I am still talking about chickens! There are over 60 recognized true breeds of chickens worldwide, not including countless hybrids and crosses. One of my favorite kinds has a connection to an old movie, The Egg and I, a great tale of romance on a poultry farm. Fred McMurray raised Speckled Sussex in the movie and at the time of the film, they were considered a tremendous dual-prupose egg layer for large productions. That was before Leghorns hit the scence and the Sussex fell out of favor. They were on the endangered conservancy list, and when I first started raising chickens, they were impossible to find, like Icelandic are now. I finally purchased some from buchheit and have not been disappointed!
Speckled Sussex
The Speckled Sussex is an ancient breed with genetic ties to the Dorking. It originated in the English county of Sussex where their primary function was as table fowl. They have a calm disposition and great foraging instincts make this breed an excellent addition for my flocks.
While they are not super egg producers, laying in the 180-200 range per year, they make amazing Alpha females to take the place of the missing rooster. The Speckled variety will go broody and make great mothers. They become “speckled” with each molt adding to their beauty as they age. Weather-hardy, they do well in confinement. They tend to get overweight so watch their food intake. I love my English gals!
Wyandottes
Did you know that this breed of chicken was named in honor of the Native American Huron Tribe, collectively known as the Wendat or Wyandot? They are the only recognized true breed that has a rose comb that lacks a spike and will sometimes produce chicks with single combs. What most flockers like about the Wyandottes is their lovely feather color combinations like the Blue Laced Rose Wyandottes that are the rave. They are a great dual-purpose breed that will go broody, do well in confinement and are winter-hardy. Some strains are somewhat aggressive, but most are docile and gentle: a great choice to add color to your flocks.
Quirks
The Quirks are the breeds that, in many flocks, are more attractive than good egg layers (think Polish, Silkies, Buttercups, La Fleche, Jersey Giants, Cubalaya and Sultan to name a few). I mention the Quirks because they are just pure fun! Everyone should indulge in raising a few birds just for the joy of watching their antics.
Do your homework and know in advance the individual needs of your pick. For example, Polish with the head tusks are inquisitive birds who may find themselves stuck in a fence they didn’t see, so provide them with housing where they are safer or clip their head feathers. The rare breeds are sometimes called “painting in DNA” meaning they are stunning to look at, but for show purposes only. That’s great! Remember that I stated in each of these posts on breeds that the best breed is the one that meets your needs. Enjoy your chickens! Anne May
