Chickens typically have brown eyes, but some breeds can have blue, green, or even orange eyes depending on genetic variations.
Chicken eyes come in a rainbow of colors from deep red to pearl white. While most chickens have reddish-brown eyes, some breeds display stunning blue, green, or even black eyes. Their eye color reveals fascinating details about their genetics, health, and unique visual abilities that surpass human sight.
Common Chicken Eye Colors
The most frequent eye colors in chickens include:
- Reddish-brown – The standard color for most breeds
- Golden/amber – Common in Rhode Island Reds and similar breeds
- Yellow – Often seen in lighter-colored chickens
- Orange/copper – A vibrant variation of the typical eye color
According to poultry experts, the most common chicken eye color is reddish-brown. This warm hue helps protect their eyes from sunlight while providing excellent daytime vision.
Rare Chicken Eye Colors
Some chickens develop extraordinary eye colors due to genetics or health conditions:
Blue Eyes
Cochin chickens and some mixed breeds may have striking blue eyes. This rare trait often appears in chicks but usually darkens as they mature.
Pearl Eyes
Game birds sometimes display pearlescent white, gray, or greenish eyes. These “pearl eyes” are genetic but often mistaken for Marek’s disease.
Black Eyes
Fibromelanistic breeds like Ayam Cemani may have eyes so dark they appear black. This results from excessive melanin pigmentation.
How Eye Color Changes
Chicken eyes transform dramatically from chick to adult:
- Chicks often have blue, gray, or greenish eyes
- Eye color typically darkens by 8-12 weeks
- Most develop reddish-brown eyes by adulthood
- Some retain unusual colors into maturity
This color shift resembles how human babies’ eyes often change after birth. If you’re raising baby chickens, watch their eye color evolve as they grow.
Eye Color and Health
Abnormal eye colors can indicate health issues:
| Eye Color | Possible Condition |
|---|---|
| Steely gray | Ocular Marek’s disease |
| Cloudy white | Cataracts or blindness |
| Red/purple | Albinism (very rare) |
Chickens with Marek’s disease often develop grayish-green eyes before going blind. Regular health checks help catch these issues early.
Chicken Vision Capabilities
Chickens see the world very differently than humans:
- They can see ultraviolet light invisible to humans
- Their color vision exceeds ours with more cone types
- They have a 300° field of view compared to our 180°
- Each eye works independently for better predator detection
This exceptional vision helps them spot predators and find food. Their third eyelid (nictitating membrane) acts like built-in safety goggles.
Breed-Specific Eye Colors
Some breeds commonly display unique eye colors:
- Light Brahma: Often have blue eyes
- Ayam Cemani: Typically black or very dark brown eyes
- Easter Eggers: May show greenish eye tones
- White Leghorns: Usually bright orange eyes
If you’re curious about other breed traits, check out egg colors by breed as well.
Caring for Chicken Eyes
Keep your flock’s eyes healthy with these tips:
- Provide clean, dust-free living conditions
- Watch for swelling, discharge, or cloudiness
- Separate birds showing signs of eye problems
- Consult a vet for persistent issues
- Avoid bright lights that could damage vision
Remember that chickens rely heavily on their vision. Protecting their eye health helps ensure their safety and quality of life.