According to science, chickens are smarter than you’d think. From communication and empathy to memory, counting, and even self-control, studies suggest that your chickens have more mental abilities than you may realize. Don’t believe us? See for yourself with these 6 easy tests. They’re fun for you, enriching for your chickens, and a great way to strengthen your bond.
1. Memory & Recognition
Place some Grubs & Grits under one of two identical cups. Let the chicken watch, then move the cups around. The goal is to see if they remember which cup hides the treat.
What it shows: Working memory and attention
2. Food Call Observation
Listen to the call roosters or dominant hens make when they find food. They’ll often make a special “tidbitting” call (short, rhythmic clucks) to attract others. See how the rest of the flock responds, if they rush over, they understand the message.
What it shows: Intentional communication
Did you know? The calls chickens make are said to be “functionally referential,” meaning they convey specific information like “hawk overhead” or “food found,” not just fear or excitement. Kind of like a secret language!
3. Counting & Quantity Choice
Place two piles of treats (say, 3 vs. 5 grubs) a short distance apart. Let a chicken choose which pile.
What it shows: Signs of numerical awareness.
4. Human Interaction Test
Sit calmly near your chickens and notice how they respond to your voice, gestures, or tone. Try gentle hand signals linked with treats.
What it shows: Whether they can learn to interpret human cues & emotions.
5. Social Learning
Teach one chicken to perform a simple task (like pecking a bell for a treat). Then let others watch and see if they copy.
What it shows: Imitation and understanding of cause and effect from observation.
6. Puzzle Problem Solving
Hide Grubs & Grits inside a container that can be opened by pecking, pulling, or flipping. Do they experiment with different actions to get the treat? Do they remember how to open it the next time?
What it shows: Problem solving and innovation
Note: Make sure the puzzle is solvable within a few minutes, frustration defeats the purpose. Offer a treat even if they can’t solve it at first.
Did you know? Chickens use past experiences, situational understanding, and even empathy to make decisions and solve problems. We're not saying they always make the right decision, but who does.
Remember!
Keep it fun, short, and stress-free. Use treats as rewards, let them join in voluntarily, and work in a familiar space. Observe quietly, reward effort whether they complete it or not, and avoid fear or frustration. This is an opportunity to improve your bond, so there shouldn’t be any pressure.
That's a lot of brains to test!
Make sure you have enough Grubs & Grits so you can reward them for all their hard work.
