The most commercially important poultry species globally. Divided into broilers (meat), layers (eggs), breeders, and backyard/heritage breeds. Explore commercial strains in our Breed Directory.

The second largest poultry meat industry globally. Commercial turkeys (e.g., Nicholas 700 strain) are raised for white breast meat. Market weight: 10–20 kg at 12–20 weeks of age. The USA produces over 215 million turkeys per year.

Raised for meat (Pekin/White Pekin duck reaches 3.5 kg in 6 weeks) and eggs (Khaki Campbell: 300+ eggs/year). Waterfowl naturally resistant to some avian viruses but susceptible to Avian Influenza.

Raised for meat, liver (foie gras), down feathers, and weed control in orchards. Heavy breeds (Toulouse, Embden) reach 7–10 kg. Hardy and adaptable to pasture-based systems.

Japanese quail are among the fastest-maturing poultry (meat at 5–6 weeks, laying at 6–7 weeks). Produce small, speckled gourmet eggs (10–12g each). Very low housing requirements and are gaining popularity for commercial and backyard production.

Hardy, disease-resistant birds raised for lean, game-flavored meat and pest control. Popular in sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Europe. Market weight 1.2–1.5 kg at 12 weeks.

Young pigeons (squab) are harvested at 25–30 days of age (before flight feathers develop) for their tender, dark meat. A delicacy in high-end restaurant markets globally.

The world's largest living bird. Raised for red meat (low-fat, high-protein), premium leather hides, and decorative feathers. Market weight 90–120 kg at 10–14 months. Primarily farmed in South Africa, Australia, and the USA.

Australian ratite farmed for lean red meat, therapeutic emu oil (anti-inflammatory), and leather. Reach 40–55 kg at 18 months. Emus are highly efficient grazers requiring minimal grain supplementation.

Game birds raised on game farms for traditional hunting, meat, and ornamental purposes. Require low-density outdoor pens with adequate vegetation cover to reduce stress and feather pecking.