Hybrid or Pure Breed Chickens, Introduction- by "Foxy"

Firstly congratulations on deciding to take the plunge and buy a few chickens! They will give you hours of entertainment -sometimes can be frustrating, particularly that first night trying to persuade your precious birds into their henhouse for the first time! One thing for sure, you will never forget the sheer pleasure you feel when they give you your first egg!

These articles are to give you a flavour of some the vast array of beautiful chickens available -their nature, egg laying abilities or even table qualities. Their suitability for children, or perhaps something just a bit different? Maybe you would like to have a few birds for showing.

Firstly lets have a look at what you may already be puzzling over -a hybrid or a pure bred? What is the difference?

Hybrid Chickens

Basically a hybrid chicken is the result of the rising commercial demand for eggs (and meat) in the early 50's. In order to respond to the huge demand for eggs the birds needed to be able to reliably produce in the region of 300+eggs a year.

They also needed to convert food into eggs as economically as possible. This growth in demand also coincided with the development of the "battery cage" system.

Hybrid chickens are discussed in more detail here: Hybrid Chickens

Pure Breeds Chickens

Well in terms of choice in plumage, size, personality the world is your oyster! There are some truly fabulous and glamorous birds in all shapes and sizes out there so the choice can be very confusing.

Essentially some pure breeds have been around for centuries, or even have royal connections.

Pure breed chickens are discussed in more detail here: Pure Breed Chickens

About the Author & Article

This article was written by chicken keeping forum member, Foxy, and originally appeared in the Poultry Information section. Members exchange help and information on keeping poultry as well as just chatting about chickens and other livestock. Foxy's web site can be found here: Beanwood Poultry

Other Articles & Resources

• Hybrid Chickens
• Pure Breed Chickens