A hen is a female chicken, a domesticated bird commonly raised for its eggs and meat. Hens belong to the species Gallus gallus domesticus and are known for their distinctive clucking sounds. They typically have a plump body, a small head, and a beak suited for pecking at food on the ground. Hens are social animals that often live in flocks. They require a balanced diet that includes grains, seeds, and insects. In addition to laying eggs, hens play a role in agriculture by helping control pests and providing manure, which can be used as fertilizer for crops.