Sussex Chicken

The Sussex chicken is a versatile, dual-purpose breed originating from the county of Sussex, England. Known for their calm temperament and good egg-laying abilities, Sussex chickens have been a favorite of farmers and backyard chicken keepers since the 19th century. The breed was developed for both meat and egg production and was first exhibited in 1845. The Sussex was admitted to the American Poultry Association's Standard of Perfection in 1914.

Physical Characteristics
  • Medium to large-sized birds
  • Come in several color varieties, including Speckled, Light, and Red
  • Single comb, red wattles and earlobes
  • White skin and legs
  • Typically weigh around 7-9 pounds
  • Rectangular body shape with a broad, flat back

BREED & ORIGIN

Sussex
&
Sussex County, England

LIFE EXPECTANCY

5-7 years

HEIGHT & WEIGHT

Height: 18-24 inches (46-61 cm)
&
Weight: Roosters: 9 lbs (4.1 kg)
Hens: 7 lbs (3.2 kg)

Egg-cellent in cold weather! They keep laying through winter while others take a break.
Life stages of a chicken

Chick (0-8 weeks)

Pullet/Cockerel (8-20 weeks)

Layer/Rooster (20+ weeks)

Breed Traits and Characteristics

LOW

MEDIUM

HIGH

Temperament

Calm, docile, friendly

Activity Level

Moderate, good foragers

Climate Tolerance

Adaptable to various climates

Genetic Traits

Good egg production, meat quality

Egg Laying Capacity

Good; 250-300 eggs per year

Broodiness

Moderate tendency, good mothers

What Are the Care and Maintenance Needs of Sussex?

Feeding

A balanced layer feed is essential for maintaining their egg production. Supplement with calcium sources like oyster shells for strong eggshells. They are excellent foragers and will benefit from free-ranging opportunities.

Housing

Sussex chickens require a spacious coop 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

Sussex chickens are generally hardy and healthy. Regular health checks for common poultry issues like mites and lice are important. Their docile nature makes them easy to handle for health checks and treatments.

How to Breed and Raise Sussex?

Breeding Practices:

  • When breeding Sussex, select birds with desirable traits such as good egg production, proper body conformation, and calm temperament. The incubation period for their eggs is about 21 days.

Raising Chicks:

  • Sussex chicks are relatively hardy. 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:

  • Sussex chickens 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.
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What is the Economic and Cultural Impact of Sussex?

Sussex chickens have played a significant role in the poultry industry due to their dual-purpose nature, combining good egg production with quality meat. They're popular in both commercial and backyard settings.

Culturally, the Sussex breed represents an important part of British poultry history and has contributed to the development of other breeds. Their adaptability and friendly nature have made them a favorite among small-scale farmers and homesteaders.

Category

Details

Origin

Sussex County, England

Temperature

Calm, docile, friendly

Common Health Issues

Generally healthy, but can be prone to obesity if overfed

Commercial Use

Dual-purpose for both egg and meat production

Backyard Use

Popular for good egg production and gentle nature

Breed Standards

Admitted to American Standard of Perfection in 1914

Exhibition

Judged on body type, color patterns, and overall condition

Role in Culture

Important part of British poultry history

Population Status

Common, not endangered

Conservation Efforts

Some color varieties may be subject to conservation efforts

Breeding Practices

Focus on maintaining dual-purpose traits and temperament

Fertility Rates

Generally good, but specific rates may vary

Parasite Control

Standard poultry parasite control measures apply

Market Value

Chicks typically cost $3-$6 each

Cost of Raising

Approximately $30-$40 per chicken per year, depending on feed costs and housing
PROs
  • Good egg production (250-300 eggs per year)
  • Calm and docile temperament
  • Good dual-purpose breed (eggs and meat)
  • Adaptable to various climates
  • Excellent foragers
CONS
  • Can be prone to obesity if overfed
  • May go broody, interrupting egg production
  • Some varieties may be harder to find
  • Not as prolific in egg-laying as some specialized breeds

Sussex chickens typically start laying eggs at around 20-24 weeks of age.