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The Wyandotte chicken is an American breed developed in the 1870s in New York state. Named after the Native American Wyandot tribe, this breed is known for its docile temperament, hardy nature, and beautiful plumage. Wyandottes are dual-purpose birds, valued for both their meat and egg-laying abilities. The breed was admitted to the American Poultry Association's Standard of Perfection in 1883.
- Medium to large-sized birds
- Come in various color varieties, with Silver Laced being the original
- Rose comb, red wattles and earlobes
- Yellow skin and legs
- Typically weigh around 6.5-8.5 pounds
- Broad, deep body with a curved back
- Dense, fluffy feathering giving a rounded appearance
BREED & ORIGIN
Wyandotte
&
New York, United States
LIFE EXPECTANCY
6-8 years
HEIGHT & WEIGHT
Height: 18-22 inches (46-56 cm)
&
Weight: Roosters: 8.5 lbs (3.9 kg)Hens: 6.5 lbs (2.9 kg)
Chick (0-8 weeks)
Pullet/Cockerel (8-20 weeks)
Layer/Rooster (20+ weeks)
LOW
MEDIUM
HIGH
Temperament
Docile, friendly, calm
Activity Level
Moderate, good foragers
Climate Tolerance
Hardy in both cold and warm climates
Genetic Traits
Good egg production, meat quality, attractive plumage
Egg Laying Capacity
High; 250-300 eggs per year
Broodiness
Moderate tendency, good mothers
Feeding
A balanced layer feed is essential for maintaining their egg production and overall health. Supplement with calcium sources like oyster shells for strong eggshells. They are good foragers and will benefit from free-ranging opportunities.
Housing
Wyandottes 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
Wyandottes are generally hardy and healthy. Regular health checks for common poultry issues like mites and lice are important. Their dense feathering may require extra attention to prevent parasite infestations.
Breeding Practices:
- When breeding Wyandottes, select birds with desirable traits such as good egg production, proper body conformation, and typical color patterns for the specific variety. The incubation period for their eggs is about 21 days.
Raising Chicks:
- Wyandotte chicks are hardy and grow at a moderate rate. 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:
- Wyandottes 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.
Wyandottes have been popular in both commercial and backyard settings due to their dual-purpose nature and attractive appearance. They've contributed significantly to the poultry industry, particularly in the early 20th century.
Culturally, Wyandottes are often seen in poultry shows due to their beautiful plumage patterns. They represent an important part of American poultry history and continue to be popular among small-scale farmers and backyard chicken keepers.
Category |
Details |
|---|---|
Origin |
New York, United States |
Temperature |
Docile, friendly, calm |
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, friendly nature, and attractive appearance |
Breed Standards |
Admitted to American Standard of Perfection in 1883 |
Exhibition |
Judged on body type, color patterns, and overall condition |
Role in Culture |
Significant part of American 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 distinctive color patterns |
Fertility Rates |
Generally good, but specific rates may vary |
Parasite Control |
May require extra attention due to dense feathering |
Market Value |
Chicks typically cost $3-$6 each |
Cost of Raising |
Approximately $30-$40 per chicken per year, depending on feed costs and housing |
- Good egg production (200-240 eggs per year)
- Docile and friendly temperament
- Good dual-purpose breed (eggs and meat)
- Hardy in various climates
- Attractive plumage
- May go broody, interrupting egg production
- Not as prolific in egg-laying as some specialized breeds
- Some varieties may be less common
- Dense feathering may require extra parasite control
Wyandottes typically start laying eggs at around 18-20 weeks of age.