Chickens Poultry in Worcestershire

Chickens are classified as a species within poultry and further divided into classes based on age, sex, and purpose such as broilers for meat, layers for eggs, roasters, and capons. There are also standard breed classes including American, Asiatic, Continental, English, Mediterranean, and others.

Yes, female chickens, known as hens once mature, lay eggs regardless of the presence of a male chicken (rooster). Egg-laying ability depends on the breed, with some bred specifically for high egg production while meat breeds lay fewer eggs.

Male chicks from egg-laying breeds are typically not used for meat production because they do not develop the large breast and leg muscles needed for quality meat and are therefore not economically viable. As a result, these male chicks are commonly culled shortly after hatching, while male meat-breed chickens are used for meat.