The global popularity of domestic fowl has led to widespread confusion regarding the specific terms used to classify the birds. While many people use “chicken” and “hen” interchangeably, these terms have precise definitions in poultry farming and biology. Understanding the distinction between the species’ collective name and the names for birds of a specific age and sex is necessary for accurate discussion about these common animals.
Chicken: The Overarching Term
The word “chicken” serves as the general name for the domesticated species, scientifically known as Gallus gallus domesticus. This classification includes all birds of this type, regardless of their age, gender, or maturity level. The domestic chicken is a subspecies of the red junglefowl, native to Southeast Asia, and is one of the most common domesticated animals globally.
In common language, “chicken” is used broadly to refer to the bird at any stage of life, from a newly hatched chick to a fully mature adult. This usage also applies when referring to the meat of the bird in a culinary context. While the term is inclusive of both males and females, more specific names are used in the poultry industry to denote sex and development.
Hen: The Adult Female Distinction
A hen is defined specifically as an adult female chicken that has reached sexual maturity. This maturity is marked by the onset of egg-laying, which typically begins when the female is between 18 and 25 weeks of age, though this range can vary by breed.
The primary function of the hen is the production of eggs, making her a valuable part of any flock or commercial operation. Physical characteristics help distinguish a hen, including a fully developed comb and wattles, which are generally smaller than those of an adult male. Hens also tend to have a more rounded, horizontal stance compared to the upright posture of the adult male chicken.
Other Essential Fowl Terminology
To fully classify chickens by age and sex, additional terms are used to specify the male and immature female birds.
Adult Male (Rooster)
The adult male chicken is known as a rooster, or sometimes a cock. Roosters are typically larger than hens and are easily recognized by their brighter, larger combs and wattles. They also possess long, pointed saddle and sickle feathers on their back and tail.
Immature Birds (Pullet and Cockerel)
A young female chicken that has not yet reached sexual maturity and is not laying eggs is called a pullet. This classification generally applies to females under one year of age, before they reach the point of lay. Correspondingly, a young male chicken that is not yet sexually mature is termed a cockerel. Cockerels transition into full roosters around one year old, showing distinct male characteristics like an earlier-developing comb.