Both the comb and the wattle are fleshy growths on the cranial region of the chicken. These two structures express the chickens sexual maturity which helps attract mates. The comb and wattle are ornamental and vary in size and shape. The size and color are dependent on sex hormones and this display is what hens are attracted to in roosters.
Others functions of the comb and wattle include regulating the chickens body temperature along with indicating the overall health of the bird. Blood circulates through the capillaries and veins that run through the comb and wattle which cools the overheated blood. This blood flow is why the comb and wattle have a red color. To determine the overall health of the chicken the color and condition of these structures are examined. Pale colored and blemished combs and wattles show signs of an unhealthy chicken while red and intact combs and wattles are signs of good health.
The ear lobe is a flappy part of skin that is located below the ear hole. The color of the ear lobe can indicate what color egg shell a hen will lay. For the chicken pictured the ear lobe is white, therefore the egg shell will be white.
A chicken's ear consists of two openings on each side of their head. The ear opening is superior to the ear lobe and is covered in feathers that are very different from the rest of the feathers on the chicken's body. These special feathers protect the ear while still allowing for the chicken to hear. The ability to hear as great affect of the chicken's survival.
Chicken feathers are made up of keratin and are arranged differently depending on the region of the body. These feathers protect the chicken from cold temperatures and insulate the body.
Layer hens usually go through a seasonal molt. This occurs when there are less hours of day light. Feather loss with take place on the head first and then move to other parts of the body like the neck, body, wings and finally the tail. The chickens body then has to focus on the regrowth of feathers which affects the chicken by stopping egg production. This allows the feathers to take priority in obtaining the nutrients within the chickens body.
The brachial vein is the primary vein used for blood collection in chickens. This large vein is located on the medial side of the wing and lies within an indent. This indent is created by the biceps brachialis and the triceps humeralis within the wing.
The uropygial gland is a sebaceous gland that can be found dorsal and at the base of the tail. This gland secretes oils and the chicken is responsible for spreading them by utilizing their preening behaviors. The preening process consists of the chicken moving their feathers around with their beaks. This oil helps to protect the chicken by applying it's waterproofing qualities to the chicken's outermost protective layer (feathers).
The oral cavity of the chicken does not consist of any teeth but does have a triangular tongue that lies between the upper and lower portion of the beak. Chickens do not chew what they consume instead they swallow food and it gets further broken down in the gizzard. The oral cavity has a secretion role that helps with digestion. Amylase is the enzyme that is secreted which breaks down starch substances.
The chickens eye is very important in order for survival. Chickens use their eyes to track the movement around them which helps them in cases of predator attack. They also are able to see different colors and visuals which help them perform their live necessities like eating. Chickens have great eye sight which helps them locate insects to consume.
A chicken's third eyelid is called a nictating membrane that lies on the eye in order to protect the eye from debris and create lubrication for the true eyelids. The eyelid originates from the medial point of the eye and then extends across the eye horizontally. It is hard to see this third eyelid as it is a clear membrane.
Barbara getting ready to go tailgating.