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The Plymouth Rock chicken, often simply called "Plymouth Rock" or "Barred Rock," is an American breed of domestic chicken developed in the mid-19th century in Massachusetts. Known for its distinctive barred plumage and dual-purpose qualities, the Plymouth Rock quickly became a favorite among American farmers and homesteaders. The breed was first shown in Boston in 1849 and was admitted to the American Poultry Association's Standard of Perfection in 1874.
- Medium to large-sized birds
- Most common variety is barred (black and white striped), but other colors exist
- Single comb, red wattles and earlobes
- Yellow skin and legs
- Typically weigh around 7.5-9.5 pounds
- Long, broad back and full breast
- Alert and upright stance
BREED & ORIGIN
Plymouth Rock
&
Massachusetts, United States
LIFE EXPECTANCY
6-8 years
HEIGHT & WEIGHT
Height: 20-24 inches (51-61 cm)
&
Weight:Roosters: 9.5 lbs (4.3 kg)
Hens: 7.5 lbs (3.4 kg)
Chick (0-8 weeks)
Pullet/Cockerel (8-20 weeks)
Layer/Rooster (20+ weeks)
LOW
MEDIUM
HIGH
Temperament
Docile, friendly, adaptable
Activity Level
Moderate, good foragers
Climate Tolerance
Hardy in both cold and warm climates
Genetic Traits
Good egg production, meat quality
Egg Laying Capacity
Good; 200-280 eggs per year
Broodiness
Moderate tendency, good mothers
Feeding
A balanced layer feed is essential for maintaining their egg production. Supplement with calcium sources like oyster shells for strong eggshells. They are good foragers and will benefit from free-ranging opportunities.
Housing
Plymouth Rocks require standard chicken housing with good ventilation. A minimum of 4 square feet per bird inside the coop and 10 square feet per bird in the run is recommended. They adapt well to both free-range and confined settings.
Health
Plymouth Rocks are generally hardy and healthy. Regular health checks for common poultry issues like mites and lice are important. Their adaptability makes them resistant to many common chicken ailments.
Breeding Practices:
- When breeding Plymouth Rocks, select birds with desirable traits such as good egg production, proper body conformation, and typical barred pattern (for Barred variety). The incubation period for their eggs is about 21 days.
Raising Chicks:
- Plymouth Rock chicks are hardy and grow relatively quickly. Provide a warm brooder environment (starting at 95°F and gradually decreasing) until they're fully feathered at about 6-8 weeks. Offer chick starter feed and clean water. Introduce them gradually to the flock when they're big enough to hold their own.
Nutritional Needs:
- Plymouth Rocks require a balanced diet to support their egg production and maintain their size. Commercial layer feeds usually meet their needs. Supplement with grit for digestion and provide access to fresh greens when possible.
Plymouth Rocks have played a significant role in the American poultry industry. They were once the most popular dual-purpose chicken in the United States and contributed to the development of many other American breeds.
Culturally, the Plymouth Rock represents an important part of American agricultural heritage. Their hardiness and versatility made them a staple on farms across the country, and they continue to be popular in both small-scale and backyard settings.
Category |
Details |
|---|---|
Origin |
Massachusetts, United States |
Temperature |
Docile, friendly, adaptable |
Common Health Issues |
Generally healthy, no breed-specific issues |
Commercial Use |
Dual-purpose for both egg and meat production |
Backyard Use |
Popular for good egg production and friendly nature |
Breed Standards |
Admitted to American Standard of Perfection in 1874 |
Exhibition |
Judged on body type, barring pattern (for Barred variety), and overall condition |
Role in Culture |
Significant part of American agricultural history |
Population Status |
Common, though pure strains less frequent; not endangered |
Conservation Efforts |
The traditional non-industrial strains of the Rhode Island Red are listed as "watch" (medium conservation priority, between "recovering" and "threatened") by The Livestock Conservancy |
Breeding Practices |
Focus on maintaining dual-purpose traits and distinctive barred pattern |
Fertility Rates |
Generally good, but specific rates may vary |
Parasite Control |
Standard poultry parasite control measures apply |
Market Value |
Chicks typically cost $3-$5 each |
Cost of Raising |
Approximately $30-$40 per chicken per year, depending on feed costs and housing |
- Good egg production (200-280 eggs per year)
- Docile and friendly temperament
- Good dual-purpose breed (eggs and meat)
- Adaptable to various climates
- Excellent foragers
- May go broody, interrupting egg production
- Not as prolific in egg-laying as some specialized breeds
- Some varieties may be less common
Plymouth Rocks typically start laying eggs at around 18-22 weeks of age.