The general aim of the HealthyHens project is to promote good health and welfare in European organic laying hens. In this observational study all participating countries (Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Denmark, Sweden, Italy and The United Kingdom) collect data in an identical manner on approx. 107 organic laying hen farms distributed over the 8 participating countries. ILVO contributes by conducting observations and measurements on 8 organic laying hen farms in Belgium and focusses on health management, animal health and animal welfare as well as the negative impact of the direct environment. Farms are be visited twice, at peak of lay and end of lay, in two different seasons (spring/summer and autumn/winter). Data concerning housing, management strategies and animal health is collected by the use of interviews and questionnaires, direct measurements and farm documentation. Almost all farm visits are conducted in the second year of the project. After each farm visit fecal samples are analysed and autopsy is performed to count intestinal parasites. First results for all measured parameters show large variation between all farms visited so far. The data will be used for cross-sectional epidemiological analysis of parasite infestation, use of free range, feather pecking and injurious pecking, bone fractures- and deviations, and other health problems. Recommendations will be formulated based on analyses carried out. These recommendations will contribute to improved animal health, animal welfare and productivity in organic egg production systems, and to enhance economic competitiveness through improved bird health and performance.