Birchen Standard Old English

Birchen Standard Old English Chicken

Looking for a hardy, long-living hen to add to your free-range flock? The Birchen Standard Old English is an excellent choice! Known for its straight comb, striking black and green legs, and medium to high stance, this bird brings beauty and resilience to any flock. As one of 18 varieties of Standard Old English game fowl, it’s bred for longevity and health. Explore our selection of game fowl and order the Birchen Standard Old English to elevate your flock today!

Appearance:

• Feather Color: Dark glossy black body with white or silver feather tips on wings, tail and hackles (neck feathers). The birchen effect gives a striking iridescent look. The feathers shimmer in the light.
  
  
  
• Body Type: Compact and muscular, game bird heritage. Small but built for agility and quickness. Slim but robust with strong legs and well balanced frame to move quickly.
  
  
  
• Comb and Wattles: Single comb, red and upright. Not as large as some other breeds. Red wattles, small.
  
  
  
• Tail: Long sweeping tail carried upright. Dark almost black with lighter tips to match the feathered look.
  
  
  
• Legs and Toes: Yellow legs, 3 toes on each foot. Short but strong to support the active nature and quickness.
  
  
  

Temperament:

• Active and Spirited: True to its game bird heritage, the Birchen Standard Old English Chicken is very active and energetic. Always on the move, scratching and foraging. Agile and quick reflexes make them great foragers and love to have space to roam and express themselves.
  
  
  
• Independent and Bold: Birchen Standard Old English Chickens are independent and confident. Not particularly docile and can be dominant in a flock especially with other breeds. Bold and will stand their ground when necessary. Not aggressive but can be territorial.
  
  
  
• Free-Range: These chickens love free-range and will thrive in environments where they can roam and forage. They are natural foragers, searching for insects, seeds and other food in larger spaces. Active and agile, they are well suited for environments where they can move around freely and express themselves.
  
  
  
• Not for Small Flocks: Due to their spirited and sometimes dominant nature, the Birchen Standard Old English Chicken may not be the best for small passive flocks. Better suited for larger, more active flocks where they can coexist with other energetic breeds.
  
  

Egg Laying:

• Moderate Production: Like many Old English Game Chickens, the Birchen Standard Old English Chicken is not a prolific layer. They lay small white eggs, 2-3 per week. Not prolific but more prized for their beauty, agility and game bird traits than for egg laying.
  
  
  
• Egg Size and Quality: Small but good quality, smooth white shells. Not prolific but the eggs are fresh and tasty.
  
  

Health and Care:

• Hardy: Birchen Standard Old English Chickens are hardy birds that can adapt to any climate. But as with all chickens, they should be provided with shelter during extreme weather, especially in winter. Their small size and comb make them more susceptible to frostbite in very cold temperatures so extra care should be given in harsh weather.
  
  
  
• Low Maintenance: These chickens are low maintenance. Smooth feathers, no special grooming required. Regular checks for mites and lice should be done. As with all chickens, keep their environment clean and dry to prevent disease.
  
  
  
• Flight Risk: Due to their agility and small size, Birchen Standard Old English Chickens can fly short distances. They may require a secure, high fence or pen to prevent them from escaping or wandering off, especially in areas with predators.
  
  

Show and Ornamental Qualities:

• Poultry Shows: The Birchen Standard Old English Chicken is shown due to its beauty and elegance. The contrast between the dark body and light feather tips and its posture makes it a showstopper. Favorite among those who show for ornamental purposes.
  
  
• Ornamental Value: Beyond showing, Birchen Standard Old English Chickens are also ornamental. Their feather pattern and active and bold nature make them a beautiful addition to any backyard flock. Popular among those who want a pretty and lively bird in their collection.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is a Birchen Standard Old English?
A hardy game fowl with unique black and green legs, ideal for free-range flocks.

How long do Birchen Standard Old English chickens live?
They are bred for longevity, often living long, healthy lives.

Are Birchen Standard Old English good for free-range?
Yes, they thrive in free-range settings.

How many varieties of Standard Old English game fowl are there?
We offer 18 distinct varieties.

Where can I buy Birchen Standard Old English chickens?
You can order directly from our website!

Birchen Standard Old English Facts