QUICK STATS:
Egg Production: 300 per year (avg)
Egg Color: White
Egg Size: Large
Mature Weight: 4.5 - 5lbs
Breed Type: Heritage Breed / Egg Layer
Temperament: Active / Energetic
BREED FACTS:
The White Leghorn is one of the most iconic and productive chicken breeds in the world, known for its incredible egg laying ability and energetic nature. Originating in Italy, Leghorns were first imported to the United States in the early 1800s and refined through selective breeding to enhance their efficiency and productivity.
The White Leghorn variety became especially prominent and remains the foundation for many modern commercial egg-laying lines.White Leghorns are active, alert, and hardy birds with a naturally curious disposition. They are excellent foragers that thrive in free-range environments but also perform well in more confined production systems. While not as docile as some heavier breeds, they are intelligent, resourceful, and easy to care for. Their light body weight and strong flight instinct help them avoid predators and manage well in a variety of climates.
When it comes to egg production, few breeds can compete. White Leghorns are exceptional layers of 280–320 large white eggs per year, often beginning to lay as early as 18–20 weeks of age. They are efficient eaters, converting feed into eggs with remarkable consistency, which makes them the industry standard for white egg production worldwide.
Because of their outstanding productivity, adaptability, and resilience, White Leghorns are one of the most popular and widely kept breeds across both commercial operations and small farms. Whether for large-scale egg production or a backyard flock, they offer unbeatable performance, making them a timeless favorite among poultry keepers.