Domestic ChickenPhysical Structure:
The appearance of domestic chickens can vary depending on their breed, but they share some basic characteristics. Their bodies are short, round, and covered with thick feathers, while their faces are covered with soft fleshy hanging areas (wattles). The adult rooster, the male, has a red comb on its head and its wings are covered with shiny, pointed feathers. Its tail is long and attractive. The rooster is larger and heavier than the female, and its legs have spurs that it uses during fighting.
Predators:
The natural enemies of chickens include coyotes, foxes, bobcats, weasels, birds of prey, raccoons, opossums, skunks, and snakes.
Lifespan:
The average lifespan of chickens is about ten years.
Domestic chicken Birth age:
Chickens are active during the day and are social in nature. A rooster and several hens form a flock. Hens build a nest on the ground and use their breast skin to incubate their eggs, which provides special warmth. Up to twelve eggs can be laid in a nest, which hatch in about a month.
Interesting fact:
Roosters are known for their unique call, the crow. They use this sound to declare their territory and warn other males.
Hens do not crow, but they do make a clicking sound after laying eggs or to communicate with their chicks.
Chickens have a very strong social order, with a dominance system. The strongest roosters rule over the lower-ranking hens, which is called a "pecking order."