Henderson's
Handy-Dandy Chicken Chart

An Alphabetical List of More than 60 Chicken Breeds
With Comparative Information

'We thought it was a bog-standard chicken until it started breathing fire.' -- JK Rowling, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, chapter 7

A | B | C | D | F | H | J | L | M | N | P | R | S | W

We have had personal experience with only a couple dozen of the breeds and varieties on this list. The birds from our flock, past or present, are those listed with illustrations and "Our Birds" comments.

Chicken Resources: Information on Breeds, Advice for Small Flock Owners, and more.

Why another chicken page?

NOTES: This page loads slowly with dial-up connections (Sorry).
If the table does not fit on your screen, expand page to full screen and decrease font size.
Sage Hen Farm is not a hatchery. The information is provided for educational purposes only. We do not sell chicks or hatching eggs.

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Ameraucana
Ameraucana
portrait FS PB club


Black, Blue, Blue-wheaten, Brown-red, Buff, Silver, Wheaten, & White


Easter Eggers are common. Standard Ameraucanas are rare.
88%/8% (EEs/pure)
5.5 lb/2.5 kg

APA (1984):
Large
: All Other Bantam: All Other Clean Legged
PC: Not recognized


Layer
Fancy:
Muffed, Bearded

South American. May or may not be genetically related to the Araucana. In pre-Columbian Chile, there are several different blue egg-laying chicken breeds, none called Araucana. Standardized & accepted into APA in 1984. Most hatcheries, however, sell Easter Egg chickens with mixed breeding that may lay blue, green (or other colored) eggs, but do not conform to standard.

fair

various
shades
of blue
&
blue-
green


pea
white with slate colored shanks
red
occasional brooder (none of ours has)
very cold hardy
moderately early maturing

well adaptable to confinement or free range; mostly calm, non-aggressive

Our Birds [mostly mongrel Easter Eggers]: a few have been among the most curious & most easily handled birds we have owned. Others have been calm, non-aggressive, but stand-offish. We wouldn't have a flock without them.

The chipmunky blue-egger.

medium

Ancona
portrait FS OK Om AR PP box PB

Black mottled, only


Rather rare & in decline.
40%
Standard:
4.5 lb/2 kg
Bantam:
1.5 lb/0.7 kg

APA (1898):
Large: Mediterranean Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Soft Feather Light


  Layer

Developed in Italy in mid-19th century probably from leghorns sporting mottled feathers. Once rivaled the Leghorn in Europe, but never caught on in North America.

very good
white to
light cream

single, also rose
yellow skin & shanks
white
non-setter
generally hardy;
very cold hardy except for combs
early maturing hens
prefers free range; nervous & restless in confinement; flyer; active, flighty, marked wildness, avoids human contact

Much like a leghorn, with black mottling.

small

Blue Andalusian
Andalusian
portrait FS OK PP box GO PB

Blue


Still popular as a show bird.
32%
Standard:
5.5 lb/2.4 kg
Bantam:
1.75 lb/0.8 kg

APA (1874):
Large: Mediterranean Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Light, Rare
hackel feathers prized for fly tying
Layer
Fancy:
Blue feathered

Developed in Spain & England in mid-19th century. Studied by Gregor Mendel in experiments in genetics & heredity.
Blue color does not breed true. Black & Splash (White) are necessary for breeding, but are not permitted to be shown.

good
chalk to creamy white

single
white skin,
slate blue shanks
white
mostly a non-setter
heat tolerant; combs subject to frostbite; ours were not robust, but that may not be representative of the breed.
early maturing

semi-adaptable to confinement, but prefers free range; active, flighty, noisy, avoids human contact

Our Birds: ours, received as adults, never fit in well with the rest of the flock & were nervous all the time. Our one cock crowed louder than any other we've ever had. We've been hesitant to try them again, but we might, since they are such beautiful birds.

The original blue.

large

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Appenzeller or Appenzell
FS OKb OKs Om PP box GOb GOs

Spitzhauben (Pointed Hood)
&
Barthuhner (Bearded)


Spitzhauben available but Barthuhner practically unknown
8%/0% (sptz/brthr)
4 lb/1.8 kg

APA: Not recognized
PC: Soft Feather Light


Layer
Fancy:
Crested
or Bearded

Developed in Switzerland centuries ago. The name is thought to derive from the lace bonnets of the Appenzeller region.

good
white

horn, V-shaped, duplex
white skin,
blue shanks
blueish white
can be broody
very cold hardy,
except may have problems
with freezing crest feathers
early maturing
not very tolerant of close confinement; flyer; active, flighty

The national breed of Switzerland.

medium

Araucana or Rumpless Araucana
FS OK PP box GO PB club


Black, White, Black Breasted Red, Blue, Buff, Silver


Purebreds are very rare.
0%
Standard:
5 lb/2.2 kg
Bantam:
1.4 lb/0.65 kg

APA (1976):
Large
: All Other Bantam: All Other Clean Legged
PC: Light, Rare


Layer
Fancy:
Rumpless
Ear Tufts

Introduced from Chile in 1921, from one of several different blue egg-laying chicken breeds, none called Araucana there. Likely that some "mongrelization" occurred before standardization. Truest bred carry a "lethal gene" which is also connected to the tufting characteristic. Standards differ from country to country.

fair

blue
only

pea
yellow skin, willow shanks
red
good, or frequent, brooder
cold hardy
moderately early maturing
well adaptable to confinement or free range; calm, non-aggressive

The rumpless, tufted blue-egger.

small

Aseel or Asil
portrait FS AR Om PP box GO PB

Black, White, Duckwing, Red Spangled, Pyle, others


Very rare.
4%
Standard:
5 lb/2.2 kg
Bantam:
2 lb/0.9 kg

APA:
Large
: All Other
PC: Hard Feather Heavy


Game

Developed in India more than 2000 years ago, perhaps even 3500 years ago. Thought to be the breed from which the Cornish was primarily developed.

fair

lightly
tinted
small pea
yellow skin & shanks
red
can be broody,
protective mothers
robust; cold hardy;
very hardy in high heat
slow to mature
bears confinement better than most other game breeds; extremely fierce & pugnacious, but docile & easily handled when away from other cocks

Ancient Indian athlete.

small

Australorp or
Black Australorp
portrait FS OK Om PP AR box GO

Black, only (standard); also blue & white


Common
88%
Standard:
6.5 lb/2.9 kg
Bantam:
2 lb/0.9 kg

APA (1929):
Large
: English Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Soft Feather Heavy


Dual Purpose

Developed in 20th century in Australia, primarily from the Orpington. Gained notoriety when one hen in the 1920s laid a record 364 eggs in 365 days. That performance has never been matched by subsequent Australorps.

very good

brown

medium
single

white skin,
dark shanks


red
great brooder (or annoyingly too frequent brooder); good mother
very hardy; very cold hardy
early maturing
well adaptable to confinement or free range; calm, docile; more easily handled

The egg-laying champion table bird from Oz

medium

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Barnevelder
Barnevelder
portrait FS OK Om PP box GO

Double-laced, Blue-laced, White, Black, others


Little known until recently.
4%
Standard:
6-7 lb/2.7-3.2 kg
Bantam:
2.25 lb/1.0 kg

APA (2001):
Large
: Continental
PC: Soft Feather Heavy


Dual Purpose

Developed in late 19th century and early 20th century in Holland for dark egg laying. Developed from an older local variety that may date as early as the 12th century. In recent history, some strains have been bred for show and others for the darkness of their eggs.

good
very dark reddish brown,
with matte finish
single
yellow skin &
shanks
red
mixed reports on
setting & brooding
less cold hardy;
good in damp conditions
slow to mature,
& some chicks can be easily bullied

well adaptable to confinement or free range; calm, docile

Our Birds: ours fit in well with the flock, but shied away with human contact. Ours laid reddish brown eggs, but most were not especially dark. None currently in our flock, we will likely try them again.

Famous for large dark brown eggs.

large

Belgian D'Anver, or Antwerp Belgian, Barbu d'Anvers
portrait FS AR PP box

14 recognized, including Quail, Porcelain, Black, Blue, Buff, Cuckoo, Mille Fleur, White, Mottled


Uncommon
33%
True bantam:
1.3 lb/0.6 kg

APA (1949):
Bantam: Rose Comb Clean Legged
PC: True Bantam


Bantam
Bearded

Developed in Anver region of Belgium many decades ago. Rumpless versions are called De Grubbe. Breed is often referred to simply as the Quail bantam, after the most popular variety.

fair

creamy
white

rose
white skin, dark shanks
white
good, or frequent, brooder
robust
chicks difficult to rear
active, flyer; hens calm, cocks can be aggressive

The bearded bantam.

tiny

Belgian D'Uccle or Barbu d'Uccle
portrait FS AR PP box club

Mille Fleur, Porcelain, Black, Buff, White, Blue Mottled, Splash, Golden Neck, others


One of the most popular bantams
93%
True bantam:
1.3 lb/0.55 kg

APA (1914):
Bantam: Feather Legged
PC: True Bantam / Rare


Bantam
Bearded
Feather Footed

First bred in Uccle (Belgium) before 1900 by Michel Van Gelder. Breed is often referred to simply as Mille Fleur, the most popular variety.

fair

creamy
white

small single with large spikes


white skin & shanks
white
great brooder (or annoyingly too frequent brooder)
hardy;
because of fancy feathering,
not suited for foul weather
very slow to mature
for full coloring
tolerates confinement; fliers; calm, cocks less aggressive than other banties

The bearded, booted bantam

tiny

Booted or Sabelpoot
FS PP box club

Black, Blue, Buff, Mille Fleur, Porcelain, White, Mottled, others


Very rare
0%
True bantam:
1.4 lb/0.65 kg

APA:
Bantam
: Feather Legged
PC: True Bantam, Rare


Bantam
Feather Footed

One of the more ancient bantams; developed in the Netherlands.

poor

creamy
white

single
white skin & shanks
bright red
great brooder (or annoyingly too frequent brooder)
hardy

some reports indicate
chicks difficult to rear

tolerates confinement; fliers; hens calm, cocks can be aggressive

The booted, unbearded bantam

tiny

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Light Brahma
Brahma
portrait FS OK Om AR PP box GO PB club

Light, Dark, Buff


Less common.
48%/20% (light/all other)
Standard:
9 lb/4.1 kg
Bantam:
2.6 lb/1.2 kg

APA (1874):
Large
:Asiatic Bantam: Feather Legged
PC: Soft feather Heavy


feathers prized for fly tying
Dual Purpose
[formerly Meat]
Fancy:
Feather Footed, outside only

Introduced from China in mid-19th century. The largest breed at the time. Before the name Brahma was settled on, they were also called Chittagongs, Shanghais (as were the Cochins), and Brahmapootras.

good

brown

pea
yellow skin &
shanks
red
good, or frequent, brooder
robust; very hardy in heat & cold
slow to mature

adaptable to confinement or free range; mostly gentle; more easily handled.

Our Birds: some hens were among the gentlest birds we've owned; one rooster became too aggressive toward humans and other chickens in his older age. Some hens ate a lot, got fat, and never laid that many eggs, and we do not currently have any in our flock.

Large and regal.

medium

Buckeye
Buckeye
FS OK AL

Nut brown, only


Very rare.
12%
6.5 lb/2.9 kg

APA (1904):
Large: American
PC: Not recognized


Dual Purpose

Developed by Mrs. Nettie Metcalf of Warren, Ohio, in late 19th century. Never widely popular.

 

varies
poor to fair
to
good

brown


pea
white skin & blue/gray
shanks
red
can be broody
very cold hardy
moderately slow maturing

adaptable to confinement, very adaptable to free range; calm, docile; can be curious; more easily handled.

Our Birds: some have been among the "friendliest." Perhaps because of docileness, none have risen high in the pecking order. Our first Buckeye hens were low producers, but more recent hens have been much better.

Buckeye brown bird from the Buckeye state.

medium

Buttercup or Sicilian Buttercup
portrait FS OK Om PP box PB

Golden, only


Rare, even as a show bird
36%
5 lb/2.3 kg

APA (1918):
Large: Mediterranean
PC: Light, Rare


Layer
Fancy:
Large buttercup comb

Developed in Sicily, in mid-19th century.

good
white
buttercup
yellow skin &
shanks
white
non-setter
heat tolerant; combs subject to frostbite
early maturing,
but full comb takes longer
does not do well in close confinement; very fidgety; active, flighty, wild even for a Mediterrean breed; avoids human contact

Known for its comb.

small

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Golden Campine
Campine

portrait FS OK PP box RB

Golden, Silver


Uncommon.
40%/32% (golden/silver)
5 lb/2.2 kg

APA (1914):
Large
: Continental Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Soft feather Light


Layer
Fancy: Some males are hen-feathered

May have ancient ancestry, but refined & further developed in Belgium in the 19th century. Braekel is a closely related European breed.

good
white

large single
white skin,
blue shanks
white
non-setter
hardy; comb subject to frostbite
quick feathering
but late maturing

economical eater; semi-adaptable to confinement, but prefers free range; flyer; alert, lively; can be curious; some are rather wild, others can be quite tolerant of humans

Our Birds: one hen free ranges even to lay eggs -- never in a standard nesting area. Our cock refused to be confined when we tried to initate a breeding program. Some have been "friendly" enough to eat out of a hand or be a garden companion. Our favorites among the white egg layers.

Beautiful bird with unique pencilling.

medium

Catalana
FS OK box PB

Buff


Very rare.
8%
6 lb/2.7 kg

APA (1949):
Large
: Mediterranean Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Not recognized


Layer

Developed in Spain in late 19th century as a meat & egg bird.

very good

white to
light tint

single
yellow skin &
shanks
white
non-setter
very hardy in heat
early maturing
less tolerant of close confinement; active, vigorous, avoids human contact

The most popular breed of South America.

medium

Chantecler
FS OK box

White, Partridge


Extremely rare. Rare even in Canada.
8%
6.5 lb/2.9 kg

APA (1921):
Large: American Bantam: All Other Clean Legged
PC: Not recognized


Dual Purpose

Developed in Canada in early 20th century by Brother Wilfred as a good meat & egg bird that could stand the extreme cold.

good
brown

good winter layer

cushion
yellow skin &
shanks
red
frequent brooder; good mother
extremely cold hardy
early maturing

bears confinement well; calm, docile, although there are reports of skittishness.

Our Birds: our partridges have blended in so well they remained rather anonymous for a long time. One was a successful mother hen and returned to the flock only to go broody again immediately. We have two now and both have been broody much of their second year.

Canada's breed.

large

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Cochin
portrait FS OK Om AR PP box GO PB club

Buff, White, Black, & Partridge


Still popular as a show bird.
64%
Standard:
8.5 lb/3.8 kg
Bantam (aka Pekin):
1.3 lb/.6 kg

APA (1874):
Large
: Asiatic Bantam: Feather Legged
PC: Soft feather Heavy


Fancy:
Feather Footed, fully

Introduced from China in early 19th century. Originally known as the Shanghai (a name also used for the Brahma). The breed that launched interest in poultry shows. Pekins are recognized as a separate bantam breed in some countries, rather than as bantam Cochins.

poor to fair
tinted or
yellowy
brown

small single
yellow skin & shanks
red
excellent brooder (or exceedingly annoying as a too frequent brooder);
good mother;
often used as a foster mother
robust, cold hardy
slow to mature
well adaptable to confinement or free range; calm, docile; more easily handled

Big ball of fluff and feathers.

small

Cornish or Indian Game
FS OK Om AR PP box GO

White, Dark, White Laced, Red, Buff


Uncommon,
40%
Standard:
8 lb/3.6 kg
Bantam:
2.6 lb/1.2 kg

APA (1893):
Large: English Bantam: All Other Clean Legged
PC: Hard Feather Heavy


Meat
Game or Other

Developed in Cornwall in 19th century. Now principally used commercially for cross breeding purposes for Cornish X Rock.

poor

light
brown

pea
yellow skin & shanks
red
can be broody;
protective mother
cold hardy
moderately early maturing
easily contained; less active; very docile for a game bird, noisy, can be docile or aggressive

Famed meat bird, especially when crossed.

small

Crevecoeur
FS OK PP box

Black


Very rare.
16%
6.5 lb/3 kg

APA (1874):
Large
: Continental Bantam: All Other Clean Legged
PC: Heavy, Rare


Fancy:
Crested
Bearded & muffed

Developed in Normandy, perhaps before the 18th century.

poor to fair
white

horn, V-shaped, duplex
white skin,
dark shanks
red [hidden by feathers]
non-setter
because of fancy feathering,
not suited for foul weather;
may have problems with
freezing crest feathers
suited for close (and dry) confinement; active; can be aggressive

Is it beautiful and elegant, or just peculiar-looking?

medium

Cubalaya
FS AL OK GO

Black-Breasted Red, White, Black


Practically unknown outside the Caribbean until recently.
20%
4.5 lb/2 kg

APA (1939):
Large:All Other
PC: Not recognized


Game

Developed in Cuba in 19th century from Phillipine or Indonesian stock.

poor
white

pea
white skin & shanks
white
great, or very frequent, brooder
very hardy in heat
slow to mature
needs to be active; less tolerant of close confinement; aggressive, noisy

Cuba's fighting meat bird.

small

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Delaware
Delaware
portrait FS OK AL

White [Columbian]


Rare.
32%
6.5 lb/2.9 kg

APA (1952):
Large
: American Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Not recognized


Dual Purpose

Developed by George Ellis in 1940 in Delaware.

Unknown in most of the world.

very good

medium
to rich
brown

good winter layer

single
yellow skin &
shanks
red
can be broody
robust; hardy in heat & cold
early maturing

well adaptable to confinement or free range; calm, docile.

Our Birds: Where ours have stood out has been for decent productivity of very large eggs.

A broiler cross that became a breed.

large

Dominique
or Dominiker
portrait FS OK GO PP club

Barred only


Rare, but now has new interest.
52%
5 lb/2.2 kg

APA (1874):
Large
: American Bantam: Rose Comb Clean Legged
PC: Soft Feather
Heavy, Rare


feathers prized for fly tying
Dual Purpose

Developed in New England in early 19th century. Not distinguished from the Barred Rock until APA Standards were developed. Most modern Dominques may be traced to stock developed by A. Q. Carter after 1900.

good

brown

good winter layer

rose
yellow skin &
shanks
red
good. or frequent, brooder; good mother
robust; cold hardy
early maturing
well adaptable to confinement or free range; calm mostly, but more flighty than other dual purpose breeds

Claimant to title "America's first breed."

medium

Dorking
Dorking
FS OK Om AR PP box GO RB club

Silver Gray, White, Colored


Extremely rare.
16%/4% (silver/all other)
Standard:
6.5 lb/2.2 kg
Bantam:
1.0 lb/0.8 kg

APA (1874):
Large
: English Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Soft feather Heavy


Dual Purpose
Fancy:
Five-Toed
Short legs

Ancient; believed to have been introduced to England by Romans -- based primarily on a description by a Roman writer of a chicken with five toes.

fair to good

creamy
white to
light tint

rose & single
white skin &
shanks
red
great brooder (or annoyingly too frequent brooder);
good mother
less hardy in general,
but cold hardy
chicks delicate
& slow to mature

adaptable to confinement or free range; calm; docile; stately or awkward; fattens easily; more easily handled

Our Birds: first batch were quiet calm, but next generation included at least one very flighty hen. One hen has been particularly broody.

Short legged, very ancient, very English.

medium

Dutch
portrait FS Om PP box RF

11 recognized, including Light Brown, White, Black, Blue, Blue Light Brown, Silver


Rare.
0%
True bantam:
1.0 lb/0.45 kg

APA (1992):
Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: True Bantam


Bantam

Developed in the Netherlands, perhaps from Dutch East Indies stock. Introduced to North America after WWII, declined, reintroduced in the 70s & 80s.

poor to fair

light
tint

single
white skin & white or blue shanks
white
good, or frequent, brooder;
protective mother
hardy
slow to mature
tolerates confinement; fliers; active, lively, cocks have been compared to snapping turtles

The littlest bantam.

tiny

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Salmon Faverolle
Faverolles

portrait FS OK Om PP AR PP box club

Salmon, White


Once rare, but gaining popularity.
44%
Standard:
7.5 lb/3.4 kg
Bantam:
2.2 lb/1.0 kg

APA (1914):
Large
: Continental Bantam: Feather Legged
PC: Soft Feather Heavy


Dual Purpose
Fancy:
Bearded & muffed
Feather footed, outside only
Five-Toed

Developed in France in early 19th century.

very good

creamy
tint

good winter layer

small single
white skin &
shanks
red [hidden by feathers]
can be broody
cold hardy;
because of fancy feathering,
not suited for foul weather

early maturing

bears confinement well; alert; calm; very docile; genteel; prone to bullying by others

Our Birds: ours have not thrived well in the competition with mixed flock. Probably won't replace them when the last one is gone.

The French Poodle of chicken breeds.

medium

Fayoumi or
Egyptian Fayoumi
FS PP

Gold & silver penciled


Still rare.
36%
3.5 lb/1.6 kg

APA: Not recognized
PC: Soft feather Light


Layer

Ancient Egyptian origins; only recently spread to the rest of the world.

very good

off-white
to light tint

single
white skin,
dark shanks
white
non-setter
very hardy; excellent hot weather bird
quick feathering
& very early maturing
very economical eater; does not like containment; lively; flighty, known for wildness

Precocious scavenger and escape artist.

small

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Silver Spangled Hamburg
Hamburg or Hamburgh
portrait FS OK AR PP box GO

Silver-Spangled, Golden-Spangled, Golden-Penciled, Silver-Penciled, White, Black


Less common.
56%/24% (slvr-spng/all other)
Standard:
4 lb/1.8 kg
Bantam:
1.5 lb/0.7 kg

APA (1874):
Large
: Continental Bantam: Rose Comb Clean Legged
PC: Soft Feather Light


Layer

Developed in Holland (not Germany) before 1700; may be ancient. Historical names include Pheasants, Moonies, Crescents, Corals & Everlayers

very good
low-gloss
white

rose
white skin, slate blue shanks
white
non-setter (or very rarely broody)
hardy; cold hardy
very early maturing

very economical eater; likes wide range; less tolerant of close confinement; high flyer; very flighty; spritely, active; mostly avoids human contact

Our Birds: ours have been very economical eaters, and in their prime laid well; even though smaller than most other hens, they have held their own in a mixed flock. We have one hen left that was eight years old as of spring 2009. Because small white eggs are not especially popular with most customers, we probably won't be getting more.

The spritely, little "everyday layer."

small

Holland or American Holland
FS OK AL

White & Barred


Rare.
12%
6.5 lb/2.9 kg

APA (1949):
Large
: American Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Not recognized


Dual Purpose

Established in 1949 as an improved, yellow skinned, heavy breed with white eggs.

Unknown in Holland & most of the rest of world.

good
white

single
yellow skin &
shanks
red
can be broody
cold hardy
moderately slow maturing
well adaptable to confinement or free range; calm, good tempered

The calm white-egger.

medium

Houdan
portrait FS OK Om PP box

White, Mottled


Uncommon.
32%
Standard:
6-7 lb/2.7-3.2 kg
Bantam:
1.75 lb/0.8 kg

APA (1874):
Large: Continental Bantam: All Other Clean Legged
PC: Heavy, Rare


Dual Purpose
Fancy:
Crested
Bearded
Five-Toed

Developed in France before 1700, possibly as a cross between Polish and Dorking or related breeds.

fair
white

leaf (or V)
white skin,
darker shanks
red [hidden by feathers]
can be broody
because of fancy feathering,
not suited for foul weather;
may have problems with
freezing crest feathers
early maturing
bears confinement well; active; docile; more easily handled

The crested French bird with big eyes.

small to medium

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Japanese or Chabo (and still called Japs in some parts of the world)
FS AR Om PP box club

Black, White, Black Tailed, Birchen, Mottled, others


Popular
86%
True bantam:
1.3 lb/0.6 kg

APA (1874):
Bantam
: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: True Bantam


Bantam
Short legs

Developed in Japan as early as the 7th century perhaps from Indo-Chinese stock. First introduced to Europe in 1860. Truest bred carry a "lethal gene" which is also connected to the shortened leg characteristic.

poor

creamy
white

large single
white skin & shanks
bright red
excellent brooder (or annoyingly too frequent brooder); protective mother
because of short legs
& fancy feathering,
not suited for foul weather
slow to mature
tolerates confinement; some are fliers; generally docile, cocks can be aggressive

The short-legged, low-built, squirrel-tailed bantam.

tiny

Java
FS OK AL

Black, Mottled


Extremely, perhaps critically rare.
16%
7.5 lb/3.4 kg

APA (1874):
Large: American Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Not recognized


Dual Purpose

Developed in U.S. after being introduced from Java in 1835.

fair

brown

single
yellow skin,
dark shanks
red
good, or frequent, brooder
cold hardy
very slow maturing
well adaptable to confinement or free range; calm

Old breed, but endangered.

medium

Jersey Black Giant
Jersey Giant
portrait FS OK Om PP box GO

Black, White


Uncommon. Was in decline, but now seems to be holding its own.
56%/28% (black/all other)
10 lb/4.6 kg

APA (1922):
Large
: American Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Heavy, Rare


Dual Purpose
[formerly Meat]

Developed in New Jersey in 1870s. Never commercially popular, but bird of choice for capons

fair to good

brown

good winter layer

small
single
yellow skin,
dark shanks
red
occasional brooder;
protective mother
robust; very cold hardy
very slow to mature

because of size, not an economical eater; adaptable to confinement or free range; calm, gentle, more easily handled.

Our Birds: never reached giant-sized porportions; one gentle hen was among the easiest to pick up. We don't currently have any but may try them again.

The chicken world's largest breed.

medium to large

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

La Fleche
FS OK Om PP box GO

Black, Blue, White, & Cuckoo


Very rare.
12%


5.5 lb/2.5 kg

APA (1874):
Large: Continental Bantam: All Other Clean Legged
PC: Heavy, Rare


Dual Purpose
Fancy:
Horns for a comb

Dates back to France before 1660.

 

good
tinted
white

horn, V-shaped, duplex
white skin,
dark shanks
white
non-setter
hardy
early maturing
well adaptable to confinement or free range; active, flighty, avoids human contact

The devil bird.

large

Lakenvelder

Lakenvelder
FS OK Om PP box GO

Black/white/black pattern.


Rare.
52%/20% (silver/gold)
4 lb/1.8 kg

APA (1939):
Large: Continental Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Soft feather Light


Layer

Developed in Germany in early 19th century. Golden Lakenvelders are not standard. Vorwerk is a bantam with the black/gold/black pattern.

good

white to
light tint

single
white skin,
dark shanks
white
non-setter
hardy
early maturing

well adaptable to confinement or free range; flyer; flighty, avoids human contact.

Our Birds: never sociable, but not easily startled, either. If we get more, it will be because they are handsome birds.

Shadow on a sheet.

small to medium

Lamona
portrait FS OK

White


Extinct or verging on extinction.
0%
6.5 lb/2.9 kg

APA (1933):
Large: American Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Not recognized


Dual Purpose

Developed by Harry Lamon in 1912 specifically to be a yellow skinned heavy breed with white eggs.

fair
white

single
yellow skin &
shanks
red

The rare, possibly extinct, yellow-skinned, red-ear-lobed, white-egg-laying table bird.

medium

Black Langshan
Langshan
FS OK box GO PB

Black, White, & Blue.


Uncommon.
32%/16% (black/all other)
7.5 lb/3.4 kg

APA (1883):
Large: Asiatic Bantam: Feather Legged
PC: Soft feather Heavy


Dual Purpose
[formerly Meat]
Fancy:
Feather Footed, outside only (some varieties are clean footed)

Introduced from China in mid-19th century. Major Croad introduced them to England & gave his name to an early variety of Langshans. In Europe & elsewhere, distinctions are made between Croad & Modern Langshans.

good

brown
[Croad
Langshans
once lay very
dark
brown]

single
greyish white skin,
dark shanks
red
can be broody
very hardy; cold hardy
slow to mature

well adaptable to confinement or free range; active for their size; graceful; not as calm or docile as other large breeds

Our Birds: One rooster was very personable and had a lovely, deep crowing voice. We liked him better than the hens who have not stood out either in egg-laying nor personality.

The long-legged, high-tailed, and feather-footed regal bird.

medium

White Leghorn
Leghorn
portrait FS OK Om AR PP box GO PB RF club

Dark Brown, Light Brown, White, Buff, Black, Silver, Red, Black-Tailed Red, Columbian


Common.
84%/80%/32% white/brown/all other
Standard:
4.5 lb/2 kg
Bantam:
1.75 lb/0.8 kg

APA (1874):
Large
: Mediterranean Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Soft Feather Light


feathers prized for fly tying
Layer

Ancient, but greatly developed in 19th & 20th centuries. Honored by the Romans, and the white variety was reportedly developed for use in ceremony and foretelling the future. One of the most popular birds around the globe.

prolific+
pearl
white
(non-white feathered varieties are less prolific.)

large
single;
also rose
yellow skin &
shanks
white
non-setter (or very rarely broody)
hardy; heat tolerant (esc. white variety); combs subject to frostbite
very early maturing

economical eater; better adaptable to confinement then some Mediterranean; enjoys free range; flyer; flighty; spritely, noisy, nervous, usually avoids human contact.

Our Birds: Flighty does describe them pretty well, but they aren't without personality. One of our first white Leghorns would lead the pack in greeting us when we came home.

The ultimate egg machine.

medium to large
[commercial whites' are especially large]

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Malay
FS OK PP GO PB

Black Breasted Red, only


Very rare
4%
7 lb/3.2 kg

APA (1883):
Large: All Other Bantam: All Other Clean Legged
PC: Hard Feather, Rare


Game

An ancient breed, introduced from Malay

poor

light tint
or brown

strawberry
yellow skin & shanks
rich r-ed
can be broody
hardy, very hardy in heat
very slow to mature
needs to be active; less tolerant of close confinement; more placid than most game birds

A cruel looking giant on long legs.

medium

Cuckoo Marans

Marans
FS Om PP box GO RF

Dark, Cuckoo, others


Once little known, but now becoming trendy.
4%
Standard:
7 lb/3.2 kg
Bantam:
2.2 lb/1.0 kg

APA: Not recognized
PC: Soft Feather Heavy


Layer
Feather or Clean Footed,depending on country standard or strain

Developed in France in early 20th century. Since French and English standards are different, and both have been imported into North America, standardization in the United States may not occur any time soon.

good

dark
chocolate
brown

single
white skin &
shanks
red
great brooder (or annoyingly too frequent brooder) in some strains
some strains less hardy

varies widely by individual and strain.

Our Birds: Although "cuckoo" was meant to describe feather pattern, we thought it fit the personality as well. Not exactly wild, some have been very active and somewhat difficult to manage. Others have been quite calm. None of ours have laid especially dark brown eggs.

Known for one thing -- chocolate colored eggs.

medium to large

Minorca
portrait FS OK AR PP box GO PB

Black, White, Buff


Rare to uncommon.
44%/28% (black/all other)
Standard:
7 lb/3.2 kg
Bantam:
1.75 lb/0.8 kg

APA (1888):
Large: Mediterranean Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Soft Feather Light


feathers prized for fly tying
Layer

Developed in Spain (and Minorca?) Once known as the Red-faced Black Spanish.

very good
white

single & rose
white skin,
dark shanks
white
non-setter
excellent hot weather bird;
combs subject to frostbite
early maturing
adaptable to confinement, but prefers free range; restlessly active, flighty, avoids human contact

Largest Mediterranean, extra large eggs.

large

Modern Game or Modern English Game
FS OK AR PP box GO

Black-Breasted Red, Silver Duckwing, Red Pyle, White, Black, many others


Uncommon
16%
Standard:
4.5 lb/2 kg
Bantam:
1.2 lb/0.55 kg

APA (1874):
Large
: All Other Bantam: Game
PC: Hard Feather


feathers prized for fly tying
Game

Developed in England in 19th century for exhibibiton, not for cockfighting.

poor

white to light tint

large single (often dubbed)
yellow skin & shanks
red
can be broody;
protective mother
hardy in heat & cold;
some subject to health problems
slow to mature
needs to be active; less tolerant of close confinement; aggressive, noisy

The game bird with style and carriage.

small

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Naked Neck or Transylvanian Naked Neck or Turken
portrait FS OK Om PP box GO

Black, White, Red, other


Uncommon.
44%
Standard:
6 lb/2.7 kg
Bantam:
1.5 lb/0.7 kg

APA (1965):
Large: All Other Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Heavy, Rare


Fancy:
Bare neck

Developed near Transylvania in early 18th century.

fair

creamy
light
brown

single
yellow skin &
shanks
red
can be broody;
good mother
hardy in cold;
does well in high heat
because of fewer feathers,
but can get sunburned
slow to mature
well adaptable to confinement or free range; active; calm, docile; more easily handled

No, it's not a turkey / chicken cross.

medium to large

New Hampshire Red
New Hampshire or New Hampshire Red
portrait FS OK Om PPbox GO

Light brownish red, only


Fairly common
72%
Standard:
6.5 lb/2.9 kg
Bantam:
1.9 lb/0.85 kg

APA (1935):
Large
: American Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Heavy, Rare


feathers prized for fly tying
Dual Purpose

Developed in New Hamphire from the Rhode Island Red in early 20th century.

very good

light to
medium
dark brown

good winter layer

large
single
yellow skin &
shanks
red
good, or occasional to frequent, brooder; good mother
robust; hardy in heat & cold;
combs subject to frostbite
very early maturing

well adaptable to confinement or free range; calm; can be docile or aggressive; can be curious

Our Birds: a few have been among our favorites. Addled Adelaide was our first hen to raise a brood of chicks. She earned her name for appearing to be scatter-brained at times as a pullet, but when older could almost seem affectionate -- maybe she was just very hungry. Several enjoyed keeping close to us while gardening. Some have been aggressive in maintaining their position in the pecking order.

 

New Hampshire's answer to Rhode Island.

large

Old English Game
FS OK Om AR PP box GO

Black-Breasted Red, Silver Duckwing, Red Pyle, White, Black, many others


Uncommon
4%
Standard:
4 lb/1.8 kg
Bantam:
1.3 lb/0.6 kg

APA (1928):
Large: All Other Bantam: Game
PC: Hard Feather


feathers prized for fly tying
Game

Developed in England in 19th & 20th century from ancient stock

poor

white to light tint

large single (often dubbed)
white skin & shanks
red
excellent brooder (or annoyingly too frequent brooder);
protective mother
hardy; cold hardy
slow to mature
needs to be active; less tolerant of close confinement; aggressive, self-sufficient; noisy

Small fighting cocks and their mates.

small

Orloff or Russian Orloff
FS PP box GO

Red, White


Very rare
12%
6.0 lb/2.7 kg

APA: Not recognized (dropped from Continental)
PC: Heavy, Rare


Fancy:
Bearded & muffed

Reportedly developed in Russia in 18th century from Persian stock. Once called Chlianskaia, current name probably derives from Count Orloff-Techesmensky, a Russian breeder

fair

light
brown

walnut
yellow skin &
legs
red
non-setter
hardy
slow to mature
adapts to confinement; calm, but not docile, avoids human contact

Wild-looking thing

small

Buff Orpington
Orpington
portrait FS OK Om AR PP box GO

Buff, Black, Blue, White


Only buffs are still popular.
88%/8% (buff/all other)
Standard:
8 lb/3.6 kg
Bantam:
2.2 lb/1 kg

APA (1902):
Large
: English Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Soft Feather Heavy


Dual Purpose
[formerly Meat]

Originally developed by William Cook in Orpington (County Kent) the 1880s. Some varieties developed by his daughter.

good

brown

good winter layer

single
white skin &
white or dark shanks
red
good, or frequent, brooder;
excellent mother
hardy; very cold hardy
moderately early maturing

adaptable to free range; very adaptable to confinement; docile; more easily handled; can be bullied

Our Birds: ours have been docile enough, and some have fit pretty low in the pecking order, but none of ours have shown the "friendliness" that others have claimed for the breed.

Big gentle bird.

medium to large

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Penedesenca
FS GO club

Creole, Partridge, Wheaten, Black


Very, very rare. Only recently available in North America.
0%
4 lb/1.8 kg

APA: Not recognized
PC: Not recognized


Layer

Rescued, or somewhat developed, from ancient stock in Catalan district of Spain in 20th century. Penedesenca Negra developed in 1980s.

very good

very
dark
red-
brown

clavell (carnation)
white skin, blue-grey shanks
white
non-setter
very hardy in heat
slow to mature
well adaptable to free range; active; flighty; avoids human contact

The dark egg layer that wears a crown

small
to medium

Phoenix
portrait FS PP box GO

Partridge; Silver Duckwing; White; other colors


Uncommon 36%
Standard:
4 lb/1.8 kg
Bantam:
1.75 lb/0.8 kg

APA (1965):
Large
: All Other Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Light Rare (not recognized separately from Yokohama)


hackel feathers prized for fly tying
Fancy
Long-tailed

Developed in Europe and the U.S. from the Japanese long-tailed breed called the Onagadori.

poor

white to tinted
single
yellow skin; yellow or slate shanks
red
can be broody,
protective mothers
reportedly short lived;
because of fancy feathering,
not suited for foul weather
slow to mature
requires special housing or cages & high perches to accommodate long tails; generally docile

Honorable long-tail.

small

Barred Rock
Plymouth Rock
portrait FS OK Om ARPP box GO club

Barred, White, Buff, Silver Penciled, Partridge, Columbian, Blue


Popular
96%/84%/52%/32% (barred/white/prtg/all other)
Standard:
7.5 lb/3.4 kg
Bantam:
2.2 lb/1 kg

APA (1874):
Large: American Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Soft Feather Heavy


feathers prized for fly tying
Dual Purpose

Developed in New England in 19th century.

Once common on the homestead, still popular in the backyard.

good

light (or pinkish) to
medium
brown

good winter layer

small
single
yellow skin &
shanks
red
infrequent brooder; good mother
robust; very cold hardy
somewhat early maturing

well adaptable to confinement or free range; calm, docile; more easily handled

Our Birds: ours have been good, solid, dependable birds that have blended in well with the flock, not standing out for good or bad reasons.

Once upon a time America's favorite breed.

large

Polish or
Poland
portrait FS OK Om AR PP

Bearded & Beardless; Black, White, Golden, Silver, Buff Laced


Popular as a show bird.
56%
4-4.5 lb/1.8-2 kg

APA (1874):
Large
: Continental
Bantam: All Other Clean Legged
PC: Soft Feather Light


Fancy:
Crested

Originated in Europe, but probably not Poland, before the 16th century. Once known for good egg production, now almost strictly ornamental.

varies widely

poor

to

very good
white
small V
white skin,
blue shanks
white
non-setter
some subject to health problems;
because of fancy feathering,
not suited for foul weather;
| may have problems with
freezing crest feathers;
special care may be needed
since plumage blocks vision
bears confinement well; mixed reports -- either calm or somewhat flighty; obstructed vision can hinder some activities; can be bullied

Perhaps the oldest of the crested breeds.

small

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Redcap or Red Cap or Derbyshire Redcap
FS OK PP box

Red & black pattern, only


Very rare.
8%
6 lb/2.7 kg

APA (1888):
Large: English Bantam: Rose Comb Clean Legged
PC: Soft feather Light


Layer
Fancy:
Large rose comb

Developed in Derbyshire.

good
white

very large spiked rose
white skin,
blue shanks
red
non-setter

hardy


moderately early maturing
can adapt to confinement; active

Think huge rose comb.

small

Rhode Island Red
Rhode Island
portrait FS OK AL Om AR PP box club

Rhode Island Red & Rhode Island White
(two separate breeds)


Popular, but purebreds are uncommon.
68%/44%/28% (production/red/white)
Standard:
6.5 lb/2.9 kg
Bantam:
2 lb/0.9 kg

APA (1904/1922): Large: American Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Soft Feather Heavy


Dual Purpose

Developed in New England in 19th century.

prolific

rich
medium
brown

good winter layer

large
single;
also rose
yellow skin &
shanks
red
infrequent brooder;
can be dutiful mother
robust; hardy in heat & cold;
combs subject to frostbite
moderately early maturing

well adaptable to confinement or free range; active, calm & fairly docile, can be aggressive (cocks are especially notorious)

Our Birds: we've had very limited experience, but the few hens we have had have been more aggressive than most other breeds.

Best of breeds for producing brown eggs.

large

Rosecomb
FS AR Om PP

Black, White, Silver Laced, others.


Common.
67%
True bantam:
1.3 lb/0.6 kg

APA (1874):
Bantam
: Rose Comb Clean Legged
PC: True Bantam


Bantam

Origins unclear & disputed. Claimed to be direct descendant of the original Bantam, but may be related to Hamburg.

poor

white to
cream

rose
yellow skin & shanks
white
non-setter
hardy in heat & cold
slow to mature?
tolerates confinement; fliers; generally docile, cocks can be aggressive

The original rosecombed, clean-legged bantam

tiny

Breed
(with links to other sites with images & more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class & Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Sebright
portrait FS AR Om PP box

Silver, Golden


Very popular.
87%
True bantam:
1.3 lb/0.6 kg

APA (1874):
Bantam: Rose Comb Clean Legged
PC: True Bantam


Bantam
Both male & female hen-feathered

Developed before 1810 in England by Sir John Sebright, after thirty years of breeding.

poor

creamy
white

rose
yellow skin & shanks
purplish red
non-setter
not robust;
| chicks difficult to rear
slow to mature
tolerates confinement; fliers; jaunty, sprightly

The beautifully laced bantam

tiny

Silkie
FS OK AR Om box

Bearded & Beardless; Black, White, Blue, Buff, Partridge, Gray


Probably the most popular bantam breeds.
100%
True bantam:
2.2 lb/1 kg

APA (1874):
Bantam: Feather Legged
PC: Soft feathered Light & Bantam both


Black skin, face, comb, & wattles
Hair-like plumage
Turquoise earlobes

Five-Toed
Crested
Feather footed

Already developed in China by the time of Marco Polo (13th century)

Large & Bantam classes are recognized in some countries

poor
light
tint
walnut
black skin & shanks
turquoise
one of the most broody (or very annoyingly too frequent brooder)
hardy in heat & cold;
because of fancy feathering,
not suited for foul weather
slow to mature
adapts well to confinement; calm, docile

An oddity of oddities of the poultry and pet world

small

Spanish, White-Faced Black Spanish, Spanish White Ear, or Clownface
FS OK PP box GO PB

White-Faced Black only


Very rare, & becoming even rarer.
12%
6 lb/2.7 kg

APA (1874):
Large
: Mediterranean Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Light, Rare


Layer
Fancy:
White face

Oldest of the Mediterranean breeds, developed in Spain.

good, but some are very poor
white

large single
grey skin,
dark shanks
white
non-setter
reportedly subject to health problems; heat tolerant;
combs subject to frostbite
slow to develop;
white face takes more than a year
adaptable to confinement, but prefers free range; flighty, haughty, noisy, avoids human contact

Handsome, graceful, rare.

large

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Sultan
FS OK PP box

White, only


Uncommon.
24%
4.0 lb/ 1.8 kg

APA (1874):
Large
: All Other Bantam: Feather Legged
PC: Light, Rare


Fancy:
Crested
Bearded & muffed
Feather-footed, fully
Five toed

Introduced from Turkey in mid-19th century.

poor
white
horn, V-shaped, duplex
white skin & shanks
white? [hidden under feathers
non-setter
not suited for foul weather;
may have problems with
freezing crest feathers
moderately slow developing
suited for close confinement; calm, non-aggressive; more easily handled

All for show.

small

Sumatra
FS OK PP box GO PB

Black, only


Uncommon
40%
7 lb/ 3.2 kg

APA (1883):
Large
: All Other
Bantam: All Other Clean Legged
PC: Light, Rare


Game

An ancient breed, introduced from Sumatra.

poor
white
large single
yellow skin & shanks
dark red
can be broody
hardy in heat & cold
needs to be active; intolerant of close confinement; pugnacious

A giant on long legs

medium

Speckled Sussex
Sussex
portrait FS OK Om AR PP box GO RF

Speckled, Red, Light


Uncommon.
44%/0% (speckled/all other)
Standard:
7 lb/3.2 kg
Bantam:
2.2 lb/1 kg

APA (1914):
Large
: English Bantam: Single Comb Clean Legged
PC: Soft Feather Heavy


Dual Purpose

Developed in county of Sussex in early 19th century.

very good

creamy
to light
brown

good winter layer

single
white skin &
shanks
red
good brooder & mother
robust; very cold hardy
moderately early maturing

well adaptable to confinement or free range; calm; gentle; active; can be curious; more easily handled

Our Birds: a few have been among our favorites for personality.

An old English favorite

medium to large

Breed
(with links to other sites with images and more information)

Varieties / Rarity / What's a hen weigh?

Class and Type

Origins

Egg color & productivity; egg size

Comb
Skin color
Earlobes

Brooding
Hardiness
Maturing

Behavior

Welsumer
Welsumer or Welsummer
FS AR Om PP box GO club

Red Partridge


Once little known, but gaining popularity.
12%
Standard:
6 lb/2.7 kg
Bantam:
2 lb/0.9 kg

APA (2001):
Large: Continental
PC: Soft Feather Light


Dual Purpose

Developed in Holland in 20th century.

good, some very good

rich
dark
terracotta
brown

small single
yellow skin &
shanks
red
mixed reports on
setting & brooding
hardy; cold hardy
moderately early maturing

well adaptable to confinement or free range; lively, but more docile than flighty.

Our Birds: some of our hens have laid solid dark brown eggs. Even more popular with many of our customers have been the very large speckled brown Welsumer eggs.

Backyard bird with big brown eggs.

large

Silver Laced Wyandotte
Wyandotte
portrait FS OK Om AR PP box GO PB

Silver Laced, Golden Laced, White, Buff, Partridge, Silvered Penciled, Columbian


Popular.
92%/64%/24% (slver/gold/all other)
Standard:
6.5 lb/2.9 kg
Bantam:
2.2 lb/1 kg

APA (1883):
Large
: American Bantam: Rose Comb Clean Legged
PC: Soft Feather Heavy


feathers prized for fly tying
Dual Purpose

Developed in New York State & Wisconsin in late 19th century.

good

light
to rich
brown

good winter layer

rose
yellow skin &
shanks
red
infrequent brooder;
excellent mother
robust; very cold hardy
moderately early maturing

well adaptable to confinement or free range; calm.

Our Birds: Most of ours have been docile, but some individuals have been aggressive. Most have been aloof in terms of human contact.

The "bird of curves."

large

Yokohama
portrait FS PP box GO

Red shouldered & white; White; other colors


Rare
4%
4 lb/ 1.8 kg

APA:
Large
: All Other Bantam: All Other Clean Legged
PC: Light Rare


hackel feathers prized for fly tying
Fancy:
Long-tailed

Called Yokohama from the port of origin. Developed in Germany in the 19th century from the Japanese long-tailed breed called the Minohiki.

poor

tinted
walnut or pea
yellow skin & shanks
white
can be broody,
protective mothers
because of fancy feathering,
not suited for foul weather
slow to mature
requires special housing or cages & high perches to accommodate long tails; generally docile; cocks can be pugnacious around other cocks

Elegant long-tail.

small

Numerous books (new and old, and including those by authors Harry Lewis, Lewis Wright, Alanna Moore, H. S. Babcock, Caleb N. Bement, Frank L. Platt, Louis M. Hurd, James E. Rice and Harold E. Botsford, Joseph Batty, Ian Kay, Eric Bailey, Page Smith and Charles Daniel, and Tamara Staples), articles from Mother Earth News, Organic Gardening, and Science News, the Murray McMurray and Glenn Drown's Sand Hill Preservation Center catalogs, the websites in the "KEY TO LINKS" section below, and multiple other Web sites were consulted in creating the chicken chart. Sources, of course, do not always agree, so personal judgments, common sense, and some personal knowledge were also used in determining the final make-up of the chart. If you have corrections or suggestions, please let me know.

Notes on symbols and keywords:


This page authored and maintained by: John R. Henderson (jhenderson@ithaca.edu), Sage Hen Farm, Lodi, NY.
Last modified: November 17, 2009
All chicken portraits are by Diane Jacky and are used by permission.
Photograph of egg assortment (before they became chipotle scrambled eggs) by Kelda Brown
This page was formerly known as the ICYouSee Handy Dandy Chicken Chart
URL: http://www.ithaca.edu/staff/jhenderson/chooks/chooks.html