Whether you're talking about chicks, roosters, hens, or meat birds, they’re all chickens.. The roosters, on the other hand, are relentless protectors of their hens.
Roosters can usually be differentiated from hens by their striking plumage, marked by long flowing tails and bright pointed feathers on their necks.. Specialized breeds such as broilers and laying hens have been developed for meat and egg production, respectively.