LEGHORN

History: Leghorns originated in Italy and the white variety first reached Britain from America around 1870 and the brown followed a couple of years later. At that time they only weighed about 3½ lb each but the bodyweight was increased by crossing them with the Minorca and Malay breeds.

Characteristics: They are a very sprightly and alert breed. They have a wide body, narrowing slightly to the root of the tail. Their backs are long and flat, the breast is round, full and prominent. The wings are large and the tail is moderately full and carried at an angle of 45º from the line of the back. The head is fine with a single or rose comb and the face is smooth and fine. The legs are fairly long and free of feathers. They are a firm bird but with the feathers of silky texture. They are the very best egg layers of the pure breeds and are not prone to broodiness.

Colours: Black, blue, brown, buff, cuckoo, golden duckwing, silver duckwing, exchequer, mottled, partridge, pyle, white.

At The Garden Hen we keep the white variety which are pure white, free from straw tinge and are of a silky texture.

Why do we keep Leghorns at The Garden Hen? They are one of the most prolific egg layers.

Cockerel Hen

Eggs: White, 200 per annum

Classification: Light/soft feather

Weight: Male 3.40 kg (7½ lb), Female 2.50 kg (5½ lb)