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A variety of poultry, known as the Barnevelder Chicken, originated in the Netherlands region of Barneveld just before the First World War. Due to the rich brown color, and the high quality, of the eggs, the species became sought-after by other countries and, consequently, in 1921 exports began. Another main attraction was the fact that hens produced were excellent layers.

A popular choice of color is the double laced variety. However, Barnevelders are also available in partridge, black, and silver. In its predominantly brown plumage, the hen has black double lacing. Often, this is called a double-laced partridge. Roosters have luxurious plumage with sprays of shimmering green, violet, and bronze. Some have a white and blue lacing.

Plumage of the female and the male has been described as ‘rich in texture and very tight’. Barnevelders have single combs, yellow skin, and red ear lobes. They look very impressive with nice upright stances and broad breasts. Their flying capabilities are somewhat lacking due to short wings.

While their original claim to fame was their egg-laying abilities and the unique color of the eggs, today most Barnevelders are used for show purposes. The egg color now has little significance because the focus is more on the bird’s external appearance. The eggs are lighter in color and the modern hen doesn’t lay as many eggs as her Dutch ancestors.

Nevertheless, they are good winter layers and have friendly, quiet dispositions. In addition to being bred for showing, they are also bred as a good utility breed. Because their weight is medium-to-heavy, they are great all-purpose birds that are capable of producing an ample supply of eggs. A Barnevelder also yields a tasty carcass for the table. They are wonderful foragers and extremely hardy. The breed is lazy and prone to getting fat if kept cooped up. Ideally, they should be free-range.

Females and males are docile in temperament and love being around humans. They make good pets, particularly for children. In a short time, they can be domesticated and won’t mind being handled, picked up, or stroked. Young ones might need to be socialized before becoming a genuine pet. Unlike other breeds, Barnevelders will even try and nurture a new baby in the human family.

They are easygoing and relate well to adults and children. Similar to a dog, a pet chicken will follow his or her owners around. Some people have said that Barnevelders also show guarding characteristics. The hen is a doting mother and will brood her eggs. When the chicks have hatched, she gives them care and attention. Even the rooster plays his role in parenthood.

In comparison to other breeds, the chicks take longer to feather-out. On maturity, hens weigh up to 6 pounds, and roosters can reach up to 8 pounds. To conclude, one can definitely say that the Barnevelder Chicken will make an excellent all-purpose utility bird that is a good layer, a good pet, and good to eat. Hens can lay 180-200 eggs a year and jumbo eggs can weigh up to 3 ounces. The manure is a fantastic garden fertilizer.

For more information about the Barnevelder Chicken and to find the right chicken coop to keep your chickens in visit ChickenCoopAdvice.com