Poultry Judging Practice Test

How many primary feathers are found on a wing of a white leghorn hen?

1. 8

2. 10

3. 12

4. 14

The correct answer is: 10

A white leghorn hen typically has 10 primary feathers on each wing. These primary feathers are critical for the bird's flight capabilities, providing the necessary lift and maneuverability. In chickens and many bird species, the primary feathers are the longest feathers on the wing and play a significant role in flight dynamics. The count of primary feathers can vary among different breeds of poultry, but for white leghorns specifically, the established standard recognizes 10 as the accurate number. Understanding this aspect of poultry anatomy is important for anyone involved in poultry judging, as it helps in assessing the bird's conformation and overall suitability for various purposes, including egg production and showing.