Chickens may be homebodies, but they sure get around.

You’ll find them scratching in rural backyards, urban gardens, mountain villages, and seaside towns – pretty much anywhere humans live. They’re egg layers, garden helpers, bug control teams, and sometimes even family pets. But depending on where you go in the world, chickens (and the people who keep them) can look a little different.

Let’s take a fun little trip around the globe to see where chickens live, what breeds are popular where, and just how many of these feathered friends are out there.

Chickens by the numbers

Let’s start with some big-picture facts.

• There are over 34 billion chickens in the world at any given time. That’s more than four chickens for every single human.
• The top five chicken-keeping countries (by population) are China, Indonesia, the United States, Brazil, and India.
• Chickens are the most numerous bird species on earth – and probably the most photographed, too (at least on your Instagram feed).

If you’ve ever thought, “Is it weird that I love my chickens so much?” – nope. You’re in excellent company.

Backyard flocks around the world

No two chicken keepers are exactly alike, and that goes for countries, too. Here’s a peek into what backyard chickens look like around the world.

France – gourmet birds and chic coops

French chicken keepers don’t mess around. Their famous Bresse chicken isn’t just a breed – it’s a culinary treasure. These blue-footed white birds are raised under strict conditions and are said to be the best-tasting chickens in the world. Even for everyday keepers, coops tend to be neat, tidy, and maybe a little bit stylish (leave it to the French).

United States – from farmyards to fancy coops

From small-town farms to urban backyards, chicken keeping in the US is booming. Popular breeds include Rhode Island Reds, Plymouth Rocks, and the Instagram-favorite Silkie. Coops range from simple shacks to elaborate chicken mansions – complete with chandeliers, murals, and mini porches. (We’re not judging. We’re impressed.)

Japan – ornamental chickens and balcony coops

In Japan, chickens can be both practical and ornamental. The Onagadori breed is famous for its absurdly long tail feathers (up to 10 feet long!). Many Japanese keepers treat chickens with deep care and even spiritual respect. And yes, there are stylish, space-saving coops for small yards and balconies.

Kenya – everyday village chickens

In Kenya, chickens are part of everyday rural life. Most are indigenous mixed breeds and free-range, often running around the yard or village. Hens provide eggs, meat, and a small but important income source for many families. And kids growing up with chickens? That’s just normal life.

Iceland and Scandinavia – cold-hardy hens

Keeping chickens where winters are long and dark takes a bit of grit (and the right breeds). Enter the Icelandic chicken – a hardy, clever, and beautiful landrace breed. In Scandinavia, chickens often live in insulated coops and get extra light during winter months to keep laying steady.

India – native breeds and rooftop coops

In both rural and urban India, chickens are common – especially native breeds like the Kadaknath, known for its black meat. Some chickens roam freely while others live in rooftop coops above family homes. And yes, chickens often snack on leftover curry rice. (They’re not picky.)

The Sailing Chicken

You can even find chickens in some pretty unexpected places. A Frenchman named Guirec Soudée famously sailed around the world with a red hen named Monique. She lived on his boat for five years and joined him on expeditions to Antarctica and Greenland. If that’s not a well-traveled chicken, we don’t know what is.

Breeds of the world

You may already know your Orpington from your Australorp – but have you heard of these international beauties?

• Ayam Cemani (Indonesia) – This mysterious all-black bird (feathers, beak, skin, and even organs) is considered lucky in parts of Indonesia. It’s a real conversation starter.
• Faverolles (France) – Fluffy beards, five toes, and gentle personalities make them perfect for cuddles and cottage-core vibes.
• Swedish Flower Hen (Sweden) – Brightly patterned and hardy, these charming birds are rare but growing in popularity.
• Serama (Malaysia) – The tiniest chicken breed in the world. They stand tall like little soldiers and often live indoors as pets.
• Araucana (South America) – Famous for their beautiful blue eggs and lack of tail feathers. These are the original colored-egg layers.

If you’re looking to add some international flair to your flock, many of these breeds are now available (or have lookalike cousins) in the US and Europe.

Chickens: a global phenomenon

Chickens are part of daily life for millions of people around the world. In some places, they’re essential for food security and income. In others, they’re part of a sustainable lifestyle, a quirky hobby, or a way to connect with nature. Whether you keep chickens for eggs, meat, entertainment, or to reduce kitchen waste, you’re joining a long and diverse tradition.

Backyard coops might look different in Tokyo, Nairobi, Paris, or your hometown, but the joy of watching a hen scratch through leaves or come running at feeding time is universal.