What are basic signs of good health in chickens?

The signs of good health in chickens include alertness, clear eyes, and good manure consistency. When a chicken is alert, it indicates that it is feeling well and engaged with its environment. Clear, bright eyes suggest that the chicken is not suffering from any infections or illnesses, as dull eyes can be a sign of health issues.

Good manure consistency is essential for assessing a chicken's health because it reflects its digestive system's efficiency. Healthy chickens typically produce firm, well-formed droppings, while abnormal consistency can indicate dietary issues or diseases. In contrast, lethargy, ruffled feathers, shivering, and a puffed-up appearance are indicators of potential stress or illness. Therefore, the combination of alertness, bright eyes, and the right manure consistency together represents a healthy chicken and is crucial for poultry management and showmanship.