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Leading animal behavior scientists from across the globe now tell us that chickens are inquisitive and interesting animals whose cognitive abilities are more advanced than those of cats, dogs, and even some primates. Chickens understand sophisticated intellectual concepts, they learn from watching each other, they demonstrate self-control, they worry about the future, and even have cultural knowledge that is passed from generation to generation.

Chickens comprehend cause-and-effect relationships and understand that objects still exist even after they are hidden from view. This puts the cognitive abilities of chickens above those of small human children. Scientists are so impressed with what we now know about the intellect of chickens and other birds that a group of international experts recently called for a new naming system to reflect the complex, mammal-like structure of avian brains. Dr. Christine Nicol, who studies chicken intelligence, reflected, They may be bird brains,but we n…

Brainy, Social, Talkin Birds with Big Personalities

Chicken's make fun pets
Chickens make great yard pets, and they can be as much fun as cats and dogs. I keep a few chickens in the yard as pets, and everyday when the weather is good I let them out of the fenced chicken yard and into the open yard. I try to wait till noon to let them out, hoping that they will be done with their egg laying and that other creatures that may prey on my chickens will have already found their meal elseware. My chickens like to play in the open yard, and when they see me comming to let them out its like watching an anxous child. Another advantage of letting the chickens out is it's easier to clean the hen house when they are not under foot. Sometimes I close the gate behind them so I can finish without having their help.

One of the first things you need to consider when your thinking about getting chickens are where are they going to sleep. Your not building a Hen House or chicken coop to keep the …