Rhode Island White Chicken

Rhode Island White Chicken

Originating in 1888, the rose comb variety of the Rhode Island White was officially recognized by the APA in 1922. The Chicken Coop Company specializes in offering the single comb Production type of this breed.

The Rhode Island White chicken is known for its broad, deep body with a horizontal stance and a tightly feathered, brick-like appearance. It features a broad, flat head and is an excellent winter egg layer, producing large, rich brown eggs. This breed is not only docile but also serves well as a dual-purpose fowl for both eggs and meat.

Additionally, the Rhode Island White Hen plays a key role in developing the Cinnamon Queen and Golden Comet breeds. Expect about 60% of these birds to have yellow legs, with the remaining 40% displaying a dirty or greenish leg color. Raising these friendly hens can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

For mating, a general ratio of 10 females to 1 male is recommended for birds aged 6 months to 2 years. When it comes to sleeping or roosting, this breed prefers a roost pole positioned 2-4 feet off the ground.

Health and Care:

• Hardy and Tough: Rhode Island Whites are hardy and resilient. They can handle cold weather due to their feathering but can also handle warm weather as long as they have shade and plenty of water.
  
  

• Disease Resistant: They are disease resistant and robust like their cousins the Rhode Island Reds. But they can get mites, lice and respiratory infections if not properly cared for. Regular cleaning of the coop, fresh water and good ventilation are a must to keep them healthy.
  
  

• Low Maintenance: Rhode Island Whites are easy to take care of. They do well on a balanced diet and thrive in free range and confined. As long as they have a clean dry place to sleep they require minimal attention and are very adaptable.
  
  
  

Egg Laying:

• Good Egg Production: Rhode Island Whites are excellent layers, 250-300 eggs per year. The eggs are large and brown makes them great for commercial and home egg production.
  
  

• Year Around Laying: Rhode Island Whites are year around layers. They will lay eggs even in winter though production will slow down due to shorter days. They are a consistent breed so you will have a steady supply of eggs throughout the year.
  
  

• Large Brown Eggs: The eggs they produce are large and brown. The eggs are highly prized for size and quality makes Rhode Island Whites a great choice for small or large flock.
  
  
  

Temperament:

• Calm and Gentle: Rhode Island Whites are friendly and docile. They are not aggressive making them great for families, beginners or those who want chickens that are easy to manage.
  
  

• Sociable: They are social birds and get along with other chickens. They are not dominant or aggressive making them perfect for mixed flock.
  
  

• Moderate Energy: They are active and love to roam but not flighty or nervous. They are content to roam free or stay in the coop makes them adaptable to free range and confined.
  
  

Appearance:

• Pure White: As the name suggests Rhode Island Whites have pure white feathers. Their feathers are smooth and dense providing them with protection from cold weather.
  
  

• Medium Size: Rhode Island Whites are medium sized chickens. Hens weigh around 6-7 pounds and roosters 8-9 pounds. They are compact and sturdy with a well built body making them good for meat and egg production.
  
  

• Single Comb and Wattles: Like most chickens they have a single comb that is medium size and upright. Their red wattles and earlobes add a pop of color to their white feathers making them look attractive.
  
  

• Muscular Body: Rhode Island Whites have a strong muscular body good for egg production and meat. Their body is sturdy making them good for dual purpose egg and meat production.

Are Rhode Island Whites a Rare Breed?
The Rhode Island White is classified as a threatened rare breed by The Livestock Conservancy. As of their latest census, the population has dwindled to fewer than 3,000 birds, and current numbers are even lower.

What Color Eggs Do Rhode Island Whites Lay?
Rhode Island Whites produce between 200 to 250+ large to jumbo-sized eggs annually. The eggs range in color from light brown to dark brown. They are particularly known for their ability to lay eggs throughout the winter months and do not usually go broody. Additionally, they are valued for their meat quality and adapt well to both hot and cold climates.

Do Rhode Island Chickens Lay Eggs?
Rhode Island Reds are prolific egg layers, producing about 5 to 7 eggs per week. In their first laying season, hens average around 310 eggs, with a reduction to approximately 220 eggs in the following season.

• Poultry Show Class:  Not applicable
• Weights: Hen–6 1/2 lbs
  
• Rooster—8 1/2 lbs
  
• Pullet—5 1/2 lbs
  
• Cockerel—–7 1/2 lbs
• Purpose and Type: Primary production, Egg Laying & Pet/Secondary meat source
• Egg Shell Color: Brown
• Egg Production: 220-280 eggs per year (estimates only)
• Egg Size: Large
• Temperament: Active
• Gender Accuracy: 80-85%
• Fertility Percentage: 65-80%
• Broody: Variable
• Mating Ratio: 10 Females to 1 Male
• Roost Height: 2 to 4 feet
• Country of Origin: United States, Rhode Island
• APA: Yes, Rosecomb recognized by the American Standard of Perfection in 1922.
• We offer only the single comb variety not APA.
• TLC: Yes, Watch Status, Considered a sustainable heritage chicken breed
• BREEDER FARM SOURCE: Poultry Breeding Farm has been developing our bloodline or strain of pure Rhode Island White since 1993.