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Chicken Breed Directory

NOTE: Unless stated otherwise, all of the breeds in this directory are docile / family-friendly, cold-hardy, bear confinement well and are full-size birds (not bantams).

Brown Egg Layers

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Amberlink

Amberlink

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Australorp

Australorp

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Blue Sapphire Plymouth Rock

Blue Sapphire Plymouth Rock

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Barnevelder

Barnevelder

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Brahma

Brahma

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Buckeye

Buckeye

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Cochin

Cochin

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Cornish Cross

Cornish Cross

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Delaware

Delaware

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Dominique

Dominique

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Faverolle

Faverolle

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Jersey Giant

Jersey Giant

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Marans

Marans

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Naked Neck

Naked Neck

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New Hampshire

New Hampshire

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Orpington

Orpington

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Plymouth Rock

Plymouth Rock

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Rhode Island Red

Rhode Island Red

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Sex Link

Sex Link

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Sussex

Sussex

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Swedish Flower Hen

Swedish Flower Hen

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Welsummer

Welsummer

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Wyandotte

Wyandotte

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Categories

All Breeds

EGG COLOR
Blue Eggs
Brown Eggs
Green Eggs
White Eggs

EGG PRODUCTION
≤ 3 / wk
3-4 / wk
4-5 / wk
5+ / wk

BREED PURPOSE
Dual Purpose
Egg Production
Meat
Ornamental

BREED TYPE
Heritage breed
Non-heritage breed
Hybrid / Crossbreed

What is a heritage breed?

A heritage breed is one that is recognized by the American Poultry Association. Heritage breeds are those that can mate naturally, are genetically stable, have a typically long outdoor lifespan, and a relatively slow growth rate. Many heritage breeds have existed for hundreds of years. They are naturally better foragers than hybrids but also are more prone to broodiness.

What is a non-heritage breed?

A non-heritage breed has all of the characteristics of a heritage breed but has not been recognized by the American Poultry Association as a standard.

What is a hybrid / crossbreed?

A hybrid (or crossbreed) is a bird that is bred to produce a specific characteristic, usually high egg production. Many hybrids are “auto-sexing,” meaning males and females are easily distinguishable when hatched. A hybrid cannot be considered a “breed” because it cannot produce offspring that have the same characteristics it has. While hybrids will lay more eggs than heritage breeds, they also do not live as long and are more susceptible to disease.

What is Breed Purpose?

Breed Purpose describes the best use for a breed. Some breeds are best for Egg Production only, while some are bred specifically for their Meat. Then there are Dual Purpose breeds, which are good egg layers but can also be harvested for meat. Ornamental breeds are meant for show or as pets. Most ornamental breeds are not good layers nor are they good for meat.
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