Where does the yellow color in the skin and beak of chickens originate?

The yellow color in the skin and beak of chickens primarily originates from xanthophyll, which is a type of carotenoid pigment found in certain feed ingredients, particularly corn and green grasses. When chickens consume these feeds, the xanthophyll is absorbed and deposited in their skin and beak, giving them the characteristic yellow hue.

This pigment plays not only an aesthetic role but is also important as it can indicate a bird's overall health and diet quality to the observer. A rich source of xanthophyll is corn, a staple feed component for poultry, which is why many chickens exhibit prominent yellow pigmentation.

While carotene from leafy greens can contribute to skin color, xanthophyll is the more significant factor for chickens specifically, especially in terms of commercial feeds and husbandry practices. Natural pigmentation in feathers and dietary additives may impact overall presentation, but they do not primarily determine the yellow coloration in the skin and beak.