How to Identify Chicken Breeds

Chickens can be categorized as egg producers, meat producers or just hobby or show birds. The industry utilizes the Standard of Perfection list to rank and list chicken breeds. Most chickens are raised for their meat and eggs. Other breeders raise specialty chicken breeds for competition and judged shows. Follow these steps to identify chicken breeds.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Find out if the animal is being raised as a dual-purpose chicken. These animals can provide both meat and eggs for consumption. These varieties are common to small farms or households.

2. Choose chickens categorized as layers for best egg production. This breed will produce more eggs than a dual-purpose chicken. These chickens tend to be lighter in weight than other breeds and have ill temperaments.

3. Look for Fancy breeds to have unusual colors or special feathering. Several of the Fancy breeds can be dual-purpose or even egg layers. This chicken may simply have attributes such as five toes, beards or distinctive crests that set it aside from others.

4. Identify Bantam breeds as those that are typically smaller versions of common larger breeds. These animals are considered decorative and ornamental.

Tips & Warnings

• Egg laying chickens were once used for their meat in groceries across the world.
• Ask local farmers or markets about chicken breeds in the area. Many farms allow inspection of the breeds if interested in purchasing.
• Always inspect breeding conditions to prevent the spread of E.coli or salmonella bacteria.

Resources

• Here is a website with wonderful chicken information.
• Find a wealth of chicken breed information here.