Ayam Ketawa
A rare Indonesian heritage breed celebrated for its unique laughing crow
8/22/20252 min read
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🐓 Ayam Ketawa: Indonesia’s “Laughing Chicken”
Known for its unique, human-like crow, the Ayam Ketawa — or “laughing chicken” — is one of the most fascinating breeds in the world. Originating in South Sulawesi, Indonesia, this rare bird isn’t kept for eggs or meat but for the unusual sound of its crow. Once a status symbol of royalty, today the Ayam Ketawa is celebrated in crowing competitions and remains a living symbol of courage and prestige.
📜 A Brief History
The Ayam Ketawa comes from the Sidenreng Rappang region of South Sulawesi, Indonesia. The breed was originally kept by the Buginese royal family, who prized the birds for their long, clear, and melodic crows that resemble human laughter.
After the fall of the monarchy, the Ayam Ketawa became more widely available, but it is still considered a symbol of heroism, courage, and social status in Indonesia.
Today, roosters are entered in crowing contests, competing for the most “perfect laugh” in events such as the Governor of Sulawesi Cup.
📌 Breed Snapshot
Status: Rare, cultural breed
Use: Ornamental, crowing competitions
Egg Production: Limited, hens lay white to light brown eggs
Egg Size & Color: Medium; white to light brown
Weight: Roosters 4.4–6.6 lbs (2–3 kg); Hens 2.2–4.4 lbs (1–2 kg)
Temperament: Active, spirited, status breed
Characteristics: Distinctive crow resembling laughter; cultural significance
🐓 Why Choose an Ayam Ketawa?
Unique Vocalization
The crow of the Ayam Ketawa rooster is its defining feature — a series of long, clear notes that sound like laughter. No two crows are exactly alike, and breeders classify roosters into categories such as:
Dangdut – Slow, rhythmic crow
Gretek – Fast, staccato crow
Disco – A lively, variable crow
Cultural Symbol
In Indonesia, these birds are prized as symbols of courage and prestige, carrying forward centuries of tradition.
Competition Breed
Ayam Ketawa roosters compete in organized crowing contests, with winners celebrated for the clarity, rhythm, and duration of their “laugh.”
🛠️ Care Considerations
Not a Utility Breed – Egg and meat production are minimal. These birds are kept almost exclusively for ornamental and cultural value.
Noise Factor – The crow is unusual and frequent, so they are not suitable for quiet neighborhoods.
Space & Safety – Like other heritage chickens, they need secure housing and protection from predators.
Climate – Originating in tropical Indonesia, Ayam Ketawas prefer warmer conditions and may need shelter in cold climates.
🧬 Appearance at a Glance
Size
Roosters: 4.4–6.6 lbs
Hens: 2.2–4.4 lbs
Comb
Variable comb types (can differ between strains)
Eggs
White to light brown, moderate in size
Other Notes
Best known for their long, laughing crow
Active, spirited, ornamental breed
🧡 Heritage and Conservation
The Ayam Ketawa remains a rare breed, largely maintained by cultural enthusiasts and breeders in Indonesia. Its preservation is tied to its cultural importance, rather than utility.
🧠 Final Thoughts
The Ayam Ketawa is unlike any other chicken. With a crow that sounds like human laughter, it captures attention and admiration wherever it is heard. While not suited for production, these “laughing chickens” remain treasured for their cultural heritage, competitive value, and unique charm.
Did You Know?
In the Buginese language, the breed is also called Manu’ Gaga’, or simply Gaga’, meaning “stammering chicken.”
Breeders classify birds based on the rhythm of their crows, much like musical genres.
Owning an Ayam Ketawa was once a privilege reserved only for royalty.