subject: Looking At The Characteristics Of The Barnevelder Chicken [print this page] Looking At The Characteristics Of The Barnevelder Chicken
The Barnevelder Chicken originates from Holland and was first bred just prior to the beginning of World War I. With the unique brown color of its eggs, which were also of excellent quality, the breed became popular in other countries. In 1921, the chickens began to be exported. The fact that they were outstanding layers was another attraction.
The 'double laced' is a very popular variety, but they also come in black, partridge, and silver. The hen's plumage is predominantly dark brown with black double lacing. This is frequently named a 'double laced partridge'. Males have beautiful plumage with bursts of bronze, shimmering green, and violet. Some males have white and blue lacing.
The plumage of the male and female can be described as 'rich and tight'. They have yellow skin, red ear lobes, and single combs. They have a very upright stance with a broad breast. Barnevelders have short wings so they don't fly very competently.
Their fame was initially due to the unusual color of the eggs but, today, they are used for show purposes more than for their laying abilities. The color of the eggs is of little importance now because the birds' appearance is the center of focus. Eggs are lighter and Barnevelder layers don't produce the vast quantities as they did in their early history.
Having said this, they are still useful layers, especially during winter. With a quiet, amicable disposition, they behave well in the show ring and also serve as great utility birds. Medium-to-heavy in weight, the Barnevelder is a perfect all-purpose bird that produces a good supply of eggs and also yields a tasty carcass for the dinner table. They are robust and are useful foragers. If you don't want them to get fat, avoid keeping them cooped up. Allowing them to roam freely will avoid this.
Females and males are docile in temperament and love being around humans. They make good pets, particularly for children. In a short time, they can be domesticated and won't mind being handled, picked up, or stroked. Young ones might need to be socialized before becoming a genuine pet. Unlike other breeds, Barnevelders will even try and nurture a new baby in the human family.
They are laid-back and enjoy being with the family. They will follow an owner around just like a dog. Some people say that they even like to take on the role of a 'guard dog'. Hens brood their eggs and are outstanding mothers. The hen will take great care of her chicks when they are hatched. The rooster also plays his part in raising the offspring.
It takes a chick longer to feather-out than other breeds. Hens usually reach a weight of 6 pounds and males 8 pounds. To summarize, the Barnevelder Chicken is a multi-purpose utility bird that is great as a pet, a good layer, and good to eat. The average hen will lay approximately 180 to 200 eggs per year, some of which can weigh as much as 3 ounces. The droppings serve as an excellent grass fertilizer.
