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. That makes me wonder, “How long do chickens live?” I’ve lost a few chickens in the last five years.
As a chicken owner, one of the most common questions you may have is “what is the average lifespan of a chicken?” Knowing how long you can expect your chickens to live can help you better care for your flock. In this article, we’ll dive into the details around chicken lifespans and what impacts how long chickens live.
Overview of Chicken Lifespans
The average lifespan of a chicken depends heavily on the breed. On average, most backyard chickens live between 5-8 years. However, some breeds and individual chickens live much longer, even up to 10-15 years.
Heritage breed chickens generally live the longest, with average lifespans of 8-10 years. Production breed chickens like Leghorns have the shortest lifespans at just 2-5 years. The exact lifespan of your chicken depends on several factors including breed, diet, housing, predation, and health.
When looking at chickens by category:
- Heritage breeds: 8-10 years
- Dual purpose breeds: 6-8 years
- Production breeds: 2-5 years
These ranges are a good starting point, but each chicken is different. If you take good care of them, some backyard chickens live well into their teens.
Factors That Impact Chicken Lifespans
Many elements influence how long a chicken lives. Here are some of the most important factors:
Breed
Breed plays a major role in expected lifespan. Heritage breeds that are bred to be hearty and robust tend to live the longest. Production breeds bred to lay lots of eggs quickly have shorter lives.
Some breeds known for longevity include Plymouth Rocks Orpingtons and Cochins. Short-lived breeds include Leghorns, Cornish Crosses, and other commercial egg layers.
Diet & Nutrition
A balanced, nutritional diet supports good health and longevity. Key nutrients chickens need include protein, calcium, and antioxidants. Lack of certain nutrients can cause health problems in chickens that may shorten their lives.
Housing & Predators
Proper housing protects chickens from extreme weather and predators. Good ventilation, insulation, secure fencing, and predator-proof coops support long lifespans by keeping chickens safe.
Genetics & Overall Health
Chickens from robust genetic lines tend to be heartier and live longer. Regular health checks, prompt treatment of illness, and an overall strong constitution also boost longevity.
Egg Laying
Frequent egg laying takes a toll on chickens. Hens that lay eggs more moderately or who stop seasonal laying tend to live longer than chickens bred to lay eggs constantly.
Chickens can live for many years if they have good genes, a good home, good health care, and a good diet. But a chicken’s life can be cut short by sickness, predators, stress, problems reproducing, and injuries.
Which Chicken Breeds Live the Longest?
Some breeds are known for their impressive longevity. Here are the top 5 longest living chicken breeds:
1. The average life span for this heritage breed of dogs, the Plymouth Rock, is 8 to 12 years. Their diverse genetics contribute to hardiness.
2. Orpingtons – The docile, cold-hardy Orpington commonly lives up to 10 years. Their calm temperament reduces stress.
3. Cochins – Massive, fluffy Cochins can live 8-12 years if housed properly to avoid obesity and arthritis issues.
4. Silkies – Adorable Silkies often live 7-9 years thanks to their mellow personalities and robust health.
5. Easter Eggers – Easter Eggers aren’t a breed per se, but a hybrid mix known for terrific longevity at 8-10+ years.
By choosing one of these longer living breeds and providing proper care, you can expect your backyard hens to stick around for many years and become cherished family pets.
Common Causes of Early Death in Backyard Chickens
While most backyard chickens live 5 years or more, many unfortunately pass away earlier than expected. Here are the most common causes of premature death in chickens:
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Predators – Coyotes, hawks, dogs, raccoons, and others find chickens an easy tasty meal. Enclosing runs and coops helps prevent attacks.
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Respiratory Illnesses – Wet, dirty coops can cause fungal issues. Good ventilation and hygiene reduces risk.
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Egg Binding – Overweight hens may get stuck egg bound. Extra calcium and space to exercise help.
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Heat Stress – Chickens can suffer heat stroke at high temps. Proper shade and ventilation lower risk.
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Marek’s Disease – Highly contagious, this viral neurological disease is common and fatal. Vaccinating chicks prevents Marek’s.
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Coccidiosis – Coccidia parasites can quickly lead to death. Keeping coops clean and dry prevents infestations.
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Fowl Pox – Transmitted by mosquitoes, fowl pox causes wart-like lesions and high mortality rates. Vaccination prevents outbreaks.
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Egg Laying Strain – Production breeds succumb to reproductive illnesses and cancers from constant laying.
With attentive care and swift treatment when issues emerge, backyard chickens can avoid many of these common pitfalls and live long, healthy lives.
How to Help Your Chickens Live Longer
You play a big role in your flock’s longevity. Here are some tips to help your chickens live longer:
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Choose breeds known for health and longevity when selecting chickens. Hatchery quality matters too.
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Provide a balanced, nutritional diet with sufficient protein for growth and calcium for egg production.
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Ensure safe, comfortable housing that protects chickens from the elements, predators, illness, and injuries.
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Allow chickens time to rest from egg laying; consider artificial light reduction in winter.
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Limit treats and supplemental feed not formulated specifically for chickens.
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Check chickens daily for signs of illness, injury, or distress and address issues promptly.
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Quarantine and treat sick birds rapidly to prevent contagion across your flock.
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Maintain vet visits and vaccinations for best disease prevention.
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Stimulate chickens mentally and physically with space to roam and enrichment.
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Manage flock dynamics thoughtfully to reduce aggression and pecking order stress.
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Record each chicken’s unique health history to optimize specialized care.
With proper breed selection, housing, nutrition, and healthcare, your backyard chickens can live happily and productively for many years to come. Get to know your flock and their needs, and you’ll give your chickens their best shot at maximal longevity.
The Takeaway
Most backyard chickens live 5-8 years on average. Heritage breeds reach 10+ years, while production breeds average just 2-5 years. Breed, housing, diet, predators, egg laying intensity, and overall health heavily influence longevity. With attentive care of your flock, you can help your chickens lead long, high quality lives full of fun chicken antics and fresh eggs to enjoy.
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 that are raised for egg or meat production have shorter lives because that is what they are raised to do. 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 Long Do Chickens Live: 6 Factors That Impact Life Expectancy
FAQ
What is the lifespan of a backyard chicken?
The average lifespan of a backyard chicken typically ranges from 5 to 8 years, but can vary significantly based on breed, care, and environment.
What is the 90/10 rule for chickens?
The 90% rule for chickens is a feeding guideline that says 90% of a chicken’s daily food should be complete feed, and the other 10% can be treats.
How many years can a chicken lay eggs?
How long do chickens live as a pet?
If you take good care of your chicken, it can live up to 15 years. Some news sources say the world’s oldest chicken was 22 years old. Apr 16, 2025.