Researchers ask: Are caged chickens miserable?

DES MOINES, Iowa - Scientists are trying to use research to take the emotions out of an angry debate over the welfare of caged egg-laying chickens.

At issue are small cages that can be shared by up to nine hens. About 96 percent of eggs sold in the United States come from hens who live in so-called battery cages throughout their brief lives.

Public opinion appears to side with those who contend the cages are cruel to chickens as caging is being regulated in states such as California and Michigan. But producers say caged hens are healthier.

Peter Skewes of Clemson University is comparing how different housing affects egg-laying hens. He says there are plenty of ``emotional'' opinions about caging hens but few are based on facts.