Chickens can live for quite a long time compared to other poultry. The average lifespan of a chicken depends on factors like its breed, environment, and whether it is a pet chicken or a chicken raised for meat or eggs. With proper care and feeding, chickens can live productive lives of 5-10 years or longer.
How long do chickens live?
Here are the average lifespans for common types of chickens:
- Layer chickens (raised for eggs): 4-8 years
- Broiler chickens (raised for meat): 6-8 weeks
- Backyard/pet chickens: 8-15 years
As you can see, chickens raised specifically for meat have very short lives compared to egg-laying or pet chickens.
Commercial egg and meat producers have selectively bred chickens to either lay more eggs or grow bigger in a shorter amount of time. This intensive production takes a toll on the chicken’s body. Layer hens typically live for 2-4 years before their egg production drops off, at which point they are “spent” hens.
In contrast, backyard and pet chickens that aren’t pushed for such high productivity can live much longer. With proper feed, room to roam, and veterinary care, many backyard chickens remain healthy and active for 8 years or longer. The oldest chicken on record lived to be 22!
Factors Affecting Lifespan
Many different factors influence a chicken’s lifespan:
Breed
Some breeds, like lightweight egg layers, tend to have shorter lives than heavier dual-purpose breeds. Heritage breeds bred to be rugged and self-sufficient tend to be longer-lived as well.
Diet & Feed Quality
Chickens need quality feed and fresh water. Malnutrition will cause health issues that shorten a chicken’s life. Providing layer feed formulated for a chicken’s age and production level supports longevity.
Predators & Accidents
Predators and accidents are risks for free-range chickens that can cut lives short. Safe, spacious coops and runs help protect backyard chickens.
Weather & Environmental Stress
Chickens struggle in temperature extremes and cope better in moderate, seasonal climates. Environmental stressors like severe weather events and overcrowding also negatively impact lifespan.
Broodiness & Egg Production
Frequent egg laying and broody hormonal shifts tax a hen’s body over time. Letting chickens “rest” their reproductive systems periodically helps conserve vitality.
Parasites & Disease
Parasites, bacterial infections, and viruses are other common causes of early death in chickens if not properly prevented and managed.
Overall Care & Vet Checkups
With attentive daily chicken care, safe housing, gradual integration of new birds, and veterinary care, backyard flock owners help ensure their chickens lead long, high-quality lives.
Chicken Lifespan Chart
This chart summarizes average chicken lifespans based on common types and production uses:
| Type of Chicken | Average Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Meat/Broiler Chicken | 6-8 Weeks |
| Layer Hen | 4-8 Years |
| Backyard/Pet Chicken | 8-15 Years |
Of course, individual chicken lifespan can vary quite a bit based on the many factors discussed. But this chart gives a general idea of average expectancies. The key point is that many chickens can live productive lives well past 5-8 years when properly cared for.
Extending Your Chickens’ Lifespan
Here are some tips to help your backyard chickens live long, healthy lives:
- Choose hardy, resilient chicken breeds appropriate for your climate
- Feed a complete, balanced diet with calcium for layers
- Encourage exercise and provide ample space
- Prevent common infectious illnesses
- Control external/internal parasites
- Limit environmental stresses
- Avoid overcrowding in coops and runs
- Stimulate hens to break broody spells
- Retire hens from egg laying around 5-7 years old
- Provide shelter, roosts, clean bedding, nest boxes
- Let chickens molt normally before winter
- Dispose of deceased birds properly
- Stay alert to signs of aging or illness
- Work with an avian vet for care as needed
Following best practices for nutrition, housing, sanitation, flock management, and preventative care is key to having long-lived chickens. With good care, your backyard hens and roosters could stick around for a decade or more!
