Can chickens have emotions?

[member 571403]

Can chickens have emotions? If they can, to what extent?

 

[humblehillsfarm]

Eh.... I am just philosophizing with you here, but I think they are largely driven more by instinct. Fear, curiosity, snacks, desire to protect, mother, etc. I do know my rooster and hen, both black cochins, are never far from each other. They snuggle all the time. She sleeps with him on the floor. I feel very strongly that when one dies the other will be close behind, so there is some level of attachment there. I know I love my birds a lot, but as much as I try to snuggle and hug them, the only feeling I get in return is "put me down," and "I just wanted treats."

 

[member 571403]

Thank you for replying so quickly. My chicks have similar Behavior.

 

[FuzzyCritters]

Yes, chickens do have emotions. A study was conducted on chicken intelligence, and the results show that chickens do have basic emotions, like fear, happiness, and boredom, but also more complex emotions, including empathy. I don't remember exactly where I read this, but I'll post the article here if I can find it.

 

[member 571403]

Okay, thanks that is exactly what I wanted to know.