Chickens, domesticated thousands of years ago, have developed into an astonishing array of forms through selective breeding. This has resulted in numerous distinct types, each with unique characteristics. Their variety is remarkable, ranging widely in appearance, behavior, and utility.
The Scope of Chicken Diversity
The exact number of chicken varieties globally is not definitively known, though estimates point to hundreds. Some sources suggest over 500 “fancy breeds” worldwide. This fluid number is influenced by ongoing breeding efforts and differing recognition standards established by various poultry organizations. For instance, the American Poultry Association (APA) recognizes 53 large fowl breeds and numerous bantam (miniature) counterparts, totaling nearly 450 distinct varieties when considering color and pattern variations.
A “breed” refers to an established group of chickens that consistently passes on its distinctive physical and behavioral traits to its offspring, meaning they “breed true.” Conversely, a “variety” is a sub-classification within a recognized breed, often defined by differences in plumage color, feather patterns, or comb types. For example, a single breed like the Plymouth Rock can have several color varieties such as Barred, White, or Buff. Hybrid chickens, which are crosses of two or more established breeds, typically do not breed true and are not usually recognized by official poultry standards.
Categorizing Chicken Breeds
Chicken breeds are commonly classified in several ways, reflecting their primary use, geographic origin, or physical attributes. One primary method groups breeds by purpose: egg-laying, meat production, dual-purpose (for both eggs and meat), and ornamental birds. This helps poultry keepers select breeds suited to their specific needs.
Another common classification method is by geographic origin, particularly within the American Poultry Association’s framework. This system divides standard-sized breeds into classes such as American, Asiatic, Continental, English, and Mediterranean, reflecting where they were developed. Each class often shares general characteristics; for example, American class breeds are typically cold-hardy and good layers of brown eggs. Chickens are also categorized by size, distinguishing between large fowl and bantams. Bantams are miniature versions that can be scaled-down large breeds or “true bantams” existing only in small form.
Physical characteristics also serve as classification criteria, encompassing traits like plumage color and patterns, comb type (e.g., single, rose, pea), skin color, number of toes, and presence or absence of leg feathers. These distinctions contribute to each breed’s unique appearance and are important for identification and exhibition standards.
Exploring Different Chicken Types
The diversity among chickens is evident in breeds developed for different purposes.
Egg Production
For egg production, the Leghorn is an example, known for prolific laying of large white eggs, often exceeding 280 to 320 annually. Rhode Island Reds are known for producing 200 to 300 brown eggs each year. Australorps are another excellent egg-laying breed, with some hens producing over 300 eggs per year.
Meat Production
For meat production, the Cornish Cross is the most recognized breed in commercial poultry, bred for rapid growth and efficient meat conversion, typically reaching market weight quickly. Red Rangers offer an alternative, known for slightly slower growth but excelling as active foragers, suitable for pasture-based systems.
Dual-Purpose
Dual-purpose breeds balance egg and meat production, making them popular choices for small farms and homesteads. The Plymouth Rock, for instance, is a hardy breed that lays a good number of large brown eggs while also providing a substantial carcass for meat. Orpingtons are another dual-purpose option, recognized for their docile temperament, good egg production, and considerable size. Wyandottes are also dual-purpose chickens, known for cold hardiness and reliable production of brown eggs and meat.
Ornamental
Ornamental breeds are valued for their unique aesthetics and friendly dispositions rather than productivity. The Silkie, with its fluffy, fur-like plumage, black skin, and docile nature, is a popular choice. Polish chickens are recognized for their large, striking crests of head feathers, adding a unique visual element to any flock. Cochins are also ornamental, admired for abundant feathering, large size, and calm demeanor.