Poultry Judging Practice Test

In poultry farming, what does the term "layer" refer to?

1. A type of breed

2. A system of feeding

3. A hen that produces eggs

4. A type of housing

The correct answer is: A hen that produces eggs

The term "layer" specifically refers to a hen that is bred and raised primarily for the purpose of producing eggs. Layers are distinct from broilers, which are chickens raised for meat production. In the context of poultry farming, layers are selected based on their ability to produce a high volume of eggs consistently over a given period. These hens are often part of commercial egg-laying operations, where factors such as feed, lighting, and housing are optimized to maximize egg production. In contrast, the other choices do not accurately define what a layer is. While there are various breeds of chickens, not all of them are classified as layers; some may be better suited for meat production or ornamental purposes. A system of feeding refers to how birds are nourished but does not define the term "layer." Similarly, a type of housing might pertain to the environment where chickens are raised, but it is unrelated to the specific role of layers in egg production. Thus, recognizing that layers are fundamentally about egg-laying hens is crucial in understanding the terminology used in poultry farming.