What is the purpose of plumage in chickens?

The purpose of plumage in chickens primarily serves as insulation and protection from environmental conditions. Chicken feathers create a barrier that helps maintain body temperature, keeping the bird warm in cooler weather and providing some degree of cooling in warmer climates. Additionally, feathers can protect chickens from wind, rain, and other harsh environmental factors, contributing to their overall health and well-being.

While plumage can play a role in attracting mates, especially in certain bird species, this is not its primary function for chickens. Similarly, chickens are not well adapted for flight, so while feathers assist in gliding or short-distance flapping, this is not their main purpose. Lastly, although plumage can vary with maturity, it does not serve as a definitive indicator of age in a way that is consistent across all chickens. Thus, the insulating and protective qualities of plumage are the most significant reasons for its presence in chickens.