7 of the Noisiest Chicken Breeds
If you’re dreaming of a quiet little backyard flock, some breeds will make that way harder than it needs to be. Certain chickens have a lot to say—and they say it loudly, all day long. Whether they’re laying, alerting, or bored, some breeds are just naturally more vocal. That doesn’t mean they’re bad birds, but it’s something to think about if you’ve got close neighbors or noise restrictions.
These are the breeds known for making themselves heard.
Leghorn
Leghorns are active, flighty, and definitely not quiet. They’re constant chatterboxes, especially if they feel cooped up or aren’t getting enough stimulation.
You’ll hear them calling during egg-laying, when they see something unusual, or even when nothing’s happening at all. They’re productive and hardy, but you won’t get peace and quiet with Leghorns in the yard.
Rhode Island Red
This breed is known for being tough and independent—and that comes with a loud mouth. Rhode Island Reds are assertive and don’t mind voicing their opinions.
They’re great layers and usually easy to care for, but they can be noisy in a way that neighbors will notice. Hens especially love to make a scene after laying, and they aren’t shy about vocalizing if they’re irritated or bored.
Polish
Polish chickens look flashy with their head crests, and their personalities are just as noticeable. They tend to be nervous and jumpy, which means lots of noise when something spooks them.
Their high-strung nature makes them one of the more dramatic breeds. Even a squirrel can set them off, and they’ll let the whole neighborhood know something happened.
Hamburg
Hamburgs are small, energetic, and constantly moving—which usually means they’re constantly vocalizing too. These birds are known for being alert and reactive.
If you’ve got a busy yard, they’ll respond to every change, visitor, or loud noise with a chorus of calls. They’re good foragers and handle heat well, but they’re not ideal if you need a low-key flock.
Ancona
Anconas are similar to Leghorns in both build and behavior. They’re flighty, curious, and always ready to sound the alarm. These birds tend to be more vocal than you’d expect.
They don’t always love being handled, and they’ll squawk to let you know. Between the egg songs, warnings, and general clucking, Anconas are better suited for folks who don’t mind a lively coop.
Fayoumi
Originating from Egypt, Fayoumis are hardy birds with a lot of energy—and they’re not afraid to make noise about it. They’re fast, alert, and loud when something’s off.
Fayoumis are one of the more vocal breeds when it comes to predator alerts. They’re constantly on high alert and will sound the alarm over anything from a hawk to a curious cat.
Minorcas
Minorca chickens are known for their large size and big personalities. They’re not the loudest breed on this list, but they definitely hold their own when they’ve got something to say.
They tend to be alert and reactive, which means their vocalizations pick up when anything disrupts their environment. If you want a quiet flock, they probably won’t be your best pick.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
