Living on a homestead has many benefits, including raising chickens that contribute to farm fresh food on the table. With so many options to choose from, it can be a tough decision, and that’s why I have broken it down for you. Here you will find information on the best dual-purpose chickens for beginners.
Through experience, I’ve learned that rainbow layers like Easter Eggers, Silkies, Polish, and Bantam chickens make a poor choice if you’re looking for a substantial meat bird. While their colorful eggs may be beautiful, their small size means they’re not the most efficient meat producers. For a homestead, you’ll want a hearty bird that lays consistently and can also provide meat when needed. If you’re looking to grow your flock, consider heritage breeds to ensure healthy genetics for breeding.
Here are some chicken’s you should consider:
1. Delaware
Delaware chickens are an excellent choice for beginners. Originally bred in the United States, these birds are hardy, easy to care for, and fast-growing. They are one of the alphas in the coop keep this in mind before pairing them with a sweeter bird like silkies. If you need a bird that forages and a roo that can stand up to a hawk to protect his ladies this is the one for you.
- Egg Production: Approximately 4 large brown eggs per week (around 200 per year).
- Maturity Age: Around 18-20 weeks.
- Feed Requirements: Roughly 4-6 pounds of feed per week per bird.
- Temperament: Friendly and calm, making them great for families with children.
2. Orpingtons
Known for their fluffy feathers and docile nature, Orpingtons are a homestead favorite. These dual-purpose birds are efficient layers and provide excellent meat. These birds are the sweetest and have great personalities.
- Egg Production: 3-4 medium to large brown eggs per week (about 150-200 per year).
- Maturity Age: Around 22-24 weeks.
- Feed Requirements: Around 5-7 pounds of feed per week per bird.
- Temperament: Extremely friendly and easy to handle.
3. Cornish Cross
While technically not a heritage breed, Cornish Cross chickens are incredibly popular for meat production. They grow faster than any other breed, making them an efficient choice for a homestead looking to raise meat birds.
- Egg Production: Low, as they are primarily bred for meat.
- Maturity Age: Ready for processing at just 8-10 weeks.
- Feed Requirements: Approximately 10 pounds of feed per bird by maturity.
- Temperament: Calm but less active due to their rapid growth.
4. Jersey Giant
If you’re looking for a big bird, the Jersey Giant is the way to go. These massive chickens are slow-growing but produce a lot of meat.
- Egg Production: 3 large brown eggs per week (roughly 150 per year).
- Maturity Age: Around 24-28 weeks.
- Feed Requirements: Approximately 6-8 pounds of feed per week per bird.
- Temperament: Gentle and good-natured.
5. Plymouth Rock (Barred Rock)
Plymouth Rocks are one of the most popular dual-purpose breeds due to their excellent egg production and good meat quality. They are also beautiful with their black-and-white barred feathers. Not a large bird but is resilient and hardy to add in a backyard flock.
- Egg Production: 4 large brown eggs per week (about 200 per year).
- Maturity Age: Around 18-20 weeks.
- Feed Requirements: Around 4-6 pounds of feed per week per bird.
- Temperament: Friendly and adaptable.
6. Australorp
Australorps are renowned for their incredible egg production and make a wonderful addition to any homestead. These birds are also hardy and well-suited for colder climates.
- Egg Production: 5 large brown eggs per week (up to 250 per year).
- Maturity Age: Around 22-24 weeks.
- Feed Requirements: About 5-7 pounds of feed per week per bird.
- Temperament: Calm and easygoing.
7. Sussex
Sussex chickens are another excellent choice for dual-purpose homesteaders. They’re reliable layers and grow quickly for meat production.
- Egg Production: 4-5 large brown or cream-colored eggs per week (about 240 per year).
- Maturity Age: Around 20-22 weeks.
- Feed Requirements: Around 5-6 pounds of feed per week per bird.
- Temperament: Curious and friendly.
Choosing the Right Breed for Your Homestead
When deciding on the best dual-purpose chicken for your homestead, consider your priorities. Are you looking for a fast-growing bird for meat? Or do you need consistent egg production year-round? For most beginners, starting with a mix of breeds like Delaware, Orpingtons, or Plymouth Rocks will give you the best of both worlds.
Raising dual-purpose chickens is not only practical but also incredibly rewarding. You’ll enjoy fresh eggs in the morning and, when the time comes, wholesome meat for the table. Plus, these birds bring so much personality and joy to your homestead.
Start your flock with one or more of these fantastic breeds. Your homestead journey just got a lot more exciting!
Please check out
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Linnea