Shocking Lifespan Discovery: How Long Do Chickens Really Live Forever?

Sat, 02 May 2026 17:11:33 +0000

Shocking Lifespan Discovery: How Long Do Chickens Really Live? When most people think of chickens, longevity isn’t usually the first image that comes to mind—after all, they’re often associated with short, factory-farmed lives. But recent research and surprising findings are redefining what we know about these feathered friends, challenging long-held beliefs: How long do chickens actually live, and are they capable of living “forever”? ### The Traditional View: Short Lives, Short Production Conventionally, chickens are viewed as sounding poultry with relatively short lifespans—most commercial breeds live 5 to 8 years, though many face much shorter lives in intensive farming. Commercial production cycles often end by 18–24 months, prioritizing egg or meat output over longevity. This perception suggests limited lifespan, typically not exceeding a few years.