The Welsummer chicken is a distinctive heritage breed developed in the village of Welsum in the Netherlands during the early 20th century. The breed was created from several local Dutch chickens, with influences believed to include breeds such as the Barnevelder, Rhode Island Red, Partridge Leghorn, and Cochin. Welsummers became well known for their rich, dark brown eggs and were officially recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1991.
Known for their active, intelligent, and generally friendly temperament, Welsummers are a great choice for backyard flocks, homesteads, and small farms. They are excellent foragers and enjoy having room to explore, though they also adapt well to a secure run. Welsummers are typically calm around people but can be more independent and alert than some heavier, more docile breeds.
Welsummer hens are dependable layers, producing approximately 250large, dark terracotta-brown eggs per year. Their eggs are especially admired for their deep coloring and occasional speckling, making them a favorite among customers looking to add variety to their egg basket.
Welsummers are also appreciated for their classic partridge coloring. Hens display warm reddish-brown feathers with darker markings, while roosters develop rich red, black, and green plumage. Their combination of attractive coloring, dependable egg production, hardiness, and strong foraging ability makes them a popular and practical addition to a well-rounded flock.
Egg Production: 250 per year (avg)
Eggs: Large - Dark Brown (often speckled)
Mature Weight: 5 - 6lbs
Breed Type: Heritage Dual Purpose
Breed Category: Specialty Breed
Temperament: Docile/Friendly
The Welsummer chicken is a distinctive heritage breed developed in the village of Welsum in the Netherlands during the early 20th century. The breed was created from several local Dutch chickens, with influences believed to include breeds such as the Barnevelder, Rhode Island Red, Partridge Leghorn, and Cochin. Welsummers became well known for their rich, dark brown eggs and were officially recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1991.
Known for their active, intelligent, and generally friendly temperament, Welsummers are a great choice for backyard flocks, homesteads, and small farms. They are excellent foragers and enjoy having room to explore, though they also adapt well to a secure run. Welsummers are typically calm around people but can be more independent and alert than some heavier, more docile breeds.
Welsummer hens are dependable layers, producing approximately 250large, dark terracotta-brown eggs per year. Their eggs are especially admired for their deep coloring and occasional speckling, making them a favorite among customers looking to add variety to their egg basket.
Welsummers are also appreciated for their classic partridge coloring. Hens display warm reddish-brown feathers with darker markings, while roosters develop rich red, black, and green plumage. Their combination of attractive coloring, dependable egg production, hardiness, and strong foraging ability makes them a popular and practical addition to a well-rounded flock.
Egg Production: 250 per year (avg)
Eggs: Large - Dark Brown (often speckled)
Mature Weight: 5 - 6lbs
Breed Type: Heritage Dual Purpose
Breed Category: Specialty Breed
Temperament: Docile/Friendly
