratching behaviour.

A second house will be equipped in Tunisia at the beginning next year. This house is suitable for 45,000 birds.

To find out more about the VolMaxx system from Jansen Poultry Equipment, click here.