Chickens

Chickens. . As European immigrants and settlers came to America, many came with chickens in tow. Some were raised on farms and in towns sharing living space with the farmer in their house or outbuildings, free to roam the fields foraging for food and even living among the many other animals on the farm. On most farms in early 20th century America, it was the women and children who largely looked after the flock., Chickens were an important part of the daily life of the Florida pioneer. They were a source of eggs and meat for the family. Feathers were used to stuff mattresses/pillows and used as writing implements. Eggs and chickens could also be sold locally to generate cash money for the family to purchase everyday items which otherwise would have to be bought on credit until crops or cattle were sold., Fun Facts: , . Chickens can distinguish among more than 100 faces of members of their species. , . The color of a hen's egg is determined by the breed of chicken. , . A hen (female) does not need a rooster (male) to lay an egg. Hens lay an average of 300 eggs per year. Americans eat an average of 251 eggs per year.