Originating from Rhode Island and Massachusetts in the 1840s, the Rhode Island Red breed is an iconic chicken world wide. Resulting from a cross between a Malay and a Brown Leghorn, the Rhode Island Red is an excellent layer and the hens are decidedly friendly. They are a lovely, hardy bird that requires little care and can be used as a dual-purpose bird.
Rhode Islands start laying at around 6 months and do occasionally go broody making good mothers. They can lay up to 280 light brown eggs per year.
The Rhode Island Red has gorgeous deep mahogany red/brown feathers with yellow legs and red wattles and single comb. They should have a brick shaped body.
An excellent addition to any flock, Rhode Island Reds are slightly more dominant, finding themselves slightly higher in the pecking order. They are docile and friendly with people and will consistently give a good clutch of nice size eggs. It is important to note that while the roosters can be aggressive, the hens are generally laid back and docile even when broody. They will also sit on eggs from other birds.
Rhode Islands are active foragers, where the roosters will call to his ladies when he finds something tasty for them to eat. They are excellent free rangers but also tolerate confinement well.
Livingseeds Hatchery currently supplies Rhode Island Reds.