Poultry Judging Practice Test

How many heartbeats per minute does a chicken have while at rest?

1. 150

2. 200

3. 250

4. 300

The correct answer is: 300

The average resting heart rate of a chicken typically ranges between 250 to 300 beats per minute. Chickens, being smaller birds, have a significantly higher metabolic rate compared to larger animals, which is reflected in their faster heart rate. This elevated heart rate at rest supports their active lifestyle, including foraging and flying short distances in their natural environments. While the other options present various heart rates, the figure of 300 beats per minute is consistent with the physiological characteristics noted in studies and observations of avian species, particularly with poultry. Understanding these values is essential for poultry health, as deviations can indicate stress, illness, or other health issues, making it crucial for those studying poultry to be familiar with these benchmarks.