Article 2
1. The definitions in Article 2 of Directive 98/58/EC shall apply where necessary. 2. In addition, the following definitions shall apply for the purpose of this Directive: (a) "laying hens" means: hens of the species Gallus gallus which have reached laying maturity and are kept for production of eggs not intended for hatching; (b) "nest" means: a separate space for egg laying, the floor components of which may not include wire mesh that can come into contact with the birds, for an individual hen or for a group of hens (group nest); (c) "litter" means: any friable material enabling the hens to satisfy their ethological needs; (d) "usable area" means: an area at least 30 cm wide with a floor slope not exceeding 14 %, with headroom of at least 45 cm. Nesting areas shall not be regarded as usable areas.