Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
9
Dual-Purpose Chickens
WHAT EXACTLY IS
a dual-purpose chicken? The term is a catchall used to describe chick-
ens that can be raised for both eggs and meat, though they are generally acknowledged
not to be best at either. Dual-purpose chickens are not unsurpassed in their laying abilit-
ies, nor are they preeminent meat birds; rather, they are decent performers in both of these
functions.
Breeds that fall into this category tend to be medium-sized birds, mostly of the brown-
egg-laying group. They are not the fastest growers, but produce a reasonably sized
dressed carcass and a fair number of eggs. Some dual-purpose breeds are more seasonal
layers, and many of them are more useful for one purpose rather than the other, but that
doesn't detract from their versatility and appeal.
Breeds with Two Roles
Breeds that fall in this category typically lay eggs that range in color from tinted to brown,
and most of the breeds from the English class of chickens are in this group. This includes
Orpingtons, Sussex, and Dorkings.
The English Classes
Orpingtons
come in a number of colors, of which the principal varieties in North Amer-
ica are the common Buff, the White and Black, and the rarer and more highly sought-after
Blue. Orpingtons are by nature fluffy birds, with feathers that make them appear much
larger than they actually are. They have a white leg with a pink streak. Typical of the
English breeds, Orpingtons are low to the ground — not tall in stature. The hens are good
layers and the males make a reasonably sized meat bird.
