Chicken

Gallus gallus domesticus

The domestic chicken is the most numerous and widespread bird on the planet. Descended from junglefowl, the chicken was first domesticated over 10,000 years ago.

There are now hundreds of breeds of chicken, from the tiny Serama Bantum, standing just 15cm tall, to the huge Jersey Giant, standing up to 65cm tall.

Chickens live together as a flock, and establish a strict social order giving rise to the phrase ‘pecking order.’ When the cockerel finds food, he will often call the hens to eat first. Cockerels have been known to starve in their efforts to keep their hens well fed.

Chicken eggs

Hens specifically bred for egg laying can lay up to one egg per day. Eggs vary in colour and size depending on the breed of chicken.

Many animals like to eat eggs as they are rich in fat and nutrients. Unfertilised eggs laid by Wildwood’s chickens are used as a treat for the other animals, and are particularly enjoyed by the badgers and wild boar.

Description

Size: varies with breed

Lifespan: up to 11 years

Weight: varies with breed

Breeding

During the breeding season, hens become ‘broody’ and stop laying eggs to concentrate on incubating. Chicks are fiercely defended by their mother and although she will lead them to food and water, they must feed independently.

Our rescued hens

These beautiful chickens have been given a fresh start—thanks to our partnership with the organization Fresh Start for Hens. They were rescued from intensive egg farms where they were forced to lay eggs continuously. This unnatural environment can cause significant stress, physical harm, and emotional distress. The lack of space, light, and enrichment results in a life that's far from what chickens are naturally meant to experience.

A new life, a new beginning

We’ve given these hens the chance to live in a safe, spacious, and nurturing environment where they can roam freely, scratch the ground, and enjoy sunshine. Our rescued chickens now get the time and care they deserve, and they’re thriving—many even lay eggs when they feel comfortable, but they do it on their own terms.

We’re proud to provide them with the life they should always have had, and they can just be chickens!