List of chicken breeds

[1] Domesticated for thousands of years, distinguishable breeds of chicken have been present since the combined factors of geographical isolation and selection for desired characteristics created regional types with distinct physical and behavioral traits passed on to their offspring.

[1] They are also roughly divided by primary use, whether for eggs, meat, or ornamental purposes, and with some considered to be dual-purpose.

[1] In the 21st century, chickens are frequently bred according to predetermined breed standards set down by governing organizations.

Hybrids do not reliably pass on their features to their offspring, but are highly valued for their producing abilities.

By place of origin: Afghanistan • Albania • Australia • Austria • Belgium • Brazil • Bulgaria • Canada • Chile • China • Croatia • Cuba • Czech Republic • Egypt • Finland • France • Germany • Greece • Iceland • India • Indonesia • Iran • Italy • Japan • Korea • Kosovo • Malaysia • Myanmar • Netherlands • Norway • Pakistan • Philippines • Poland • Portugal • Romania • Russia • Serbia • Slovakia • Slovenia • South Africa • Spain • Sweden • Switzerland • Thailand • Turkey • Ukraine • United Kingdom • United States • Vietnam By primary use: Eggs • Meat • Dual-purpose • Exhibition Other: Bantams • Hybrids See also   •    References   •    Sources All chickens lay eggs, have edible meat, and possess a unique appearance.

Many breeds were selected and are used primarily for producing eggs, these are mostly light-weight birds whose hens do not go broody often.

Many breeds have always been kept for ornamental purposes, and others have been shifted from their original use to become first and foremost exhibition fowl, even if they may retain some inherent utility.