The Average Length of a Chicken’s Life
Chicken Life Expectancy is the life expectancy of the animals that are domesticated on earth. They have been raised for many years for eggs, meat, and company. Even though we are familiar with chickens, there is much more to learn about their life expectancy and the factors that impact them. There are a range of factors, from breed to living conditions, on which the life expectancy of a chicken depends.
What’s the Life Expectancy of a Chicken?
Chicken Life Expectancy Several factors influence the life expectancy of chickens. Nevertheless, chickens who are cared for well usually live between 5 and 10 years. Under optimal and maintained conditions, some breeds of chicken can survive longer, about 12 to 15 years. The name of these breeds is heritage or heirloom. Unfortunately, chickens that are raised in industrial areas and surroundings tend to live shorter lives. The main reason behind their short life is the nature of commercial and farming activities.
Life Expectancy in Different Scenarios
Small farm Chickens: Chickens that are raised in small farms or backyards are expected to live longer than those chickens who are raised in commercial farms.
These enjoy the following good things on the small farm:
Safer and Healthier Environment
Proper Nutritious Food
Space
Medical care
The life expectancy of these chickens raised in the backyard is between 5 to 10 years. However, some unique birds live longer.
Commercial Farming Surroundings: The primary aim of raising chickens in commercial surroundings is the production of eggs or meat which considerably impacts their life cycle.
The main objective of breeding broiler chicken is only for beef so 6 to 6 to 8 weeks before reaching maturity they are slaughtered to get meat from them. There is another type of chicken named the layer hen that is only raised with the sole aim of egg production.
Once their egg production decreases then they are discarded, usually occurring at the age of 18 to 24 months. All these conditions and situations that are mentioned above describe a clear difference between the chickens that are raised in commercial farms and those that are raised by humans in small-scale environments.
These conditions highlight the stark contrast between chickens raised in commercial farms and those in more humane, small-scale environments.
Sanctuary Chickens
Chicken Life Expectancy that are raised in animal sanctuaries tend to live long lives, also the chickens that are kept as pets are expected to live the longest life. The following are the facilities that are provided to these chickens which become the reason for their long life:
Proper and regular veterinary care.
Food enriched with nutrients.
Safe environment for living.
As a result of these facilities, chickens reach their potential lifetime of about 10 to 15 years. In some cases, chickens are at risk of age-related diseases which can become the reason that limit their lifespan.
Factors Influencing Chicken Life Expectancy
Various factors affect the life expectancy of chickens. These factors range from genetics to breed type and from breed type to living conditions, food and vulnerability towards predators and diseases.
Breed
There are several breeds of chicken, all of which have different lifespans. Some breeds live longer than other varieties. For instance.
Heritage Breeds: These are the oldest breeds among other varieties of chickens. The main reason that makes them different from other breeds is their pliability, flexibility, long life, and overall health condition which is better than others. Rhode island Red, Plymouth Rock, and Sussex are some of the names of heritage breeds. All these are known for their resilience and if proper care is provided to them then they can live more than 10 years.
Hybrid Breeds: These breeds are raised for a specific purpose, which is for egg or meat production. They are used for high production. For example, the Cornish cross is used for the production of broiler and commercial layers such as white leghorn. If we talk about their life then unluckily their bodies are not prepared for a long life as they are susceptible to issues related to health and also they are vulnerable to other various health problems that are related to fast growth or production of egg. Due to all these problems / issues these chickens have very short life expectancy.
Nourishment and Diet
Health and long life are both directly related to the diet of chickens. A balanced diet enriched with carbohydrates, protein, vitamins and minerals is needed by chickens. If the proper nutrition is not given to chickens then it can cause health problems in them like poor growth and egg production making them susceptible to diseases.
A varied diet is required for the chickens, including grains, seeds, vegetables and protein sources such as mealworms and bugs. The benefit of this diet is that it supports their immune system and also has a better impact on overall health.
Living Environment
Life expectancy is significantly affected by the environment in which chickens survive. A clean, dry and safe space for living is needed by chickens. Also, they require a type of living space that protects them from harsh weather conditions, predators and other threats.
Protection From Predators: One of the main causes of chickens death is that they are attacked and killed by other animals as they are prey animals. The areas in which chickens face the threat of being attacked by other animals are free range and backyard locations. The most common predators that are a threat to chickens are foxes, raccoons, and dogs that live in the neighborhood. To extend the life expectancy of chickens it is crucial that they can be placed in a secure fenced yard. If their safety is improved then it would have a positive impact on their longevity.
Cleanliness and Aeration: Chickens can face severe illness that can be caused by the ammonia blockage in their droppings, They can suffer from respiratory diseases if the environment in which they are living is not clean. To reduce the risk of respiratory illness and other infections, it is important to provide chickens with a well-cleaned, well-ventilated or better, aerated environment. All these factors would greatly affect the life span of chickens.
Space And Activities: It is advantageous for chickens if they are facilitated by enough space where they can roam, graze and feed. Stress and health problems can occur as a result of confinement and lack of activity. For the betterment of their overall health and increasing life expectancy, chickens must be allowed to perform activities like dust bathing and foraging.
Healthcare and Prevention of Disease
Healthcare is also a need for chickens to remain healthy and live a long life. The life span of chickens can be greatly affected by regular monitoring and treatment of illness.
Vaccinations: Marek’s disease and New Castle disease can be prevented by vaccinations. So through these vaccinations, the young chicks will not be susceptible towards these common and life-threatening diseases thus they could gain the chance to live a longer life.
Control of Parasites: Chickens are more prone to both types of parasites, internal and external, for instance mites, lice and worms. If a parasite attacks a chicken then it can weaken that chicken and ultimately reduce its lifespan if not treated. So a proper routine and preventive treatment is essential for parasitic infestations.
Medical Care: Sometimes the illness cannot be seen in chickens but their behaviour can be altered like appetite which would be an indication of health issues. Pursuing veterinary help immediately can prevent these chickens from dying and thus have a positive impact on their life expectancy.
Common Health Issues In Chickens
Although there are some issues related to the health of chickens that are preventable, some problems increase with age. Typical problems in chickens include the following:
Egg binding: When a hen cannot lay an egg this is called egg binding. If this condition is not treated it can lead to serious complications and even death.
Respiratory diseases: In chicken cages if there is poor ventilation or high ammonia levels then these chickens are more susceptible to respiratory infections.
The following are the symptoms of respiratory infections that occur in chickens:
Coughing
Wheezing
Nasal discharge
Marek’s Disease: A highly contagious viral disease that can cause paralysis and even death in chickens is Marek’s disease. This disease is common in young birds. A vaccine is available for this viral infection.
Bumble foot: If a cut or injury occurs at the foot of the chicken then infection takes place at the foot. This infection is called bumble foot. If this infection is not treated, then chickens become unable to walk.
Peritonitis: When fluid or egg material builds up in the abdomen, this condition is called peritonitis. Older hens are more prone to this infection and can cause death if left untreated.
How To Raise Chickens to Live Longer
The following steps should be kept in mind while raising chickens to help them live longer, healthier lives:
Choose heritage breeds.
Provide a proper and balanced nutritious diet.
Try to maintain a clean cage and also the environment where chickens are raised.
Monitor their health regularly to check for any signs of parasites or infections.
For preventing young birds from common diseases vaccination is necessary.
Provide chickens with enough space to roam and also give them opportunities to feed.
For the physical and mental health of chickens, engage them in natural behaviors.
FAQ’S
Conclusion
Chickens are among the outstanding animals, they can live a long time but on the condition of proper care. The lives of chickens can be greatly improved by the care of sanctuary caregivers, hobbyists, and backyard chicken keepers, while commercial farming reduces the lifetime of chickenChickenskcan to live for about 10 years if they are given a better diet, safer environment, healthcare and measures for prevention from diseases. All these factors helped them to live a life that is full of freedom, security and companionship. If you raise chickens for any purpose, whether it is for eggs, meat or as pets, you must know the needs of these remarkable animals.
The most important aspect is the life expectancy of these chickens that helpful in ensuring a life that is happy and healthy.