Gallina

Gallina is a term used in several Romance languages to refer to a female chicken, especially in Spanish and Italian. The word derives from Latin gallina, the feminine form of gallus (rooster). In English, gallina is not commonly used except in borrowed or specialized contexts.

In biological terms, the domestic chicken is Gallus gallus domesticus, descended from the red junglefowl (Gallus gallus) in Southeast Asia. Domestication began thousands of years ago, and selective breeding has produced a wide range of breeds optimized for egg production, meat, or dual-purpose use. Today, chickens are kept worldwide for agricultural, agricultural, and pet purposes.

A mature hen, the female of the species, is typically capable of laying eggs. Hens vary in size, plumage, and egg-laying capacity across breeds. Key anatomical features include a comb and wattles, which can differ in prominence by breed and sex. Life expectancy varies by management conditions, with many kept in production systems or as backyard poultry.

Human use of the gallina spans food production and farming. Hens and other chickens provide eggs, a major source of animal protein globally, as well as meat. In agricultural settings, hens may be raised specifically for laying or for meat, while backyard flocks often serve multiple purposes. The term gallina also appears in culinary contexts and labeling across Spanish- and Italian-language cuisines.

See also: Gallus gallus, domestic chicken, poultry farming.