Perfect Chickens
(Page 5 of 6)
September/October 2007
Oscar H. Will III
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Although named for Poland, this crested breed is thought to have originated in Eastern Europe or Russia before the 16th century. Historically, Polish hens were known for their egg production, but, as ornamentals, they always require protection from foul weather. Polish chickens come in many color variations, often with contrasting-colored crests.
Although they are best known for their large rose comb (complete with very large spike), the Redcap (also Red Cap and Derbyshire Redcap in some references) breed is also known for its non-broody hens that are prolific layers of small eggs. This breed matures relatively early, is known for its hardiness and easily adapts to confined management.
Sir John Sebright’s several-decades-long breeding program, which spanned the late 18th and early 19th centuries, resulted in this diminutive breed. Sebright roosters lack pointed hackle and other male-characteristic plumage and are so-called hen feathered. The hens lay tiny eggs from which tiny, relatively difficult-to-raise chicks emerge. Sebrights are described as jaunty and sprightly, and they are excellent fliers.
During the Colonial period, the Spanish (also White-Faced Black Spanish, Spanish White Ear, Clownface) came to the United States from Spain via the Caribbean. As the oldest of the Mediterranean breeds, the Spanish is known for the large patch of white skin (very large earlobes) on the sides of the face. The bird is most comfortable ranging free and is known to be noisy and heat tolerant.
This ancient breed looks distinctive because of its long, low tail, multiple spurs and dark purple face. Although relatively large, the Sumatra is neither a gifted meat provider nor egg source. The birds resemble the wild jungle fowl of the Far East, and, as such, they do not tolerate confinement. Interestingly, the breed is both heat and cold tolerant and is well able to fend for itself.
As excellent meat and egg producers, the Sussex make perfect farm chickens. The hens are broody and make good mothers, and the cockerels are heavy and well muscled. Sussex chickens are well mannered, friendly and easy to handle. They are also very cold hardy, robust and adaptable to a wide range of management schemes.
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