Even if you are fond of chickens, you may not have heard about Australorps. It's a somewhat rare breed, but one worth learning about! Here is a brief look at this chicken, and why you might want to include them in your coop. The Australorp is considered a large breed chicken, with hens weighing an average of seven pounds and roosters averaging eight to nine pounds. They have black feathers; it is rare to see any white plumage on them anywhere. They are very pretty, and in the sunlight the black can take on a green shimmer. They are often mistaken for Black Jersey Giants. The Australorp, however, is smaller. The best way to tell the difference between the two breeds is to check the bottoms of the feet on the adults. Jersey Giants will have yellow, while the Australorps will have a pink/white color. This breed got its start in Australia, where it was bred from the English Orpington stock (hence the name Austral-orps). It was bred as a dual purpose, or utility chicken, that would provide both eggs and meat. It was officially recognized as a distinct poultry breed in 1929. This breed is renowned for its prolific egg laying. Rumor has it that one hen set a record by laying 364 eggs in 365 days. The record is under dispute, but one thing is not: hens of this breed that are happy will typically lay anywhere from 250-300 eggs per year, which means they keep laying in winter! The eggs are a pretty light brown and will be medium to large in size. Being a dual-purpose bird also means it's good for meat. Because the hens are outstanding brooding hens (brooding hens sit on eggs and take good care of the chicks), the fact that they can be used for meat is good news. You can make use of excess roosters or laying hens to put dinner on the table. One of the best things about these Australorps is not in their use for meat or eggs. They have an exceptional temperament. They are so friendly and docile that many people keep them as pets! Some chickens can be dangerous around children, but this breed is perfect for the little ones. There is a bantam version of this breed that would be ideal for a pet. This really is a great all-around breed! They tolerate confinement extremely well, are winter-hardy, good layers, and good brooding hens. In addition to being calm, they are generally quiet at well. Like their English Orpington cousins, they are also not prone to flying too high, making it easy to keep them in a fenced area. So where can you get some of these wonderful birds? Check the Internet for reliable hatcheries. Typically a hatchery will send day-old chickens via mail (as a perishable item). Check to be sure that if you order fewer than ten chicks that they are shipped with heat packs. They will not need food and water for the first few days because they will have all their nourishment from their time inside the egg. Make sure that you will be available to pick them up as soon as they arrive! Follow the instructions from the hatchery and you will be able to enjoy this amazing breed of chicken for years to come!
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The Australorp is considered a large breed chicken, with hens weighing an average of seven pounds and roosters averaging eight to nine pounds.
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