Barnevelder Chicks

The Barnevelder is a breed of chicken that originated in the Netherlands, specifically from the town of Barneveld, which is where it gets its name. It’s known for its beautiful plumage and is often considered an ornamental chicken breed, although it also lays eggs.

Here are a few key points about the Barnevelder chicks:

1. Appearance:

• Feather Color: The most distinctive feature of Barnevelder chicks are its striking plumage. Barnevelders chicks often have a unique “double-laced” pattern, where the feathers are outlined with dark tips, giving them a laced appearance. They come in various colors, including gold, silver, and blue.
• Size: They are considered a medium-sized breed. Hens weigh about 4–5 pounds, and roosters weigh around 5–6 pounds.

2. Egg Production:

• Egg Color: Barnevelders chicks are known for laying medium-sized eggs with a light brown color.
• Egg Laying Frequency: They are decent layers, producing around 180–200 eggs per year, though they aren’t the most prolific layer compared to other breeds.

3. Temperament:

• Barnevelders chicks are typically calm and friendly. They are known to be good foragers and enjoy free-ranging. They tend to be fairly independent, but they can be a bit shy around humans, especially if not handled regularly from a young age.
• While they are not overly aggressive, they can be territorial in some cases.

4. Hardiness:

• They are quite hardy and can tolerate colder climates, making them well-suited for outdoor environments. However, they do appreciate some shelter to protect them from extreme weather.

5. Purpose:

• While originally bred for egg production, Barnevelders chicks are also bred for ornamental purposes because of their attractive plumage. Their calm and docile nature also makes them a good option for backyard flocks.

In short, Barnevelders chicks are a beautiful, hardy breed that can be both functional for egg production and aesthetically pleasing for those who appreciate unique, patterned chickens.

Barnevelder Chicks