There are hundreds of chicken breeds in existence. Domesticated for thousands of years, distinguishable breeds of chicken have been present since the combined factors of geographical isolation and selection for desired characteristics created regional types with distinct physical and behavioral traits passed on to their offspring. The physical traits used to distinguish chicken breeds are size, plumage color, comb type, skin color, number of toes, amount of feathering, egg color, and place of origin. They are also roughly divided by primary use, whether for eggs, meat, or ornamental purposes, and with some considered to be dual-purpose. In the 21st century, chickens are frequently bred according to predetermined breed standards set down by governing organizations. The first of such standards was the British Poultry Standard, which is still in publication today. Other standards include the Standard of Perfection, the Australian Poultry Standard, and the standard of the American Bantam Association, which deals exclusively with bantam fowl. Only some of the known breeds are included in these publications, and only those breeds are eligible to be shown competitively. There are additionally a few hybrid strains which are common in the poultry world, especially in large poultry farms. These types are first generation crosses of true breeds. Hybrids do not reliably pass on their features to their offspring, but are highly valued for their producing abilities. By place of origin Afghanistan Albania Australia Austria Belgium Brazil Bulgaria Canada Chile Araucana China Croatia Hrvatica (Croatian Hen, Kokoš Hrvatica) Cuba Cubalaya Cyprus Cypriot chicken Czech Republic Egypt Finland France Germany Large breeds Bantams Greece Iceland Icelandic chicken India Indonesia Iran Black Azerbaijan Marandi Italy Japan Korea Jangmigye Kosovo Kosova Long-crowing Malaysia Kampung Malay Serama Mariana Islands Saipan Jungle Fowl Myanmar Burmese Pama Game Netherlands Norway Norwegian Jærhøne Pakistan Philippines Banaba Bolinao Camarines Darag Paraoakan or Parawakan Poland Polbar Zielononóżka Kuropatwiana (Green-legged Partridge) Polish chicken Portugal Romania Transylvanian Naked-neck Russia Serbia Slovakia Oravka Slovenia South Africa Spain Sweden Switzerland Taiwan Taiwanese Game Thailand Gai Chon Gai Puen Muang Pradu Hang Dum or Pradu Hang Dam Chiangmai Thai Game Turkey Ukraine Poltava United Kingdom United States of America Vietnam By primary use All chickens lay eggs, have edible meat, and possess a unique appearance. However, distinct breeds are the result of selective breeding to emphasize certain traits. Any breed may be used for general agricultural purposes, and all breeds are shown to some degree. But each chicken