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Annual observance

International Respect for Chickens Day

May 4 Cultural / community observance Updated 2025-12-17

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Overview

International Respect for Chickens Day is observed annually on May 4th, established by United Poultry Concerns (UPC). This day aims to raise awareness about the intelligence, complex social behaviors, and individuality of chickens, promoting their welfare and advocating against the cruelties often faced by chickens in industrial agriculture. It encourages people to reconsider how they view and treat these birds, highlighting their sentience and right to a respectful existence.

Observed each year on May 4, International Respect for Chickens Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: International Respect for Chickens Day on May 4th emphasizes the need to recognize chickens as sentient beings deserving of compassion and humane treatment. By raising awareness of their intelligence and social behaviors, this observance challenges societal norms surrounding animal welfare in industrial agriculture.

Origin and story

Chickens are believed to have descended from the red junglefowl, native to Southeast Asia.

An adult chicken can communicate using over 20 different vocalizations, each with a specific meaning.

Quick facts

  • DateMay 4
  • TypeCultural / community observance
  • Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Write a note or journal entry on why International Respect for Chickens Day matters, then set a reminder for next year.
  • Bring International Respect for Chickens Day to work or school with a short shout-out in a meeting or group chat.
  • Post a story with #international-respect-for-chickens-day and invite others to try a tiny activity.
  • Add International Respect for Chickens Day to your Obscure Holiday Calendar app widget so you get a reminder next year.
  • Plan something small on May 4: a quick nod to International Respect for Chickens Day with friends, family, or coworkers.

Fun facts

  • Chickens are believed to have descended from the red junglefowl, native to Southeast Asia.
  • An adult chicken can communicate using over 20 different vocalizations, each with a specific meaning.
  • Chickens have an excellent memory and can recognize up to 100 different faces of other chickens and humans.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.

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FAQ

When is International Respect for Chickens Day?
It is observed on May 4 each year.
What is International Respect for Chickens Day?
International Respect for Chickens Day is observed annually on May 4th, established by United Poultry Concerns (UPC). This day aims to raise awareness about the intelligence, complex social behaviors, and individuality of chickens, promoting their welfare and advocating against the cruelties often faced by chickens in industrial agriculture. It encourages people to reconsider how they view and treat these birds, highlighting their sentience and right to a respectful existence.
How do people celebrate International Respect for Chickens Day?
Write a note or journal entry on why International Respect for Chickens Day matters, then set a reminder for next year.

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