Lavender Orpington

Lavender Orpington Chicken

The Lavender Orpington chicken is a large, upright breed with a medium-sized comb and fluffy plumage, making them well-suited for colder climates. While not recognized by the APA, their rarity adds unique charm to any flock. They lay medium to large light brown eggs, though their true appeal lies in their gentle nature, making them ideal for families with children.

The lavender gene in these chickens ensures a consistent light slaty blue color across all offspring, unlike the blue gene, which can produce varying shades. This consistent coloring makes Lavender Orpingtons particularly striking and desirable.

Developed by William Cook in the 1800s in Orpington, England, these chickens are sustainable heritage breeds, laying around 175-200 lightly tinted, almost pink eggs per year. Their docile nature and beautiful appearance make them a top choice for backyard flocks.

Are Lavender Orpingtons hard to find?
Lavender Orpington bantams are indeed quite rare in the US, making them a special addition to any flock. However, due to their smaller size, typically weighing between 34 to 38 ounces, they are well-suited for chicken enthusiasts with limited space.

What are the benefits of keeping Lavender Orpingtons?
Lavender Orpingtons, with their origins in Britain, are renowned for their robust, broad bodies and soft, fluffy plumage. While they were originally bred for both meat and egg production, today they are often prized for their striking appearance and calm, friendly demeanor.

When do Orpingtons begin laying eggs?
Orpingtons, along with other slower-maturing breeds, typically start laying eggs between 5 to 6 months of age. This is similar to other breeds like Polish, Olive Eggers, and Ameraucanas.

Are Orpingtons known to be aggressive?
Buff Orpingtons are generally very gentle and are considered one of the most docile chicken breeds. They are an excellent choice for beginners due to their calm and friendly nature.

How friendly are Orpington chickens?
Orpingtons are among the friendliest chicken breeds you can find. They are calm, gentle, and easy to handle, even the roosters. Their large size and laid-back temperament make them ideal for those looking for a friendly and manageable backyard flock.

• Poultry Show Class: English Class
• Weights: Hen—–8 lbs
  
• Rooster——10 lbs
  
• Pullet—7 lbs
  
• Cockerel—-8 1/2 lbs
• Purpose: Dual  Egg Laying and meat; Exhibition
• Egg Shell Color: Brown
• Egg Production: 150+ eggs per year (estimates only)
• Egg Size: Medium
• Temperament: Docile
• Fertility Percentage: 65-80%
• Broody: Setter
• Mating Ratio: 5 Females to 1 Male
• Roost Height: 2 to 4 feet
• Country of Origin: England
• APA: No
• TLC: Graduated from priority list in 2016
• BREEDER FARM SOURCE: Poultry Breeding Farm has been developing our bloodline or strain of Lavender Orpington since 2017.