Feathers & Eggshells: Choosing Chicken Breeds Perfect for Your Homestead

rivercreststables
Dec 4, 2023
13 min read

Welcome to our guide on selecting the perfect chicken breeds for your homestead! In the rich tapestry of poultry, the diverse array of chicken breeds offers a spectrum of traits, from prolific egg-layers to excellent meat producers and charming backyard companions. Our comprehensive list dives into some of the most popular and our personal favorite breeds. Each breed brings its unique blend of characteristics, ranging from temperament to egg color and size, meat quality, adaptability, and cold or heat tolerance.

Orpington's

When it comes to picturesque and personable poultry, Orpington chickens stand out as an iconic breed. Developed in the 1800s by William Cook in England, these birds have gained admiration for their captivating appearance, friendly nature, and practical qualities, making them a cherished addition to homesteads worldwide.

Appearance

Orpingtons boast a striking appearance with their large, round bodies and fluffy plumage. They come in various colors, including Buff, Black, Blue, and White. Their soft, feathering creates an attractive, cuddly appeal, while their broad, low stance gives them a majestic yet gentle aura.

Traits: Renowned for their calm and gentle temperament, Orpingtons make excellent additions to family flocks. They're known to be quite sociable, often enjoying human company and readily adapting to various environments. These chickens are also known for their docility, making them ideal companions, especially for children.

Size/Weight

Orpingtons are considered medium to large-sized chickens. Roosters can weigh between 8-10 pounds, while hens typically range from 7-9 pounds. Their larger size makes them excellent dual-purpose birds, suitable for both meat and egg production.

Pros:

Egg Production: Orpingtons are moderate to good layers, producing approximately 180-200 eggs annually. Their eggs are large to extra-large in size with light brown shells.
Dual-Purpose Birds: Known for both their egg-laying capabilities and the quality of their meat, making them versatile on homesteads seeking multifunctional chickens.
Cold-Hardy: Their dense feathering makes them resilient in colder climates, allowing them to handle chilly temperatures well.

Cons:

Broodiness: While their broodiness can be an advantage for hatching eggs, it might lead to decreased egg production during brooding periods.
Slower Maturity: Orpingtons tend to mature at a slower rate compared to some other breeds, delaying the onset of egg production.

Final Thoughts

Orpington chickens are an excellent choice for homesteaders seeking friendly, dual-purpose birds that are both visually appealing and functional. Their affable nature, moderate egg production, and versatility make them a beloved addition to any flock, offering a delightful blend of beauty, utility, and companionship.

Wyandotte's

Amidst the diverse world of poultry, Wyandotte chickens emerge as an enchanting breed known for their striking appearance, adaptable nature, and practicality on the homestead. Originating in the United States during the late 1800s, Wyandotte's have garnered admiration for their beauty, hardiness, and versatility.

Appearance

Wyandotte's are recognized for their stunning appearance, featuring a curvy and compact body structure. They exhibit a rose comb and striking, lustrous plumage. Available in various colors such as Silver Laced, Gold Laced, Blue Laced Red, and more, their feathering forms an intricate pattern that captivates the eye.

Traits

Renowned for their calm and docile disposition, Wyandotte's make wonderful additions to family flocks. They possess a friendly demeanor and are known for their adaptability to various environmental conditions, making them suitable for both urban and rural settings.

Size/Weight

Considered medium-sized chickens, Wyandotte roosters typically weigh between 8-9 pounds, while hens average around 6-7 pounds. Their sturdy build and moderate size contribute to their reputation as dual-purpose birds.

Pros:

Egg Production: Wyandotte's are reliable layers, producing approximately 200-220 eggs annually. Their eggs are medium to large in size with brown shells.
Dual-Purpose Birds: Valued for both egg production and quality meat, making them an excellent choice for homesteaders seeking versatility.
Cold Tolerance: With their compact bodies and thick feathering, Wyandotte's exhibit good cold-hardiness, thriving in cooler climates.

Cons:

Broodiness: While broodiness can be advantageous for hatching eggs, it might affect egg production during brooding phases.
Feathered Feet: Some Wyandotte varieties, particularly those with feathered feet, may require extra care to prevent matted or dirty feathers.

Final Thoughts

Wyandotte chickens stand as an exemplary choice for homesteaders seeking a harmonious blend of beauty and functionality. With their affable nature, consistent egg production, and dual-purpose qualities, these birds bring both aesthetic appeal and practicality to any flock, embodying the essence of a well-rounded and adaptable breed.

Brahma

Among the captivating breeds in the poultry world, Brahma chickens stand tall, literally and figuratively. Originating from Asia, these majestic birds have made a significant mark in the hearts of poultry enthusiasts worldwide for their impressive size, gentle demeanor, and practicality on the homestead.

Appearance

Brahmas are renowned for their colossal size and striking appearance. They boast a massive frame, prominent pea comb, and feathered legs and feet. Available in three varieties: Light, Dark, and Buff, their intricate feathering and gentle disposition contribute to their regal presence.

Traits

Known for their calm, gentle, and friendly nature, Brahma chickens make excellent additions to family flocks. Despite their large size, they are docile and easily handled, making them suitable for both rural and urban settings.

Size/Weight

Brahma chickens are considered giants in the poultry world. Roosters can weigh between 9-12 pounds, while hens typically range from 7-9 pounds. Their size and weight make them impressive dual-purpose birds for meat and eggs.

Pros:

Egg Production: While not the most prolific layers, Brahma hens produce around 150-200 eggs annually. Their eggs are medium to large in size with brown shells.
Dual-Purpose Birds: Valued for their sizeable meat production and decent egg-laying capabilities, making them a practical choice for homesteaders seeking versatility.
Cold-Hardy: Their thick feathering and size provide good insulation against cold temperatures, enabling them to thrive in colder climates.

Cons:

Slow Maturity: Brahma chickens tend to mature at a slower rate compared to some other breeds, delaying the onset of egg production.
Feed Consumption: Due to their larger size, Brahmas might consume more feed compared to smaller chicken breeds, impacting overall feeding costs.

Final Thoughts

Brahma chickens, with their colossal size, gentle nature, and dual-purpose qualities, represent a majestic addition to any homestead. While their egg production might not be as high as some breeds, their impressive size, placid temperament, and suitability for various climates make them an appealing choice for those seeking magnificent and practical poultry companions.

Rhode Island Reds

Among the iconic breeds in the world of poultry, Rhode Island Reds stand as a quintessential representation of vigor, productivity, and adaptability. Originating in the United States, these chickens have earned admiration for their resilient nature, prolific egg-laying abilities, and all-around suitability for homesteads.

Appearance

Rhode Island Reds exhibit a rich, mahogany-colored plumage with variations in shading. They possess a sturdy build, a single comb, and bright red eyes. Their appearance exudes a vibrant and robust aura, reflecting their hardiness.

Traits

Renowned for their confident and assertive demeanor, Rhode Island Reds are highly active and independent birds. While they can be more assertive in the flock, they're generally amicable, adaptable, and well-suited for various environments.

Size/Weight

Considered medium-sized chickens, Rhode Island Red roosters typically weigh between 8-9 pounds (3.6-4.1 kg), while hens average around 6.5-8 pounds (2.9-3.6 kg). Their moderate size makes them efficient dual-purpose birds.

Pros:

Egg Production: Rhode Island Reds are excellent layers, producing approximately 200-300 eggs annually. Their eggs are medium to large in size with brown shells.
Dual-Purpose Birds: Valued for both their prolific egg-laying capabilities and quality meat, making them an ideal choice for homesteaders seeking versatility.
Hardiness: Known for their adaptability and resilience, Rhode Island Reds thrive in various climates, making them suitable for different regions.

Cons:

Broodiness: While their broodiness can be beneficial for hatching eggs, it might impact egg production during brooding phases.
Assertive Nature: Rhode Island Reds can display assertive behavior, potentially leading to hierarchy-related conflicts within the flock.

Final Thoughts

Rhode Island Red chickens epitomize the essence of robustness, productivity, and adaptability in the realm of poultry. With their prolific egg-laying abilities, adaptable nature, and suitability for various environments, these birds bring a perfect blend of resilience and productivity to any homestead, embodying the spirit of a dependable and versatile breed.

Leghorns

Leghorn chickens stand as the epitome of egg-laying prowess, renowned for their exceptional productivity and distinct appearance. Originating in Italy, these chickens have earned widespread acclaim for their prolific egg-laying abilities and adaptability to various environments.

Appearance

Leghorns present an elegant and streamlined appearance with a slender build, sleek plumage, and a single upright comb. They commonly come in White, Brown, and Black varieties, showcasing crisp and vibrant feathering that exudes an aura of vitality.

Traits

Known for their active and high-strung nature, Leghorns are remarkably alert and energetic birds. They are independent, self-reliant, and prefer free-ranging, showcasing a robust foraging instinct and adaptability to different management systems.

Size/Weight

Considered small to medium-sized chickens, Leghorn roosters typically weigh between 6-7 pounds (2.7-3.2 kg), while hens average around 4-5 pounds (1.8-2.3 kg). Despite their smaller size, they excel in egg production.

Pros:

Egg Production: Leghorns are exceptional layers, producing approximately 280-320 eggs annually. Their eggs are medium to large in size with white shells.
Efficiency: Known for their feed efficiency, Leghorns convert feed into eggs effectively, making them economical layers.
Adaptability: Their adaptability to various climates and environments makes them suitable for different homestead settings.

Cons:

Flighty Nature: Leghorns exhibit a skittish and flighty disposition, which might make them less suitable for confined spaces or situations requiring calmness.
Broodiness: While less prone to broodiness compared to some other breeds, broody Leghorns might decrease egg production during brooding phases.

Final Thoughts

Leghorn chickens are the epitome of efficiency and productivity in the poultry world. With their exceptional egg-laying abilities, adaptability, and vibrant presence, these birds bring a delightful balance of energy and productivity to any homestead, embodying the essence of prolificacy and adaptability.

Jersey Giants

Jersey Giant chickens stand as colossal figures, revered for their imposing size, gentle nature, and dual-purpose capabilities. Originating in the United States, these magnificent birds have gained admiration for their impressive stature, calm disposition, and practicality on the homestead.

Appearance

Jersey Giants are striking birds known for their immense size and majestic presence. They exhibit a robust build, a broad back, and a single comb. Available in Black, White, and Blue varieties, their glossy feathers and upright stature exude an aura of grandeur.

Traits

Renowned for their calm and docile temperament, Jersey Giants are gentle giants in the poultry world. Despite their impressive size, they possess a friendly and easy-going nature, making them suitable for various farm settings.

Size/Weight

Jersey Giant chickens are true to their name, with roosters weighing between 13-15 pounds (5.9-6.8 kg) and hens averaging around 10-12 pounds (4.5-5.4 kg). Their massive size makes them outstanding dual-purpose birds for meat and eggs.

Pros:

Dual-Purpose Birds: Valued for their substantial meat production and decent egg-laying capabilities, making them an excellent choice for homesteaders seeking versatility.
Gentle Nature: Known for their calm and docile temperament, Jersey Giants are friendly and easily handled, especially considering their size.
Cold Tolerance: Their large size and dense plumage provide insulation against cold weather, enabling them to thrive in colder climates.

Cons:

Slow Maturity: Jersey Giants tend to mature at a slower rate compared to some other breeds, delaying the onset of egg production.
Feed Consumption: Due to their larger size, Jersey Giants may consume more feed compared to smaller chicken breeds, impacting overall feeding costs.

Final Thoughts

Jersey Giant chickens, with their impressive size, gentle temperament, and dual-purpose qualities, stand as majestic and practical additions to any homestead. While their egg production might not be as high as some breeds, their grand stature, amiable nature, and suitability for various climates make them a prized and versatile breed on homesteads.

ISA Browns

ISA Brown chickens stand out as exceptional layers, celebrated for their prolific egg-laying abilities, friendly demeanor, and practicality on homesteads. Originating from the Institut de Sélection Animale in France, these hybrid chickens have gained widespread popularity for their exceptional productivity.

Appearance

ISA Browns typically exhibit a rusty-brown plumage with variations in shading. They feature a sturdy build, a single comb, and bright, expressive eyes. While not flashy in appearance, their practical and hardy characteristics shine through their vibrant, yet functional, plumage.

Traits

Renowned for their calm and friendly temperament, ISA Browns are remarkably docile and easy to handle. They adapt well to various environments and management systems, making them suitable for both novice and experienced poultry keepers.

Size/Weight

Considered medium-sized chickens, ISA Brown hens typically weigh between 5-7 pounds (2.3-3.2 kg). Their moderate size aligns with their primary focus on egg production.

Pros:

Egg Production: ISA Browns are exceptional layers, producing approximately 300-350 eggs annually. Their eggs are medium to large in size with light to medium brown shells.
Consistent Production: Known for their consistent egg-laying throughout the year, providing a steady supply of eggs for homestead needs.
Friendly Nature: Their calm and amiable temperament makes them great additions to family flocks, suitable for various environments.

Cons:

Broodiness: While less prone to broodiness compared to some other breeds, broody ISA Browns might decrease egg production during brooding phases.
Longevity: Due to their high egg production rates, ISA Browns might have a shorter productive lifespan compared to less prolific breeds.

Final Thoughts

ISA Brown chickens epitomize the essence of prolificacy and reliability in egg production. With their exceptional laying capabilities, friendly temperament, and adaptability, these birds bring a perfect balance of productivity and amiability to any homestead, embodying the spirit of practicality and consistency.

Easter Eggers

Among the colorful spectrum of poultry breeds, Easter Egger chickens stand out as delightful, versatile birds, celebrated for their varied plumage, amiable nature, and unique egg traits. Originating as mixed-breed chickens in the United States, these birds have captured the hearts of poultry enthusiasts for their charming appearance and eggciting egg qualities.

Appearance

Easter Eggers boast a vibrant and diverse array of plumage colors, displaying a kaleidoscope of hues ranging from shades of brown, black, red, to even blue and green. Their feathering patterns vary widely, making each bird visually distinctive and often adorned with muffs or beards.

Traits

Renowned for their friendly and docile temperament, Easter Eggers are amiable and adaptable birds. They possess a charming personality, easily integrating into mixed flocks and thriving in diverse environments.

Size/Weight

Easter Eggers are considered medium-sized chickens, with roosters averaging around 6-7 pounds (2.7-3.2 kg) and hens ranging from 4-6 pounds (1.8-2.7 kg). Their size aligns with their focus on egg-laying rather than emphasizing large body mass.

Pros:

Colorful Eggs: Easter Eggers lay eggs in a myriad of hues, including shades of blue, green, and sometimes pink or cream. Their eggs add an element of surprise and beauty to the egg basket.
Adaptability: Known for their adaptability to various climates and environments, making them suitable for different homestead settings.
Personality: Easter Eggers possess a friendly and gentle disposition, making them great companions in mixed flocks or as backyard pets.

Cons:

Inconsistent Egg Colors: While renowned for their colorful eggs, not all Easter Eggers lay blue or green eggs, and egg coloration can vary within the breed.
Egg Production: While generally good layers, their egg production rates may not be as high as some specifically bred egg-laying breeds.

Final Thoughts

Easter Egger chickens, with their vibrant plumage, diverse egg colors, and affable nature, stand as charming and versatile additions to any homestead. While their egg production might not match specialized egg-laying breeds, their unique appearance and colorful eggs bring joy and variety to the egg basket, embodying the essence of charm and surprise.

Cochins

Cochin chickens stand as majestic, regal birds renowned for their ornate appearance, gentle demeanor, and historical significance. Originating from China, these magnificent birds have earned admiration for their striking appearance and friendly disposition.

Appearance

Cochins boast a distinctive appearance characterized by their abundant plumage, feathered legs, and a profusely feathered cushion or "fluff" covering their feet. They come in various colors, including Buff, Partridge, Black, White, and more, showcasing an opulent and ornate appearance.

Traits

Renowned for their calm and docile temperament, Cochins are known for their friendly and sociable nature. They possess a gentle disposition, making them ideal companions in family flocks or as delightful pets.

Size/Weight

Cochin chickens are known for their large size and substantial build. Roosters can weigh between 11-12 pounds (5-5.4 kg), while hens often range from 8-9 pounds (3.6-4.1 kg), making them one of the larger chicken breeds.

Pros:

Broodiness: Cochins are excellent brooders and make exceptional mothers, often willingly hatching and caring for chicks.
Ornamental Value: Renowned for their ornate appearance and unique feathering, making them popular choices for exhibition and ornamental purposes.
Cold-Hardy: Their dense, feathered bodies provide insulation, making them well-suited for colder climates.

Cons:

Slow Maturity: Cochins tend to mature at a slower rate compared to some other breeds, delaying the onset of egg production.
Feathering Maintenance: Their abundant plumage may require additional grooming and maintenance to prevent matting and keep them clean.

Final Thoughts

Cochin chickens, with their opulent appearance, gentle nature, and historical significance, stand as magnificent and ornamental additions to any homestead. While their egg production might not be as high as some specialized breeds, their regal presence and amiable demeanor make them cherished and delightful companions, embodying the essence of majesty and charm.

Silkies

Silkie chickens stand out as unique and enigmatic birds, celebrated for their striking appearance, gentle nature, and distinctive traits. Originating from China, these captivating birds have captured the hearts of poultry enthusiasts for their charming characteristics and endearing demeanor.

Appearance

Silkies are instantly recognizable due to their distinctive appearance, featuring soft, fluffy feathers resembling fur. They possess a unique combination of traits, including black skin, turquoise earlobes, feathered legs, and their most distinctive feature—a crest of feathers on their heads.

Traits

Renowned for their gentle and docile temperament, Silkies are known for their calm and friendly nature. They exhibit a quirky and endearing personality, making them beloved additions to backyard flocks and charming pets.

Size/Weight

Silkie chickens are considered small to medium-sized birds. Roosters typically weigh around 4-5 pounds (1.8-2.3 kg), while hens range from 3-4 pounds (1.4-1.8 kg), making them lightweight and easy to handle.

Pros:

Broodiness: Silkies are excellent brooders and nurturing mothers, often willingly hatching and caring for chicks.
Pet Qualities: Known for their friendly and docile nature, making them great companions and pets, especially for families or those seeking affectionate chickens.
Unique Appearance: Silkies' distinct appearance, characterized by their soft, fur-like feathers and crest, adds a charming and whimsical touch to any flock.

Cons:

Low Egg Production: While Silkies lay eggs, their egg-laying frequency might not be as high as some specialized breeds, averaging around 100-120 eggs annually.
Feathering Maintenance: Their abundant feathering may require extra care and grooming to prevent matting and keep them clean.

Final Thoughts

Silkie chickens, with their endearing appearance, gentle nature, and unique traits, stand as delightful and quirky additions to any homestead. While their egg production may not match some other breeds, their captivating appearance and affectionate disposition make them cherished and charming companions, embodying the essence of whimsy and charm.

Bantams

Bantam chickens shine as small wonders, celebrated for their compact size, vibrant personalities, and diverse array of breeds. Originating from various regions globally, these diminutive birds have charmed poultry enthusiasts with their unique characteristics and adaptability.

Appearance

Bantams come in an array of breeds, each showcasing distinctive plumage, colors, and feather patterns. Despite their diminutive stature, they possess all the characteristics of their larger counterparts, presenting miniature versions of various chicken breeds.

Traits

Renowned for their spirited and lively temperament, Bantams are often known for their boldness despite their small size. They exhibit diverse personalities, from docile and friendly to feisty and assertive, depending on the breed.

Size/Weight

Bantam chickens are notably smaller than standard breeds. Roosters usually weigh between 1-2 pounds (0.45-0.9 kg), while hens range from 0.9-1.5 pounds (0.4-0.7 kg), making them lightweight and manageable.

Pros:

Adaptability: Due to their small size, Bantams require less space and are suitable for smaller yards or urban settings, making them ideal for backyard poultry keeping.
Variety: Bantams come in a diverse range of breeds, offering enthusiasts a plethora of choices in terms of appearance, color, and temperament.
Engaging Personalities: Known for their lively and spirited nature, Bantams can be entertaining and engaging additions to a flock or garden.

Cons:

Egg Size: Bantams lay smaller eggs compared to standard-sized breeds, which may not be suitable for those seeking larger egg yields.
Broodiness: Some Bantam breeds tend to be more prone to broodiness, potentially impacting consistent egg production.

Final Thoughts

Bantam chickens, with their petite size, diverse breeds, and spirited personalities, stand as charming and versatile additions to any poultry enthusiast's collection. While their egg production might not match larger breeds, their engaging characters and adaptability make them cherished and delightful companions, embodying the essence of charm and diversity in the poultry world.