Chickens (Aves, Galliformes, Phasianidae, Gallus gallus) form the staple meat and egg supply of many communities. They are extremely gregarious. The laying hens are very particular about their brood of eggs. The chicks are seen in close proximity to their mother and both the cockerel and hens will vigorously guard them against any marauding predators or threats. The cockerel has a very sharp beak and powerful lacerating dew claws. Free-range chickens produce a much healthier meat and nutritional quality of egg. They are devoid of added growth chemicals, colorants and steroids. They are also less fatty as they are not housed continuously in cages where they sleep, eat and are removed for slaughter. Free-range chickens enjoy doing what birds do by chasing insects, digging up the soil for worms, beetles and ants, and running around. They are also good alarm callers and will loudly squawk at the sight of any approaching danger. The cockerels provide the dawn call and are always eager to run towards offered food.