| There are many breeds of chickens to populate your Henspa. Here are some
general facts to guide you in selecting the breed that will best suit you. |
| Araucanas |
Background
|
The Araucanas, also known as the
Easter egg chickens, are favorites because of their colored eggs. Araucunas were
discovered around 1880 being raised by the Araucana Indians in Chile, South America.
|
| Weight |
Light to Heavy |
| Color |
Feather colors vary widely. They
may be Buff (yellow), white, black, red, cinnamon, blue or any combination of these
colors. No two should look alike. Many have "puffs" of feathers around their
head. |
| Egg Color |
Their egg shells will be pale
blue, deep blue, green, pink or olive drab. |
| Egg Size |
Small to Jumbo |
| Age to Lay |
22 - 26 weeks |
| Buff Orphington |
Background
|
Buff Orphintons are a popular
dual-purpose breed. They are great for both meat and egg production. The Buffs are
excellent foragers, and they lay exceptionally well in the severe cold in the Northeren
states. |
| Weight |
Heavy: Pullets 7 lb, Cockerals 10
lb. |
| Color |
Golden buff (yellow) color evenly
shaded throughout. Skin color is white. |
| Egg Color |
Light to dark brown |
| Egg Size |
Large to Jumbo |
| Age to Lay |
|
| Silver Laced Wyandottes |
Background
|
Beautiful dual-purpose breed, for
both eggs and meat. Also a gentle bird, great for small backyard flocks. |
| Weight |
Medium: Pullets 6 lb, Cockerels 8
lb. |
| Color |
Silvery-white plumage with black
lacing around the edges. Yellow skin. |
| Egg Color |
Brown |
| Egg Size |
Standard to large |
| Age to Lay |
|
| Rhode Island Red |
Background
|
These vigerous, active birds are
dependable egg layers. Commercial egg producers use the Rhode Island Red for brown egg
production. |
| Weight |
Medium to Heavy |
| Color |
Dark red plumage |
| Egg Color |
Brown eggs |
| Egg Size |
Large to jumbo |
| Age to Lay |
6 months |
Stay tuned for more breeds! |
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