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What is a Chicken?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

A chicken is a domesticated version of the Jungle Fowl, a wild bird native to the jungles of India and Southeast Asia. Chickens are the most abundant domesticated fowl in the world; a population survey in 2003 estimated the global chicken population to be around 24 billion. Humans have a long relationship with the chicken, using these birds as a source of nutritious eggs and meat, and also utilizing chickens for their feathers and as companion animals.

Formally, a chicken is known as Gallus gallus domesticus, referencing the fact that it is a subspecies of Gallus gallus, the wild Jungle Fowl. It is estimated that chickens were domesticated by 2,000 BCE, and possibly much earlier, with most evidence suggesting that the domesticated chicken originated in India. From India, chickens reached Europe through Greece, with the Romans bringing chickens along on their conquest of Europe. During the Age of Exploration, chickens went along for the ride as a source of food, thereby reaching the New World.

A roast chicken.
A roast chicken.

Female chickens are known as hens, with young hens being called pullets. Male chickens are roosters or cocks; when castrated, a male chicken becomes a capon. Baby chickens of either gender are chicks. Chickens have a social lifestyle, with a single rooster overseeing a flock of hens; hens usually incubate or brood only their own eggs, and they are responsible for raising their young. Chickens are also sexually dimorphic, with roosters typically being larger and more colorful than hens.

Brown and white chicken eggs.
Brown and white chicken eggs.

Most domesticated chickens are kept either for their eggs or for their meat, and sometimes both. Some breeds like the Jersey Giant are specifically geared towards meat production, with very heavy, fleshy bodies and a rapid maturation rate. Others are intended to produce high volumes of eggs, as is the case with Araucanas, Rhode Island Reds, and Minorcas, among many others. Heritage chicken breeds ranging from the diminutive Bantam to the aristocratic Lakenvelder have historically been kept for eggs and meat, and as companion animals.

A chicken and egg.
A chicken and egg.

Although many people think of the chicken primarily as a source for food, in fact some chicken breeds have been developed as companion birds. Many heritage chicken breeds are ornamental, with very interesting plumage which is designed to strike the eye, and chickens also make very good pets, for people with room to keep them. Although chickens are often thought of as stupid, some of these birds are in fact quite intelligent, and some chickens become skilled problem solvers and well-loved members of the family.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a chicken?

Domestic chickens originated in India.
Domestic chickens originated in India.

A chicken is a domesticated bird that belongs to the species Gallus gallus domesticus. It's a subspecies of the red junglefowl and is one of the most common and widespread domestic animals. Chickens are raised primarily for their meat and eggs, and they play a crucial role in human agriculture.

How many breeds of chickens are there?

There are hundreds of chicken breeds, with over 500 recognized worldwide. The American Poultry Association lists more than 50 breeds in its "Standard of Perfection." Each breed has distinct characteristics, including size, plumage color, egg-laying capabilities, and temperament, catering to various agricultural and culinary needs.

What do chickens typically eat?

Whole raw chicken can be purchased from most grocery stores.
Whole raw chicken can be purchased from most grocery stores.

Chickens are omnivores and have a diverse diet. They eat seeds, insects, fruits, and grains, and they can also be fed commercial poultry feed. A balanced diet is essential for their health and productivity, especially for laying hens, which require a diet rich in calcium to produce strong eggshells.

How long do chickens live?

The lifespan of a chicken varies depending on the breed and whether it is raised for meat, eggs, or as a pet. On average, chickens live for 5 to 10 years, but some pet chickens have been known to live longer, with lifespans extending up to 20 years under optimal care.

At what age do chickens start laying eggs?

Chickens typically begin laying eggs at around 5 to 6 months of age, although this can vary by breed. The most productive period for laying eggs is in the first 2 to 3 years of their lives. After that, egg production gradually decreases.

Are chickens social animals?

Chicken wings are always popular at parties.
Chicken wings are always popular at parties.

Yes, chickens are social creatures with complex social structures known as pecking orders. They communicate with a variety of vocalizations and body language. Chickens thrive in groups where they can interact, establish hierarchies, and exhibit natural behaviors like foraging, dust bathing, and roosting together.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a AllThingsNature researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a AllThingsNature researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

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    • A roast chicken.
      By: Viktor
      A roast chicken.
    • Brown and white chicken eggs.
      By: aoates
      Brown and white chicken eggs.
    • A chicken and egg.
      By: andrimka
      A chicken and egg.
    • Domestic chickens originated in India.
      By: Tupungato
      Domestic chickens originated in India.
    • Whole raw chicken can be purchased from most grocery stores.
      By: Bill
      Whole raw chicken can be purchased from most grocery stores.
    • Chicken wings are always popular at parties.
      By: Kybele
      Chicken wings are always popular at parties.