MERCED COUNTY, Calif. -- An animal rights group that accused two Central Valley egg farms of animal abuse wants voters to support a measure requiring less restrictive enclosures, officials said.

The Chicago-based animal rights group Mercy for Animals infiltrated two egg-production facilities in Merced County owned by Turlock-Based Gemperle Farms to conduct a two-month-long investigation.

During the investigation, video footage and photos were taken of birds allegedly being stuffed into file-drawer-size cages and the removal of non-producing hens, the group said.

"We wanted to show what really happens inside these facilities on a daily basis when they don't think cameras are watching them, and that is horrific animal abuse," Nathan Runkle of Mercy for Animals said.

Now, the group wants California voters to support a November ballot measure that would require less restrictive enclosures for birds.

"The live their entire lives being unable to spread their wings, walk, or engage in natural behaviors," Runkle said. "These cages are inherently cruel and restrict basic movement for these animals."

Chris Myles, a spokesman for California Egg Farmers and Ranchers, said the images from the video are inconsistent and out of practice with the industry.

"The vast majority of eggs and other foods farmed in our state are raised in a humane, ethical and responsible manner," Myles said.

The animal rights measure qualified for the state ballot a few weeks ago.