Hen vs. Pullet — What's the Difference?

In poultry terminology, a hen is an adult female chicken. This term is widely recognized and used when referring to female chickens that have reached maturity, generally over one year of age. Hens are primarily known for their ability to lay eggs, a trait that has made them integral to both commercial egg production and backyard farming. On the other hand, a pullet refers to a young female chicken that has not yet reached this stage of maturity. Pullets are in the transitional phase from chick to hen, a period that is crucial for their growth and future egg-laying capabilities.

The life of a hen begins as a pullet, a term denoting their juvenile stage. During this time, pullets develop physically, their reproductive systems mature, and they gradually start to exhibit the physical characteristics of a hen. While hens are fully grown and often have a fuller, more rounded appearance indicative of their maturity, pullets are typically slimmer and smaller, as they have not yet reached their full adult size or weight. The distinction between a hen and a pullet is not just physical but also relates to their role in the poultry world, with hens being the primary egg producers.

Egg production is a significant difference between hens and pullets. While a hen is actively laying eggs and may even be part of a breeding program, a pullet is still too young for consistent egg production. Pullets might start laying eggs at about 5 to 6 months of age, but these early eggs are often smaller and less frequent. In contrast, hens are at the peak of their egg-laying ability, with egg size, frequency, and quality being more consistent.

In terms of behavior, hens and pullets can exhibit different patterns. Hens are generally more settled and less active compared to pullets, which can be more energetic and skittish. This behavioral difference is partly due to the maturity and experience of hens compared to the youthful exuberance of pullets. Additionally, in a flock, hens usually establish a pecking order, a hierarchical system that determines their social standing, whereas pullets are still navigating and finding their place within this structure.

While both hens and pullets play vital roles in the lifecycle of chickens, their contributions differ significantly due to their stages in life. Hens are the cornerstone of egg production and often represent the mature, stable component of the flock. In contrast, pullets symbolize potential and growth, the future egg layers, and possibly mothers, that will sustain and continue the flock.