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 who are raised for commercial egg or meat production have a shorter lifespan due to the nature of their purpose. 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 to Give Your Chickens a Long, Healthy Life

Ensure your backyard flock gets a healthy start as chicks is vital in their livelihood and long-term health. Baby chicks’ digestive and immune systems are very fragile. Giving them the right food (chick feed), vitamins and minerals, prebiotics, probiotics and even oregano essential oils gives them what they need to grow into healthy backyard chickens.