If you’ve ever found yourself wondering about the difference between a chicken and a hen, you’re not alone! While these two terms are often used interchangeably, they actually have distinct meanings, especially when it comes to poultry.
Chicken: The term “chicken” is a broad one that refers to the entire species, Gallus gallus domesticus. It encompasses both male and female birds, as well as young and adult birds. So when you hear “chicken,” it could refer to any member of this species, whether it’s a rooster (male), a hen (female), or even a young chick.
Hen: On the other hand, “hen” specifically refers to an adult female chicken. Typically, a hen is a chicken that is old enough to lay eggs—usually around 5 to 6 months of age. So, all hens are chickens, but not all chickens are hens.
Key Difference:
- Chicken is the general term for the species and can refer to both males (roosters) and females (hens), as well as chicks.
- Hen is a more specific term that refers to an adult female chicken, particularly one that lays eggs.
In short, while “chicken” refers to the whole bird family, “hen” is used exclusively for the females, particularly those that produce eggs. So, the next time you’re talking poultry, you’ll know exactly which term to use!