Cornish Hens

Cornish Hen

The Cornish hen is a broad-breasted, muscular chicken breed known for its compact size, rapid growth, and excellent meat quality. Originally developed in England, Cornish chickens are now widely used in the commercial broiler industry and backyard meat production.

Appearance:

• Size: Short and stocky with a wide breast and muscular build.
• Feathering: Tight and sleek, with less fluff than most breeds.
• Color Varieties: Most common are White Cornish and Dark Cornish.
• Comb: Small pea comb.
• Legs/Feet: Thick, yellow legs with a strong stance.

Temperament:

• Active and curious, but can be assertive.
• Hens are usually calm and easy to manage.
• Not typically raised for personality, but still manageable in small flocks.

Purpose:

• Meat production breed: Cornish hens are the foundation of the modern broiler industry.
• Known for fast growth, wide breast meat, and high feed conversion.
• Processed early (usually 4–6 weeks) when marketed as “Cornish game hens.”

Egg Production:

• Low egg production – typically 100–150 small brown eggs per year.
• Not ideal for laying; primarily raised for meat purposes.

Care Notes:

• Requires a high-protein diet for optimal growth.
• Can become overweight or develop leg issues if kept long-term.
• Best housed on dry bedding and managed for hygiene due to their size and growth rate.