Poultry Judging Practice Test

What is the typical lifespan of a laying hen?

1. 1-2 years

2. 3-4 years

3. 5-6 years

4. 7-8 years

The correct answer is: 3-4 years

The typical lifespan of a laying hen is generally around 3 to 4 years. This period reflects the time in which hens are usually most productive in terms of egg laying. During their peak production years, hens can lay around 250 to 300 eggs annually, but this production declines as they age. After about 4 years, the egg production of hens significantly drops, and while they may still live longer and remain healthy, they are often culled from production flocks due to decreased egg output. Some hens may live longer, up to 5 or 6 years, but they typically are not as productive after the 3 to 4-year mark. This understanding of lifespan helps in managing flocks for both production and animal welfare considerations.