Yes, chickens can fly, but not for long distances.
According to BBC Wildlife Magazine, unlike other birds, chickens are not bred to fly. Most domesticated chickens are bred for food, not flight. Domesticated chickens descend from red junglefowl of southeast Asia. (BBC Wildlife Magazine, 23-May-2023)
Here's a breakdown:
- Limited Flight: While chickens are capable of flight, their abilities are limited compared to wild birds.
- Breeding: Domesticated chickens have been selectively bred for traits like meat and egg production, rather than flight capability.
- Ancestry: Chickens are descendants of the red junglefowl, which could fly, but domestication has changed their physical characteristics.
In short, chickens can fly, but their flight is typically short and not particularly graceful.
