Gallus gallus
Range
They are found in southern Asia and India, but because of domestication have been introduced around the world.
Habitat
In the wild, they live in tropical and subtropical forests that have openings where the fowl can forage for food.
Body Traits
They are bright, colorful birds with red, gold, orange, yellow and even purple feathers. They can reach 27 inches long (70 cm) and weigh 5.5 pounds. The rooster’s tail can be a foot long by itself. They have a white patch on either side of the face and a fleshy, red comb and waddle. Their legs and feet are grayish.
Habits
They have a “pecking order” in their flock with one dominating male called a cock.
Diet
They eat plants, seeds, worms, grain and insects.
Reproduction
Females lay an egg each day in the spring and summer. They hatch in about 3 weeks. She will care for and protect the chicks until they about 3 months old when she will chase them away from the group.
Lifespan and/or Conservation Status
The can live for 30 years in captivity.
Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Galliformes
Family: Phasianidae
Subfamily: Phasianinae
Genus: Gallus
Species: G. gallus