Basic Chicken Anatomy

chicken anatomy diagram

If you are like me, learning chicken terms was helpful, but learning where it was on my chicken was even better. It is necessary for all of us tenders, really.

Understanding basic chicken anatomy is our first step in keeping our feathered besties healthy. And, simply as an example here, knowing where that dreaded rooster spur is will keep you healthy as well! (Your rooster uses his spurs to protect his hens from predators, sometimes mating, and will use them if he is trying to assert himself with another rooster.) Spurs are serious rooster weapons.

So, where is the spur on a rooster? The wattle on a hen? Or the comb? And what purpose do they serve?

A quick answer on the wattle and the comb: it is your bird’s self heating and cooling system! The wattle is located below the beak, the comb on top of the head. Healthy wattle and combs are a plump, bright red.

For a quick lesson check out the full image below! You can brush up on even more chicken anatomy here at this link.

chicken anatomy diagram

As my best friend use to tell me; “Study, study-education is your buddy!” I just never imagined I would be taking chicken classes. Who knew?

Rachel Hutchins
Rachel Hutchins
The Chicken Bawks Copyeditor. Believer. Seeker. Mom. Wife. New Grandma! Crazy Kansas City Chiefs Fan. And of course, Chicken Tender.

May 3, 2023

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