To dominate a backyard chicken pageant in this town, a bird must have luxuriant plumage, a plucky personality, and be in good shape. It also helps to show up — with a mite-free derrière. Of the 12 ...

While chickens aren’t usually considered “large” animals, some breeds are surprisingly big, ranging from towering roosters to plump hens as heavy as a small dog. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken ...