The main purposes for keeping chickens are for eggs, for meat, for both eggs and meat, for exhibition, and for fun. Theoretically, these purposes are not mutually exclusive, but in reality a breed or hybrid that is considered suitable for both meat and egg production — called a dualpurpose or utility chicken — neither is as efficient at producing eggs as a layer breed nor grows as rapidly as a meat breed.
Likewise, a strain that is developed primarily for exhibition generally does not lay as well or grow as fast as a strain within the same breed that has been developed for egg or meat production. Of course, if you want chickens just for fun, your choice is limited only by which breeds you most enjoy looking at. You can learn more about the various available breeds and hybrids by visiting hatchery websites, by reviewing hatchery catalogs, and by reading a comprehensive book such as Storey’s Illustrated Guide to Poultry Breeds.
If your interest is primarily in exhibition, the American Poultry Association’s illustrated and periodically updated Standard of Perfection is a must-have. Once you start homing in on a particular breed, seek out a regional or national club devoted to promoting that breed. Most such clubs have websites offering information and photographs on their chosen breed. Below is a quick review of the major breeds and hybrids, and the purpose to which each is best suited.
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