12 Amazing Fun Facts About Chickens to Know

It is estimated that there are over 34 billion chickens worldwide. They outnumber humans by approximately four to one. But even with these vast numbers, chickens are still widely misunderstood and severely mistreated. There is way more to these extraordinary beings than meets the eye. Here are 12 interesting facts about these fantastic birds that you may not know.

1. Dinosaur Ancestry of Chickens

Chickens evolved from dinosaurs and scientific evidence even indicates that chickens share a common ancestry with the Tyrannosaurus Rex. Scientists believe that modern birds evolved from theropod dinosaurs. Theropod dinosaurs are distinguished by their bipedal, or two-legged, stance. Fossils support the theory that dinosaurs and birds, including chickens, are linked. The Archaeopteryx, called the “first bird”, is one prime example. This ancient creature featured characteristics common to both birds and dinosaurs, including feathers and their skeletal structure. Genetic research also supports the theory, as the DNA of modern birds holds the “genetic remnants of their dinosaur ancestors”.

2. Can Chickens Fly?

While chickens may not fly particularly far or for a long time, they can clear an obstacle or avoid a predator. Their flight is more of a short burst, rather than a typical bird’s sustained glide. This allows them to reach a higher, safer roosting place. They can easily reach heights of 6-10 feet.

3. Chickens Dream When They Sleep

Scientists have observed REM (Rapid Eye Movement) in sleeping chickens. This is an indication of dreaming. They also have a unique ability called unihemispheric, meaning one half of the brain sleeps while the other is awake. Perhaps this is where the phrase “sleep with one eye open” originated.

4. How Chickens Can See Ultraviolet Light

Chickens can perceive way more colors than humans. While we can only see ultraviolet light by using a black light, it is part of their everyday spectrum. They also have a 300-degree field of vision because their eyes are located on the sides of their heads. Chickens’ eyes do not move much in their sockets, though, which is why they often turn their heads to see things better.

5. The Complex Language Structure of Chickens

We could write a book about the numerous ways chickens communicate. They exhibit over 30 unique vocalizations that allow them to convey information to each other. Chickens and Roosters can warn each other of danger, indicate the location of food, convey stress or fear, or demonstrate how they are feeling. These beautiful birds will often purr when they are happy or content. Hens have even been known to vocalize to their chicks while they are still in the egg.

6. Chicken Face Recognition & Memory

Chickens can distinguish well over 100 faces. Even baby chicks display an ability to identify faces. Chickens not only recognize each other, however. They can also remember human faces. They will remember you even after an extended period, so make a good first impression.

7. How a Dirt Bath Gets a Chicken Squeaky Clean

Chickens have oil glands that serve to waterproof their feathers. This oil gets stale over time, so they will roll in the dirt to remove it. The oil sticks to the dirt, allowing the chicken to shake it off. Then the chicken can spread new oil over its feathers and start the day fresh.

Chickens live in flocks and have what is called a pecking order. Every chicken has their place, and they are aware of it. This allows the group to remain stable and cohesive while reducing fighting. The head hen is in charge, and the other hens follow her lead.

Some hens in the middle roles may boss those in the bottom roles around. The bottom hens have no one to boss and may eat last or have the least desirable roosting spot. New birds generally start at the bottom of the totem pole, but they may work their way up over time.

A rooster in any flock is automatically considered the top of the whole flock, but the hens’ pecking order will remain. If there is more than one rooster in the flock, they will establish their own pecking order.

9. The Hidden Ears of a Chicken

Chickens do not have external ears like humans, but their earlobes can be observed on the sides of their head. The ears themselves are covered with fine feathers. The earlobe is generally more prominent in roosters. Some people mistake it for a wattle.

10. Egg Color is Connected to a Chicken’s Ears

The color of a hen’s ears often indicates what color their eggs are likely to be. In some breeds, the ear color is a clue to what color eggs the hen will lay. Hens with white ears are more likely to lay white eggs. Hens with red ears tend to lay more brown eggs. Those with a pinkish color often lay tinted eggs that are a cross between white and brown.

11. Remarkable Intelligence of Chickens

We have already established that chickens communicate in complex manners and recognize over 100 faces. They also have intricate problem-solving skills, often learned from one another or taught to a chick by its mother. Some compare their cognitive abilities to those of primates or even to those of young children. Chickens have demonstrated object permanence, reasoning skills, and can even do some basic math. On top of this, they have great memories and can even apply knowledge of prior experiences to their current situation.

12. Chickens Can Do Math

Studies show that baby chicks can solve basic math problems, distinguish between quantities, and demonstrate a grasp of object permanence as well as some primates from as young as five days old.

Chickens Deserve a Chance to Live in Peace

Chickens are amazing creatures that deserve way more respect and care than they receive. They are intelligent, sentient beings that fully experience the world around them. For too many chickens, this world is not a kind one. They suffer significant abuse on factory farms during their short lives. Approximately 74 billion chickens are killed for consumption each year.

Do you have a friend or relative who is on the edge about giving up meat or meat products? Share these facts with them to see if they will help with their decision. What other fun or cool facts do you know about chickens? Share them in the comments and don’t forget to check out some of our other fun facts articles including 7 Fun Facts About Lambs To Melt Your Heart.