The Wyandotte rooster will weigh around 8 to 9 pounds and will be one of the coop's biggest chickens. Updated on: June 24, 2023 by Leah Shelton The Wyandotte chicken breed is one of America's favorite breeds and for good reason too. Other varieties, such as Golden-Laced, Blue-Laced Red, and Columbian, offer unique color combinations. Initially, the breed was referred to as the American Sebright but was renamed to Wyandotte to honor a Native American tribe from the region. While some breeds are more akin to certain personality types, the way that theyre raised has a lot to do with temperament. Golden Laced Wyandotte Chicken growing up. These issues include egg binding and prolapse. We list a few of the main attributes below. Adult: Horizontal black and white stripes of feathers all over. Delve into a wealth of information on various chicken varieties by exploring our comprehensive list on Encyclopedia of Chicken Breeds. Wyandotte Chickens Red Laced Wyandottes - Photo by Cackle Hatchery This popular breed was developed in the late 1800s. Wyandotte chickens will let you know when theyre laying and roosters will make themselves heard if they think their girls are at risk, but other than those twoveryreasonable reasons to get vocal, Wyandottes are a quiet breed. The Blue Laced Red Wyandottes are beautiful chickens that have a blue laced red color pattern which is buff/red in color with a blue that looks just like grey around the edge of every feather. They have a rose comb. The Wyandotte chicken breed might be perfect for you if you have kids or are wanting a breed that can go broody at times. Wyandottes are very consistent layers, and will mostly lay year-round, especially if you put just a little bit of supplemental light in their coop during the darkest days. These beautiful birds are incredibly docile. Is the Wyandotte Chicken Right For Me? Fred Houdlette, John Ray, L. Whittaker, and H.M. Doubleday bred the very first fluffily feathered Wyandottes. This lessens the hardiness of the breed and is likely to reduce their numbers. Wyandotte chickens reach maturity at 20 weeks of age. Regular veterinary check-ups are recommended. 8 square feet per bird would be best in the coop, and 12 inches of roost bar. Wyandotte chicks dont always look like mini versions of Mum and Dad! Lets start with this key bit of info: it's pronouncedwhy-en-dot. Change Wyandotte Ordinance to Allow Backyard Hens With all this variation, the Wyandotte can be found at most poultry shows. Wyandotte Chicken facts Category: Pet, eggs, & meat Origin: United States Egg-laying ability: Good Broodiness: Moderate-high Meat production: Good Cold tolerance: Exceptional Heat tolerance: Poor-moderate Predator evasion: Moderate Foraging ability: Good Toleration for confinement: Moderate-high Sound too good to be true? There is no catch. The Livestock Conservancy defines heritage breeds as chickens that were raised by our forefathers or breeds that were established before commercial agricultural practices became commonly used. The name was changed to pay homage to the Wyandotte Indian Nation in recognition for the help they offered to the American settlers. They are slow birds though. Theres actuallytoomuch choice! Your email address will not be published. I really enjoyed your free teachings about this fantastic birds. The Wyandotte hen is not a very broody broad. They are a great choice for backyards and farms, urban and suburban homesteads. In summary, the Wyandotte chicken breed is ideal for owners who are living in any climate, want large eggs, and dont mind their chickens being a little quiet. If you are lucky enough to enjoy a hot climate, or you are looking to breed your chicks, then there may be better poultry to plump for. One of the only hens on our homestead that was friendly enough to get named was Lacey, a Silver-Laced Wyandotte. Wyandottes start at $2 each, and they have a 3 chick minimum (most hatcheries have a 15 chick minimum order). Proper preventative measures and quick attention to health issues can help maintain a healthy, thriving Wyandotte flock. Wyandottes are considered to be a medium breed of chicken. They won't start a scrap - theyre not aggressive for the sake of it - but they will finish a fight on top if theyre pushed. They are also highly rated on Google and have been in business since 1936. In order to prevent sleeping squabbles, make sure your Wyandottes have a least twelve inches of roosting space per chicken, and more if possible. Take the guesswork out of raising happy & healthy chickens with instant access to a list of the top 57 tips from expert chicken keepers - absolutely free! If you're looking for a beautiful bird that really is a great dual-purpose poultry pick, then Wyandottes are right for you! Due to their recent popularity, it is much easier to find Wyandottes for sale than it used to be. The mission then became to discover what breed of chicken was best for our familys backyard and what types of food, water, and shelter did we need to accommodate them. Watch a Tour of Our Hatchery! On the other hand, Wyandotte roosters can exhibit more assertive traits, but this is common in roosters across many breeds. You might need some help from the egg-sperts. Wyandotte Chickens: Breed Profile, Facts, Photos and Care - AgronoMag Their dense feathering provides effective insulation, helping them maintain body temperature even during the coldest months. Chicks: White, black, or a speckly dalmatian combination. As for egg laying, they are awesome, and among our top producers of lovely brown eggs every year. If allowed to free range, their foraging instincts will help control pests in your yard such as ticks, caterpillars, and even small rodents, frogs, and snakes. Wyandotte chickens have a rose comb, a broad and flat comb characterized by its close-fitting, oval shape. According to thehappychickencoop.com, this is the first American breed of chicken to be bred with the intention of being dual purpose, in other words, to be bred for both meat and egg production. You can get Wyandotte chickens from most online hatcheries. Chick: Okay, so these do look a bit like their folks! This slightly chubby chicken has a little extra insulation. This article discusses the temperament, traits, and production of Wyandotte Chickens. They may become infested with lice, mites, or worms. We list a few of the main attributes below. Because these birds are dual-purpose, you get both meat and eggs from Wyandotte chickens. Parasites are a potential health concern for any chickens. The Wyandotte chicken breed originated in northern New York and southern parts of Canada. After some debate, we decided the best breed of chicken to start our family flock was Silver Laced Wyandotte, a color variation of an amazing breed of chicken. Description Availability Vaccination Video Reviews (46) Breed Facts Poultry Show Class: American Class Weights: Hen -6 1/2 lbs Rooster-8 1/2 lb Pullet-5 1/2 lbs Cockerel7 1/2 lbs Purpose and Type: Primary production, Egg Laying & Pet/Secondary meat source Egg Shell Color: Brown Egg Production: 180-260 eggs per year (estimates only, see FAQ ) They are perfect for a farm with kids and the beginner chicken keeper. Wyandotte chickens have a rose comb, a broad and flat comb characterized by its close-fitting, oval shape. Send us your chicken question and we will add it to our next publication. Silver Laced Wyandotte: Egg Production, Temperament and More When I come out the back door, they all come running to see what tasty morsel I have brought them. Their original name was the American Sebright, but this name was changed by the American Poultry Association when the breed was officially accepted into its ranks. Her fabulous fluffed-up feathers add an extra layer to her winter wardrobe, so shes happy to lay throughout the colder months. Your email address will not be published. This chicken makes an excellent pet and is good for eggs and/or meat. Theyll be bolder and nosier than young pullets. Wyandotte's are good layers of light to dark brown eggs averaging about 200 eggs/year. Also, make sure your Columbian Wyandotte chickens have about 8-10 inches of space on the perches. Cackle offers 7 different wyandotte varieties, with chicks, hatching eggs, pullets, and bantam birds available. Their calm nature makes them suitable for both rural and urban settings, provided local zoning regulations and space requirements are met. Wyandottes are the chicken gift that keeps on giving. Keeping your appropriate colors will require keeping separate lines. They consistently keep close to their young, ensuring the chicks well-being by protecting them from other members of the flock and teaching them to forage for food. Since 2016, the Wyandotte graduated from the priority list and at this time is not in danger of being lost forever.(Meyer Hatchery), Wyandotte chickens lay around 4 eggs a week. 1888: Gold Laced, White. Wyandottes are a heritage breed that originated right here in the USA. For showing purposes there are other well-known hybrid varieties including Blue Laced Red, Barred, Mille Fleur, and Lavender. Furthermore, Wyandotte chicken can be broody, this can be of use if youre trying to hatch your own eggs. Do make sure they have access to shade in the heat of the summer. Although these chickens are very docile and people friendly, you do need to supervise them around children, especially small ones. Best Chicken Hatcheries In Michigan - Chicks For Sale Balanced diet: Providing a well-balanced, protein-rich diet is crucial for maintaining a Wyandottes egg production. To prevent these infestations, maintain a clean and dry coop environment. While Wyandottes arent exactly lap chicken, they are still friendly to their owners. They'll lay at least 4 medium-large eggs every week for you, with lots of owners saying their ladies shed a shell almost every day! Some common indicators to look for: Wyandotte chickens are generally friendly; however, it is vital to monitor interactions among your flock to prevent aggression or bullying. Over time, other color varieties were developed and recognized, including: These recognized varieties demonstrate the versatility and adaptability of the Wyandotte breed. Im Jo. Bantam Wyandotte roosters weigh up to 30 ounces. As they grow older, their eggs will get larger and they will lay them less frequently, but they will continue to lay for a long time. It was a team effort by four fellow fowl fanatics who wanted to egg-sploit a gap in the US market for a heritage dual-purpose chicken. Chickens are omnivores and will eat just about everything from table scraps to insects to weeds to mice. Wyandotte Chickens: Breed Information, Care Guide, and More - BFF Blog The standard-sized Wyandottes are medium to large-sized birds. Since the Wyandotte breed is a cross of several breeds, they have not developed any genetic diseases yet. Wyandottes are fluffy and curvy, so when its hot, youll have a sweaty Betty on your hands. Although theyre a little late getting started on the chicken maturity scale, they make up for it as they lay all year round until at least 4 years of age and more likely 5 or 6. Wyandotte Chicken Guide | Chickens, Livestock - Rural Living The mature size of the bird depends on their sex. They tend to lay well in the winter compared to other chicken breeds. Now, lets crack on. Our lone Wynadotte roo was very friendly and social until he hit sexual maturity, then he became aggressive and mean and he could no longer stay on our farm. Busy Mom to two little girls, one soppy, Labrador Retriever and too many chickens to ever confess to (Im hoping the hubby has lost count). According to Rapid City Journal, a chicken is ready to harvest when its breast is full and round. Luckily, they are mostly disease-free. How about the Wyandotte! The mature size of the bird depends on their sex. Cackle Hatchery is our preferred and recommended hatchery. Im Nicole, founder of Heritage Acres Market and the Backyard Bounty Podcast. The Wyandotte chicken breed is one of the most prominent breeds of poultry in the United States. My name is Meredith, Im an artist, writer and teacher living in Knoxville, TN. This means they are a smart choice for people wanting a hen to lay eggs or a chicken to raise for meat. Tick. The Gold Laced Wyandotte was admitted to the standard in 1888 along with its much rarer sister - the white. It is believed that this breed was developed by crossbreeding several existing breeds, including the Hamburg, Cochin, and Brahma. Because they are so cluckin awesome! Fact: The most popular variety, and only the second variety to be recognised with the APA. However, if you are free ranging your hens, you can cut that down and just have about four square feet of space per chicken in the coop, so that they have a place to get out of the elements if they choose. This comb type is more resistant to frostbite than other comb types, making Wyandottes excellent for colder climates. Wyandottes are known as a dual purpose breed but we have not processed any of ours so cant speak to that aspect. This ordinance is outdated as backyard hens have become popular across the state as not only sources of fresh eggs but gentle pets for the entire family to enjoy. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. This makes them a recommended chicken if you live close to your neighbors or in an urban area. Wyandottes were originally called American Seabrights until they were accepted into the APA standard of perfection in 1883. Size: Hen (6lb) and Rooster (9lb) The Silver-Laced Wyandotte, the first variety of this breed, was first exhibited at the 1880 Chicago Worlds Fair. Fortunately, with proper care and management, these problems can be minimized or even prevented. Recently, the Wyandotte chickens have made enough of a revival to get taken out of the Livestock Conservancys priority list and are not considered endangered anymore. Wyandottes are brilliant for beginners! But really, we dont mind because they are a fantastic breed. Wyandotte Chicken - Breed Profile & Facts - LearnPoultry Love them but it's pronounced Why-en-dot. Salmon Faverolles Chicken Breed Are They Right For You? Roosters can grow much larger, weighing an average of 8 pounds. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. The Wyandotte chicken breed is a popular choice among poultry enthusiasts, known for its stunning appearance and excellent utility. The Wyandotte chicken breeds are all-American. Chicks: The body of a Barred Wyandotte chick is grey and white withbarred wings and possibly chests. They respond well to positive reinforcement, making them a desirable breed for those who want a more interactive and engaging chicken experience. Of course, there can be variations in any breed and you may find that you have a cranky hen, as well. Wyandotte Chicken Breed: Eggs, Variety, Temperament, Pictures Hens grow to be around six pounds, roosters grow to be around eight pounds. Dual purpose birds, such as Wyandottes, will consume more feed than a meat bird, but they are still an excellent choice for backyard flocks and especially homesteading. Fluffy bottoms can get a bit mucky, so youll need to keep your Wyandottes coop nice and clean. They're rounded, sturdy birds with broad breasts and slim legs. Family Owned & Operated Townline has been serving in Michigan as a hatchery since 1913. Fowl Fact: The first Silver Laced Wyandottes had black feathers with small patches of white in the center. Where I live, there is a family farm nearby that will butcher and process live birds for a very small price. They are not aggressive but not overly affectionate either. Columbian (1905) Buff (1893) Blue (1977) Golden Laced Wyandotte (1888) Silver Penciled (1902) Silver Laced (1883) Partridge (1893). An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Wyandottes can be broody, but mine mostly are not. Some broodies aren't good moms and will reject any chicks, so you have to watch them carefully. Wyandotte Chicken Breed: All You Need To Know If the weather is extremely warm, the eggs may hatch on the earlier side. To learn more about roosters, see this article. The organization does ask that any Wyandotte chicken with a full comb not be used as breeding stock. Silver Wyandottes will start laying anytime after 18 weeks or so. The breed was named after the Native American tribe called the Wyandot. The primary goal behind the creation of Wyandotte chickens was to achieve a dual-purpose bird with good meat and egg-laying traits. Clean and stress-free environment: Maintaining cleanliness and minimizing stress in the coop can improve overall health and egg production. A six pound bird will provide you with about four pounds of dressed carcass. Wyandottes make a uniform dozen, with each egg being similar in shade, shape, and size. Chickenpedia are at the top of the pecking order when it comes to easy-to-read, to-the-point, useful guidance on chicken keeping. Since the development of the Silver Lace, many other varieties of Wyandottes have also been bred.. If it's too warm, your Wyandotte hen might take a break from laying, to punish youI mean, to help her stay cool. Chicks: Yellow with little black speckles. They strut around the yard showing off their gorgeous coloring and look down on any bird that crosses their path with that classic chicken snark. Theyre exceptionally cold hardy, dual purpose, and make great mothers. Some hens may express these characteristics more strongly, while others might not be as pronounced. A full-size, or heavy, hen usually weighs in around six to seven pounds, while a full-size rooster weighs closer to eight or nine pounds. There are many mixes of these, and some of the newer, unofficial colors include barred and blue raced red, both striking color combinations. Chicks: Blue, black, or a combination of both. You can tell a lot about a chicken breed by where they come from and their breeding purpose. Best Fancy Chickens For You! Additionally, their heavy body weight and muscular build make them less prone to heat stress compared to lighter-weight breeds. Free Chicken Coop Plans also participates in affiliate programs with Clickbank, ShareASale, and other sites. Health: Chickens must be kept in good health and free of disease. 1. Mixed Flock Orpington, Wyandotte, and Polish? | BackYard Chickens They have a rose comb and if they have wattles theyre small and close to the face. Care and health for . On average, each hen will lay approximately 4-6 eggs each week. Tolerate the cold well and lay all year through, 9. Curiosity definitely gets the best of them, as they would hop onto my front porch and peck on the door to see if anyone would answer. Learn more about Nicole here, How To Start A Mealworm Farm: A Comprehensive Guide For Beginners, The ULTIMATE list of what chickens CAN and CANNOT eat, 7 Ingredients For The Perfect Chicken Dust Bath, COPYRIGHT 2022 HERITAGE ACRES MARKET LLC, On average, each hen will lay approximately. The Complete Silver Laced Wyandotte Care Guide - Chickens And More Wyandotte Chickens were created in the late 1800s, they were bred in the northern climates of Michigan & New York for the purpose of withstanding brutal winters. With a hefty size hens typically weigh around 6-7 pounds, and roosters around 8-9 pounds they can provide a reliable source of meat. This Beginners Guide to Raising Chickens (+Pro Tips) will help you ask yourself all the right questions, and it will also give you a realistic idea of what to expect as a chicken owner.