13 Fascinating Facts About Chickens

With more than 19 billion on the planet at any given time, chickens outnumber humans by almost 3-to-1. Our feathered friends provide eggs, companionship and, admittedly, we eat our fair share. But, this popular poultry has personality plus. How much do you know about this not-so-common bird?

Chickens can tell each other apart and are able to remember as many as a hundred faces, both chicken and human. Cross a chicken and you’ve made the list, buddy.

"There are some juicy worms over here!" Over thirty vocalizations comprise chicken language, including distinct calls to warn of predators approaching by air or ground, as well as dinner suggestions.

The term “pecking order” is not just a figure of speech. Chickens defer to the strongest, largest or most aggressive in the flock. Weaker birds will defer from nesting or feeding until the coast is clear.