Ultrastructural characteristics of different subtypes of interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) remain unclear in birds however birds have significant economical and scientific notability.Our aim was describe and classify ICC in the chicken gut.Material and Methods:The ileum of normal adult three-yellow broiler chickens (n=10) were studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM).Results:ICC were spindle or stellate shaped with ramified cell processes.They had numerous mitochondria,abundant intermediate filaments,fusiform nuclei (oval or indented),with a dense band of peripheral heterochromatin and formed close contacts by true gap junctions with each other and with neighbouring smooth muscle cells (SMC).They were in close contact with enteric nerves,but true gap junctions were not found between them.A new subtype of ICC located in the lamina propria mucosae has been discovered.Some of the ICC showed typical features of SMC including a basal lamina,caveolae and dense bodies.Lacking intermediate filaments and caveolae distinguished them from the fibroblast-like cells (FLC) showing well-developed secretory organelles,including coated vesicles,a patchy basal lamina.Conclusion:The ultrastructural features and distribution of ICC in chicken intestine is similar to mammals.They may play similar key regulatory roles in gastrointestinal motility.The new subtype of ICC discovered in the lamina propria mucosae may play role in the regulation of secretion and absorption.