Red junglefowl

The red junglefowl, a vibrant tropical bird from the Phasianidae family, originates from Southeast Asia and parts of South Asia. It is widely recognized as the primary ancestor of the domestic chicken, although it has also interbred with other junglefowl species over time. Genetic studies suggest that the domestication of chickens began around 8,000 years ago, eventually leading to their global proliferation for meat and egg production.

Several subspecies of *Gallus gallus* exist, with the domestic chicken being one of them. Red junglefowl males are known for their striking, colorful plumage, which is especially noticeable during mating displays. Unlike their domesticated counterparts, these birds tend to be more cautious and reserved around humans.

Red junglefowl prefer disturbed habitats and forest edges where they can find ample food and cover. They are found throughout Southeast Asia and even into Oceania, thanks to early Austronesian explorers who transported them. While red junglefowl drink surface water, they can also survive without it. They exhibit unique behaviors, such as dust bathing, and specific flight patterns for roosting and avoiding predators.

Breeding in red junglefowl is typically seasonal, with females laying eggs daily during the breeding period. Chicks grow rapidly, fledging in about 4 to 5 weeks and reaching sexual maturity at approximately 5 months. Dominant males are territorial and use courtship behaviors like tidbitting to attract females.

In terms of diet, red junglefowl are opportunistic feeders, consuming fruits, seeds, arthropods, and even small vertebrates. They are adept at finding food in their varied habitats. Even in their wild state, red junglefowl are still valued for their meat and eggs and are occasionally used in cockfighting.

The domestication of chickens involved genetic contributions from various junglefowl species, and hybridization events have been documented. Indigenous village chickens, for instance, show signs of introgressive hybridization. Despite challenges like hybridization with domestic chickens, the red junglefowl is currently listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN.