Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Easter Eggers are, by far, the most fun variety of chicken to own. Easter Eggers are not a
breed, but rather a variety of chicken that does not conform to any breed. It does not belong to
a class, and therefore cannot be shown in a competition. These birds tend to be quite friendly
and social. Easter Eggers lay colorful, extra-large eggs from blue to green to aqua and pink in
different shades of those colors.
Easter Eggers bear confinement well and are hardy, so they can endure hot, cold, wet, or dry
climates. They are docile and make for a wonderful family pet. Children will marvel at the
different colored eggs — and adults will, too.
These birds have a clean leg with four toes on each foot. They are a large fowl but have a ban-
tam counterpart. Roosters weigh 7 pounds, hens weigh about 5 to 6 pounds, and bantams are
about 3 pounds. Hens lay about 200 eggs a year, but some have been known to lay 6 to 8 eggs
per week. This would give you close to 400 eggs yearly. They are well worth the investment.
Easter Eggers are easy to find because they are a common mixed breed. Often, they are mis-
takenly labeled Araucanas or Americaunas because of the similarity of their colored eggs.
Both of these breeds produce colorful eggs and are most likely crossed with the Easter Egger,
but Araucanas and Americaunas are both recognized breeds.
Best Chickens for Meat
Chickens not only provide fresh eggs, but also they can provide meat for your family. Some
owners become attached to their flocks and do not think they can slaughter a chicken for food,
but as long as it is performed in a quick and humane manner, killing a bird for food is an hon-
orable way to end its life.
Dorking
This British breed has been around for about 2,000 years, and its specific purpose is to be a
plump, meaty bird able to feed a family. Its colors are red, silver-gray, and white. The combs
of silver-gray and red birds should be single. The combs of white birds should be rose, which
means they are fleshy, flat, and broad on the top. The combs are broad and solid, and the main
part has a curved surface with small and round protuberances.
The rooster weighs between 10 to 14 pounds, and the hen weighs 8 to 10 pounds. Bantams
weigh up to 3 pounds and are good for meat. Their legs are clean, short, and white with five
