Big Dutchman has acquired extensive experience in the design and operation of floor systems in the E.U. and in North America. With the expansion of barn, free-range and pasture housing the flexibility of the Natura® Step aviaries and the Colony 2+ system contribute to optimal performance and return on investment. 

Colony 2+ installations incorporate patented communal (group) laying nests and plastic slats increasing the salable eggs from a flock.  The Natura® Step system is compatible with either a barn installation or for housing a flock with daytime outside access during dark hours. Both systems have features that limit downgrades from soiled shells and cracks.  This is an important consideration given the average negotiated value of $7.54 per dozen for cage-free eggs over the first quarter of 2025.

Colony 2+ nests reduce labor requirements on contractor-operated farms. The nests offer a secure environment for hens reducing floor-laying to a fraction of one percent in flocks that are reared appropriately and acclimated to their laying environment after transfer.  The Colony 2+ nest incorporates a floor that tilts to 90 degrees during the dark period of the day or at preset intervals to exclude brooding hens and prevent soiling the plastic mat that is self-cleaning with each cycle of rotation.  The patented divided nest floor is initially raised in the center at the beginning of closing cycle allowing gentle roll-out onto the centrally-placed egg belt. The system incorporates belts located in the center of the nest bank with a short roll-out distance protecting shells from damage.  Colony 2+ systems can be supplied with either a gable roof with full-length open ventilation or a flat surface to increase available house area to maximize flock size in compliance with U.S. welfare standards.

The Natura® Step aviary installations can be retrofitted to existing houses or incorporated into the design of new barns.  The Step concept is based on strategically placed platforms that allow hens to move easily among tiers compliant with both E.U. and U.S. welfare requirements.  The Step configuration of tiers, together with platforms allow hens to alight and turn for ease of access when moving up or down the installation.

Big Dutchman Natura® Step aviaries were specified for the innovative prestige Kipster complex operated by MPS Egg Farms Inc. located in North Manchester, IN.  This farm comprising four units each housing 24,000 hens incorporates Big Dutchman Natura® Step aviaries installed in two rows on either side of a central floor area.  After two years of operation, the entire system conforming to U.S. welfare requirements has functioned according to specifications and is producing quality eggs sold at a premium in Kroger stores.   

Big Dutchman supplies feeding, watering, lighting and ventilation systems complementary to Natura® Step and Colony2+ systems to ensure optimal operation and production.  Big Dutchman systems are durable and are recognized for their prolonged working life.  Frames for Colony 2+ nests and Natura® aviaries are constructed of powder-coated steel and legs are fabricated from stainless steel.  Plastic slats are fabricated from virgin material that resist deterioration over time.  Nests are fabricated from laminated wood with a durable waterproof coating.  All sheet metal components are powder-coated over galvanized surfaces.

Big Dutchman, through its appointed distributors, can provide design layouts for retrofits and new houses.  Big Dutchman technical specialists are available to provide guidance for new and exiting producers for flock management, maintenance to optimize return on investment.