Chickens are absolutely incredible birds. They’re smart (well most of them anyway), sweet and have been an incredible addition to our backyard. I can’t imagine life without Happy, Roxanne and Reba along with the rest of the crew. They’ve made me fall in love with backyard chickens.
However, like all living things, an end will always come. I’ve lost a couple of chickens over the last five years which brings up the question, “How long do chickens live?”
How Long Do Chickens Live?
Healthy backyard chickens can live up to or longer than 10 years! Of course, considering they are healthy, have a good diet, no predator attacks or illness and good genetics. The average chicken will live 5-7 years. This is only an average. Different breeds, genetics, habitats, care and environment all play a factor in the lifespan of a chicken.
Chickens who are raised for commercial egg or meat production have a shorter lifespan due to the nature of their purpose. Most meat birds are raised for 6 weeks before they are processed. Commercial egg layers are usually kept for 2-3 years and then culled because their egg production drops after their prime. I don’t necessarily like these facts, but I’m just presenting them to you.
How to Give Your Chickens a Long, Healthy Life
Ensure your backyard flock gets a healthy start as chicks is vital in their livelihood and long-term health. Baby chicks’ digestive and immune systems are very fragile. Giving them the right food (chick feed), vitamins and minerals, prebiotics, probiotics and even oregano essential oils gives them what they need to grow into healthy backyard chickens.
I use the Baby Chick Care Kit with every chick we raise. We have noticed significant growth in health with our chicks using these incredible products.
As our chickens grow, we continue using Strong Animals Chicken Essentials to help them with their daily nutrition and long-term health. I care deeply about their quality of life and will do what I can to keep them happy and healthy! This includes feeding them high-quality chicken feed, fresh water with Chicken E-lixir or Flock Fixer, healthy treats, grit, oyster shells, and plenty of fresh air and sunshine. A healthy hen is a happy hen, and happy hens lay great eggs!
Until next time,
–The Wing Lady