White Leghorn
The Chicken Coop Company
White Leghorn
White Leghorns are exceptional layers of white eggs, producing an average of 280 per year, with some reaching as many as 300–320. This breed, which originated in Italy, Denmark, and England, was recognized by the American Standard of Perfection in 1874. White Leghorns are athletic, hardy, and non-broody, laying large to extra-large white eggs. They have an excellent feed-to-egg conversion ratio, requiring only about 125 grams of feed per day. This breed is ideal for free-range chicken farming or organic free-range egg production.
Leghorns are not prone to broodiness, making them well-suited for consistent egg production. As a light breed, they mature quickly but are not considered suitable for meat production. They are active, efficient foragers, making them excellent free-range chickens with good predator avoidance skills. However, the white variety of Leghorns might be more visible to predators. These chickens typically avoid human contact and are known for being nervous and flighty. The White Leghorn is one of the many excellent chicken breeds for egg production available from The Chicken Coop Company.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are White Leghorns a good choice for chickens?
White Leghorns are a well-regarded breed around the globe, celebrated for their prolific egg production and striking white plumage. They are robust and excel at finding their own food. However, they might not be the best choice if you're looking for a pet, as they tend to be less sociable and don't particularly enjoy being handled.
How many eggs can White Leghorns produce?
White Leghorn hens are known for their impressive egg-laying capabilities, producing up to 300 medium-sized white eggs annually. Their high productivity has made them a popular choice for breeding efficient egg-laying hybrids in commercial farming.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of Leghorn chickens?
Leghorns are dynamic and proficient foragers, making them ideal for those raising chickens in their backyard. They are also known for their swift growth and light weight. However, their light build makes them unsuitable for meat production. Additionally, they can be skittish and prefer to avoid human interaction, making them less ideal for those seeking a more affectionate chicken.
How quickly do White Leghorns grow?
White Leghorns are known for their rapid growth, reaching full maturity in under a year. Their high energy and sensitivity to changes in their environment make them responsive and adaptable, which is advantageous for both research and practical applications in poultry farming.
White Leghorn Facts
- Poultry Show Class: Mediterranean Class
- Weights: Hen—–4 1/2 lbs
- Rooster——6 lbs
- Pullet—4 lbs
- Cockerel—-5 lbs
- Purpose and Type: Egg Laying; Production
- Egg Shell Color: White
- Egg Production: 220-300 eggs per year (estimates only)
- Egg Size: Large to Extra Large
- Temperament: Very Active
- Gender Accuracy: 80-85%
- Fertility Percentage: 65-80%
- Broody: Non Setter
- Mating Ratio: 12 Females to 1 Male
- Roost Height: 4 to 8 feet
- Country of Origin: Italy
- APA: Yes, Recognized by the Standard of Perfection in 1874.
- TLC: Recovering, Considered a sustainable heritage chicken breed
- BREEDER FARM SOURCE: Poultry Breeding Farm has been developing our bloodline or strain of pure White Leghorn since 1936.