RHODE ISLAND RED

History: An American breed, developed from Asiatic black-red fowls of Shanghai, Malay and Java types, bred on Rhode Island Province.

Characteristics: An alert and active breed with long, deep and broad bodies, oblong looking. The wings are of a good size and the tail is medium and carried fairly well back. The head is carried slightly forward with a single or rose comb and a smooth face. The legs are set well apart and the thighs are covered with feathers.

Plumage: For the hens, the neck hackle is red and the tail is greenish-black. The surface feathers are a rich, dark, even red. (Note: the ‘red’ is a deep chocolate red colour.)

Why do we keep Rhode Island Reds at The Garden Hen? Because they have been popular with chicken fanciers for generations.

Cockerel Hen

Eggs: Brown/light brown, 180 per annum

Classification: Heavy/soft feather

Weight: Male 3.85 kg (8½ lb), Female 2.95 kg (6½ lb)