Rhode Island Reds (Heritage breed) are held in such high esteem that they’re the official Rhode Island state bird. They were once hugely popular in America, though they declined right along with the small farmer. Today they’re making a comeback due to small flock owners.
They are the do-everything bird: they lay exceptionally well, they’re valued for their meat, they’re extremely cold hardy, and hardy in general.
BREED: Rhode Island Red
CLASS: American
VARIETIES: Red, White
TYPE: Large / Bantam
SIZE: Heavy (7-8 lbs)
COMB TYPE: Single, Rose
USES: Eggs, Meat
CLIMATE TOLERANCE: Hardy in winter, not especially heat hardy
EGG SIZE: Large / X-Large
SHELL COLOR: Brown
LAYING HABITS: Excellent (5/wk)
BROODY: No
PERSONALITY: Generally easygoing
RARITY: Common
PLACE OF ORIGIN: Rhode Island, USA
— Rosie our Rhode Island Red —
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| Rosie at 8-weeks-old At this age, she is the friendliest one. |
