Poultry by definition is any type of bird that has been domesticated for the purpose of production for their meat, eggs, feathers, show, or sport. Some unusual types of animals that can be considered poultry include swans, ostriches, and peacocks. However, the most typical birds considered poultry are chickens, ducks, turkeys, and geese.

Chickens are the most commonly raised type of poultry. They are used in broiler farming (meat) and in layer production for their eggs. Chicken is one of the most popular foods across the globe while eggs are a staple in many recipes.

Most varieties of chickens found today are ancestors of jungle fowl native to Southeast Asia. Chicken fanciers work on improving the appearance of certain breeds to show in competitions. There are literally hundreds of breeds of chickens that have been developed including Rhode Island Reds, the Sussex, Cornish, and the popular Leghorn. Bantams are miniature versions of standard chickens and are popular with the backyard chicken hobbyists.

While turkey is eaten year round, it is most popular during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Turkey not used as large roasters for a holiday feast is processed into products like bologna, turkey bacon, and even turkey steaks. Wild turkeys can still be found roaming different regions of the United States but do not have the same appearance as those found on turkey farms. The Broad-Breasted Large White turkey is the most popular breed on turkey farms as they don't have black marks under the skin which some find unappetizing in the appearance of a finished bird.

Domesticated ducks are typically not used for home food production but more as a yard "pet". However, there are duck farming productions that raise this bird for both meat and eggs. The Pekin duck breed is one of the most popular as they tend to grow quite rapidly. Duck eggs are a delicacy across Europe but are not widely appreciated in North America. In the United States, duck can be found on the menu in more up-scale restaurants and is appreciated by individuals who still hunt ducks during hunting season.

Eating goose as a holiday tradition is quite common in European countries much like eating turkey has become in the US. A goose dinner has yet to catch on in the United States and this bird is more common as an ornamental forager on farms. The goose is an excellent "weeder" in cotton, strawberry, and vegetable fields making the use of pesticides almost unneeded. There are however a few specialty farms in the US that raise geese for food production. Goose feathers are quite popular among both crafters and as a filler for items like pillows.

Pigeons, doves, and pheasant that are game-type birds can also be considered poultry when they have been domesticated and used for the purpose of eating. Peacocks have been considered poultry when they have been raised for the purpose of collecting their plumage. While the chicken, goose, duck, and turkey are the first birds to come to mind when defining poultry, there are many other feathered creatures that can fit into the category.

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