longivity

[ccrecelius]

What is the average life-span of a chicken?

 

[kkm]

Chickens in small flocks live several years if conditions are correct. A life span of 6-8 years may not be unreasonable. Most commercial layers are kept for 2-3 years.

 

[ccrecelius]

Thank you! I am getting attached to these little things and just wanted to know how long I can expect to have them around!

 

[MissPrissy]

bantymum has a hen 17 yrs old.

 

[ashyannehand]

My grandma says that she has had chickens live for 10+ years.

Mine are just 6 months old. I guess they have a lot of living yet to do.

 

[ccrecelius]

Do they lay eggs when they get older?

 

[silkiechicken]

They can and do, but it does slow down and can almost stop. I believe bantymum's hen laid one at 16yo.

Most mine rotate though at 4 years or so, but I've kept a favorite for 7 before a coon got it. Into the teens is not unusual for a well kept bird that has had a luckly lease on life and isn't eaten by human or preds.

 

[ravenfeathers]

this is a fun almost-answer to your question!

 

[ccrecelius]

Quote:
I am reading this right now, and I have another questions:

feather legged birds must be banded? I have cochins. Am I supposed to do something to their legs?

 

[ccrecelius]

Seems like everything happens in 20's with chickens. Hatch at 20 - 21 days, lay at 20 weeks, and are good layers til 20 months. Interesting. Maybe start laying golden eggs if they make to 20 years?!?!?!