Rhode Island Red
One of the best known breeds, the RIR is a good layer of large brown eggs and as a dual purpose breed also can supply a fair-sized roaster. The hens will rarely go broody and can produce around 260 eggs per year. Developed in Rhode Island & Massachusetts, early flocks often had both single and rose combed individuals because of the influence of Malay blood. It was from the Malay that the Rhode Island Red got its deep color, strong constitution, and relatively hard feathers.
Rhode Island Red hens are generally very placid and easily tamed, BUT some strains of cocks can be quite aggressive. If more than one cockerel is kept, they are better in a free range environment where they have plenty of space.
Developed in Rhode Island in the 1830s, various breeds were used in their makeup, including Malays, Cochins and Brown Leghorns.
Class: American
Type: Large Fowl & Bantam
Size: Heavy ( 2.9-3.9kg)
Rarity: Common
Purpose: Dual
Recognized Varieties: Red
Egg Laying: Excellent (5+/wk)
Egg Color: Brown
Egg Size: Large to X-Large
Comb Type: Single Comb
Crested: No
Feathered Legs: No
Number of Toes: 4
Hardy In Winter: Yes
Bears Confinement: Bears confinement well
Especially Docile: Yes
Setter/Broody: On occasion
Personality: Generally easygoing
One of the best known breeds, the RIR is a good layer of large brown eggs and as a dual purpose breed also can supply a fair-sized roaster. The hens will rarely go broody and can produce around 260 eggs per year. Developed in Rhode Island & Massachusetts, early flocks often had both single and rose combed individuals because of the influence of Malay blood. It was from the Malay that the Rhode Island Red got its deep color, strong constitution, and relatively hard feathers.
Rhode Island Red hens are generally very placid and easily tamed, BUT some strains of cocks can be quite aggressive. If more than one cockerel is kept, they are better in a free range environment where they have plenty of space.
Developed in Rhode Island in the 1830s, various breeds were used in their makeup, including Malays, Cochins and Brown Leghorns.
Class: American
Type: Large Fowl & Bantam
Size: Heavy ( 2.9-3.9kg)
Rarity: Common
Purpose: Dual
Recognized Varieties: Red
Egg Laying: Excellent (5+/wk)
Egg Color: Brown
Egg Size: Large to X-Large
Comb Type: Single Comb
Crested: No
Feathered Legs: No
Number of Toes: 4
Hardy In Winter: Yes
Bears Confinement: Bears confinement well
Especially Docile: Yes
Setter/Broody: On occasion
Personality: Generally easygoing