The Various Species Of Hens
Hens are the most numerous birds in the world, with an estimated population of over 16 million (males and females.) Currently we observe a great diversity in terms of hen species and their respective sizes, both domestic and wild.
There are hundreds of chicken species distributed on all continents, with the exception of Antarctica. Among these, we find about 27 indigenous breeds of Spain, each with unique characteristics.
Breeds and sizes of hens: a brief summary
The expansion and diversification of hens around the world is mainly due to the exploitation of their meat and eggs for human consumption. In this article, we invite you to learn about different types and sizes of hens, organized according to recognized breeds.
The main species of small and dwarf hens
Brahma’s dwarf hen
It is a miniature version of the Brahma hens, obtained from English and German breeders, but with Asian origins.
After the success of Brahma hens in Europe, many breeders have adopted them as the basis for new European breeds.
Its body is rounded, with a protruding face and head. In addition, it is distinguished by its red cheeks and with few feathers. Its plumage can present different shades : the most famous are pied and white.
The Japanese silky hen
The Japanese moroseta hen is a small breed of hen that, according to some experts, could be considered a dwarf. They are also known internationally as black silk hens.
Its body is short and rounded, like its head, with soft and silky feathers, hence the name. Currently, as many as five varieties of this breed have been recognized, depending on the plumage: black, white, silver gray, blue and wild.
The Paduan hen
Also known as the Paduan, the Paduan hen is a dwarf breed originating in Great Britain. The first specimens were obtained from the Padua hen, a large breed.
Originally the Paduan hens were bred for the exploitation of their meat, so they have retained a bit of rusticity. However, today it is a luxury breed intended primarily for displays and adornments.
One of their most distinctive features is that they don’t tolerate water, so they shouldn’t be wet. Their cleaning must be done dry and a suitable device is used to make them drink.
The main species of large hens
Brahma’s hen
This is one of the most amazing chicken species in the world, due to its size and robustness. In fact, it is one of the largest birds that can be found in chicken coops. Its body is sturdy, with a large chest and a prominent abdomen.
It was originally a wild hen that was domesticated for the exploitation, mainly, of its meat. Today its breeding is very widespread, as it is a resistant and versatile breed, which can adapt to many types of climates and terrains.
The Faverolles hen
These hens of French origin are distinguished by their large size and a very docile temperament.
In addition to their well-developed muscles, these birds also have loose feathers and abundant plumage, which makes them even more robust.
One of its outstanding characteristics is that its plumage can have very extravagant patterns : white and black are combined with salmon shades.
The Plymouth Rock hen: among the most fascinating species of hens
This American breed is considered to be medium to large in size. Its creation took place through selective crosses between Asian and Dominican chickens, probably also with the participation of Spanish roosters.
The Plymouth Rock is a rustic hen, which can have different shades in its plumage, such as white, black, gray, reddish, etc. In addition, many specimens have beautiful silver, yellow or green reflections, which make them even more striking.
The hen of Mos: among the most common species of hens
The hen of Mos is an indigenous breed of Spain, originally from Galicia. It is a large and robust bird, with a broad chest from the forward position, whose plumage is characterized by orange or yellowish tones.
In Spain it is very common to find the Moses hen in chicken coops, as it hatches a good amount of eggs and is quite docile.
Another important feature of the Moses hen is that it adapts well to harsh winters, so lower temperatures will not interfere with egg laying.
