Chicken

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The chicken (*Gallus gallus domesticus*) is a domesticated bird descended from the red junglefowl of Southeast Asia and one of the most widespread and important poultry species in the world. A single individual is called a **chicken**, while a group can be referred to as a **flock**, **brood** (especially of young), or **peep** (informally, for chicks). The male is known as a **rooster** or **cock**, the female as a **hen**, and the young are called **chicks**—a distinctive name used universally across cultures. Chickens are medium-sized birds with feathered bodies, wings (though they cannot fly well), strong legs for scratching the ground, and a prominent comb and wattles on their heads, which help regulate body temperature. They have keen eyesight, communicate through a range of clucks, crows, and alarm calls, and exhibit complex social behaviors within a hierarchy known as the “pecking order.” Hens lay eggs regularly—often daily—regardless of fertilization, making them invaluable for egg production. Roosters are typically larger, more colorful, and known for their loud crowing, especially at dawn.

Chickens are raised in nearly every country and thrive in a wide variety of human-managed environments—from backyard coops and free-range farms to large-scale industrial poultry houses. They prefer dry, sheltered areas with access to soil for foraging, sunlight, and protection from predators. While not found in the wild in their domesticated form, feral chickens exist on islands and rural areas where escaped birds have established populations, such as in Hawaii or parts of Southeast Asia. There are no true subspecies of domestic chickens, but there are over **500 recognized breeds**, each developed for specific purposes. **Egg-laying breeds** like the Leghorn are lightweight and highly productive. **Meat breeds** such as the Cornish Cross grow rapidly and are the primary source of commercial broiler chickens. **Dual-purpose breeds** like the Plymouth Rock and Orpington provide both eggs and meat. **Heritage and ornamental breeds**—including the Silkie, Polish, and Frizzle—are prized for their unique appearance, calm temperament, or cultural value. These breeds vary widely in size, feather color, comb type, and behavior, reflecting centuries of selective breeding for utility, hardiness, and aesthetics.

Culturally, chickens hold profound significance across civilizations. In many societies, they symbolize fertility, vigilance, and renewal—the rooster’s morning crow has long been associated with the rising sun and awakening. In ancient Greece and Rome, chickens were used in religious rituals and divination. In Chinese culture, the rooster is one of the 12 zodiac animals, representing honesty, confidence, and punctuality. Chickens appear in folklore worldwide, from Aesop’s fables to African proverbs, often portraying cleverness or caution. Today, chicken is the most consumed meat globally, and eggs are a dietary staple in countless cuisines. Beyond food, chickens play roles in cockfighting (in some regions, though controversial and illegal in many countries) and as beloved pets in urban and rural homes alike. Ecologically, free-range chickens can benefit small farms by controlling insects, aerating soil, and converting food scraps into protein. However, large-scale poultry operations contribute to environmental issues such as manure runoff, greenhouse gas emissions, and grain demand that impacts land use. Despite this, when managed responsibly, chickens support sustainable agriculture and food security. As both a practical resource and a cultural icon, the humble chicken remains one of humanity’s closest and most enduring animal companions.

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