Why Do We Eat Chickens Instead of Seagulls or Swans? 0 30

Domestic chickens are descended from the red junglefowl and were domesticated around 2000 BC, likely initially for cockfighting. These birds are easy to keep: they do not undertake long migrations, are relatively undemanding, and are well-suited for mass breeding.

Other birds, such as seagulls or swans, are significantly more difficult to maintain: they fly long distances, have specific environmental and dietary requirements. Swans were consumed in the past; however, their meat had a pronounced fishy taste and required complicated preparation. Additionally, breeding such birds required more effort, making them unsuitable for large-scale production. Chickens, on the other hand, also provide eggs, which further increases their value.

Thus, the combination of ease of raising, taste properties, and historical factors has made chickens the primary source of meat among domestic birds.