How long do they live?

[pixie12]

Hi,

We're new to chickens. If they live out their lives as pets, low long will that be? I've heard 8 years or so. Anyone had any live this long, or longer? How are they in their golden years?

Thanks.

 

[tazcat70]

I have a friend who had/has a couple who were/are 7 years old. They still lay when they want to.

 

[Robin'sBrood]

There is a woman on here... can't remember her username, but she's from Australia or somewhere overseas, I believe... and she had a hen that lived to be something like 17 years.

Anyone remember that thread?

 

[NewHopePoultry]

I've heard of pet chickens living up to 12 years, but 8 years is the average.
commercial layers only make it to 3 or 4 years.
They start slowing down on laying eggs around 3 years, but they can keep laying them for several years after that,but it wont be in a set pattern like when they are younger.