Raising backyard chickens is one of life’s simple joys. Between collecting fresh eggs, watching their quirky behaviour, and seeing them waddle about like they own the garden, it doesn’t take long before each bird’s personality starts to shine through.
And once that happens, they deserve names that reflect who they are, from bold and bossy hens to laid-back roosters who never seem to be in a rush. Choosing the right name can make your flock feel even more like family.
Some people prefer classic chicken names like Henrietta or Goldie, while others love playful and pun-filled ones such as Cluck Norris or Hen Solo. You might even find inspiration from food, pop culture, or your favourite TV show. No matter your style, there’s a perfect name waiting for every bird in your coop.
This article is for general interest only and is based on popular naming trends and pet owner recommendations.
1. Names For Female Chickens
Your hens bring personality, rhythm, and charm to the coop, so their names should reflect that same sparkle. Sweet, sunny characters fit names like Marigold, Poppy, or Sunny, which sound just as cheerful as their clucks.
For hens with a touch of grace, elegant names like Cleo, Pearl, or Sophie add a lovely sophistication to your flock. And for those who rule the roost with confidence, Cluckopatra always earns a laugh, a playful nod to a hen who carries herself like royalty in feathers.
2. Names For Male Chickens
Roosters tend to have big personalities and even bigger voices, so their names should stand tall, too. Strong and classic names such as Rusty, Jet, or Bruno perfectly suit birds who take pride in their morning crowing.
If your rooster has a sense of humour or enjoys strutting his stuff, you might go for something like Sir Pecks-a-Lot, General Tso, or Captain Peck. For those with charm to spare, Cluckie Smalls always adds a grin to the day, a name for the bird who loves attention and knows he’s the star of the show.
3. Popular Chicken Names
Some names never go out of style because they simply fit chickens so well. Beloved classics like Ginger, Henrietta, Rosie, and Goldie have been favourites for decades, evoking an image of a happy, bustling hen in the yard.
Meanwhile, names such as Clementine, Lemon, and Lady Bird bring a more modern twist; bright, fresh, and just a little whimsical. These names suit any hen with a warm heart or a sunny temperament, and they instantly make your flock feel like family.
4. Old-Fashioned Chicken Names
If your hens remind you of simpler times, an old-fashioned name adds a nostalgic touch. Think Martha, Betty, Ruth, or Agnes, charming names that recall the days of rustic farmhouses and gingham aprons.
These time-honoured choices suit hens that seem wise, nurturing, or quietly confident. Giving your chicken a vintage name is a sweet way to honour the heritage of backyard farming while keeping a little tradition alive in your coop.
5. Funny Chicken Names
Not all chickens take themselves seriously, and neither should their names. Some are natural comedians who deserve something clever and memorable. A bird with a dramatic streak might be Moira Rose, while an adventurous hen could be Hen Solo.
Pun lovers can’t go wrong with Cluck Norris, Hennifer Garner, or Fowler, and truly eccentric chickens might just pull off Queen Snotgrass or Lady Featherington. These names bring a smile every time you collect eggs or stop by the coop because who doesn’t love a bit of humour in their flock?
6. Food-Inspired Chicken Names
Food inspired names are cheeky, light hearted, and endlessly popular. A hen named Nugget, Cookie, or Omelet adds instant fun to your morning rounds, while bolder names like Curry, Marsala, or Buffalo playfully nod to favourite dishes.
Some keepers even choose names like Drumstick or Kiev for a little kitchen humour. Just maybe skip Rotisserie if you don’t want to raise eyebrows at feeding time. These names bring out the fun, foodie side of chicken keeping and are perfect for owners with a playful sense of humour.
7. Colour-Inspired Chicken Names
Feathers come in every shade imaginable, making colour a wonderful source of inspiration. A snowy hen might suit Cotton Ball, Ivory, or Coconut, while a rich chestnut bird could shine as Hazel, Espresso, or Brownie.
For golden feathered beauties, try Amber, Butter, or Goldie. And for the more vibrant personalities, Violet, Scarlet, or Bluebell make gorgeous choices that capture both hue and attitude. These names celebrate your chicken’s natural beauty and make it easy to tell your flock apart at a glance.
8. Nature-Inspired Chicken Names
If your chickens spend their days scratching under the apple tree or basking in the sunshine, a nature themed name might be just right. Try Willow, Maple, or River for calm and graceful hens, or Basil, Thyme, and Cedar for curious foragers who love to explore.
These earthy, peaceful names bring the spirit of the outdoors into your flock and remind you how closely your chickens are connected to the rhythms of nature.
9. Famous And Pop Culture Chicken Names
For fans of film, television, and music, pop culture offers endless inspiration. Outgoing roosters might live up to Foghorn Leghorn, while sweet but jumpy hens could carry the names Chicken Little or Henny Penny.
Disney lovers might choose Hei Hei from Moana or Camilla, the ever faithful companion of Gonzo in The Muppets. Giving your chickens names from the screen adds personality and a touch of humour that makes them unforgettable.
10. Names For Chicken Pairs
Some chickens are inseparable, always eating, scratching, and roosting side by side. Pair names like Bonnie and Clyde, Salt and Pepper, or Mickey and Minnie are timeless duos that never fail to charm. For something quirkier, Nachos and Burrito, Pebbles and BamBam, or Sugar and Spice make a fun twist.
Matching names highlight the sweet friendships that form between your birds and add a personal touch to your flock’s little community.
11. Country-Inspired Chicken Names
If you’re a fan of country life or classic country music, let your flock reflect that down to earth spirit. Names like Dolly, Loretta, Willie, and Hank bring instant Southern flair, while Reba, Toby, or Carrie pay tribute to country legends.
These names are full of charm and heart, perfect for chickens who make every sunrise feel like a scene from a farmyard ballad.
12. Final Thoughts
Naming your chickens is one of the most joyful parts of keeping a flock. Whether you choose something funny, sentimental, or inspired by nature, the best name is the one that makes you smile every time you call it out.
Chickens may not always come when they’re called, but giving them names that reflect their individuality turns an ordinary backyard into a cheerful, feather filled community you’ll love for years to come.
