Which birds are most commonly raised in poultry farming?

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In the context of animal husbandry, the birds most commonly raised in poultry farming are chickens, ducks, turkeys, and geese, which hold primary commercial importance worldwide.1

  • Chickens: These are the most widely domesticated fowl, raised globally for their meat and eggs. They represent the largest domestic animal stock in the world.41
  • Turkeys: Raised in significant numbers, particularly in North America and parts of Europe, turkeys are primarily bred for meat production.23
  • Ducks and Geese: These are often raised as small-farm enterprises, though commercial operations exist. Ducks are valued for both meat and egg production, while geese are raised for meat, eggs, and down feathers.4

Other birds, such as guinea fowl and pigeons (raised for their nestlings, known as squabs), are also utilized in poultry farming but are generally of more local or niche interest rather than being primary commercial staples.51