Pullet

Pullet

A Pullet is a term used in poultry farming to refer to a young female chicken that is less than one year old and has not yet begun to lay eggs. The term is often used in contrast to the term "cockerel", which refers to a young male chicken of the same age.

Etymology

The term "pullet" originates from the Middle English word "pulet", which in turn is derived from the Old French word "poulet", meaning a young chicken. The term is still used today in modern poultry farming to differentiate between young female chickens and other types of poultry.

Characteristics

Pullets typically reach sexual maturity and begin laying eggs at around 5 to 6 months of age, although this can vary depending on the breed of the chicken. Pullets are generally smaller in size than mature hens and have a more streamlined appearance. They also have less developed combs and wattles compared to mature hens.

Pullet eggs

Pullet eggs, also known as "pullet-size" eggs, are the first eggs laid by pullets when they reach sexual maturity. These eggs are typically smaller than the eggs laid by mature hens. Despite their smaller size, pullet eggs are often considered to be of higher quality than the eggs laid by older hens, as they have a higher yolk-to-white ratio and a firmer texture.

See also

• Broiler
• Capon
• Rooster
• Hen

References

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