Poultry Judging Practice Test

What muscle comprises the breast of a broiler or turkey?

1. Pectoralis hybrid

2. Pectoralis major

3. Coracobrachialis

4. Serratus anterior

The correct answer is: Pectoralis major

The breast of a broiler or turkey is primarily composed of the pectoralis major muscle. This muscle is crucial for wing movement in birds, playing a significant role in their flight, although domesticated birds like broilers and turkeys are bred for meat production and do not fly. The pectoralis major is a large, powerful muscle that is well-developed in these poultry species, contributing to the meaty breast cut that is highly valued in the market. This muscle's prominence in the anatomy of broilers and turkeys is a key factor in their classification and selection for poultry judging, as the size and condition of the breast muscle are indicators of quality and yield in processing. Understanding the anatomical structure of poultry helps in evaluating their overall meat production potential.