BUY Welsummer Chicken

History and Origin of the Welsummer Chicken

BUY Welsummer Chicken was developed in the early 20th century in the village of BUY Welsummer Chicken in the Netherlands. Breeders aimed to produce a bird that combined beauty with utility. The breed is a result of crossing several birds including Barnevelders, Rhode Island Reds, and Leghorns. Welsummers gained international attention for their attractive dark brown eggs and were standardized in the 1920s.

Physical Characteristics

BUY Welsummer Chicken s are medium-sized chickens with a distinctive appearance:

Plumage: Rich partridge coloring with intricate penciling.

Comb: Single, bright red comb.

Wattles and Earlobes: Red and moderately sized.

Legs: Yellow and free of feathers.

Weight: Roosters average 6–7 lbs; hens 5–6 lbs.

Their upright posture and vivid plumage make them standout birds in any flock.

Temperament and Behavior

Welsummers are generally calm, intelligent, and friendly. They are good foragers and enjoy free-ranging. This breed is:

Kid-friendly and manageable for beginners.

Neither overly aggressive nor shy.

Adaptable to confinement but thrives when allowed to roam.

 Egg Production

Welsummers are celebrated for their beautiful, terra-cotta colored eggs. On average, a hen lays:

180–250 eggs per year

Medium to large size

Rich, brown shells with speckling

They begin laying at around 20–24 weeks and maintain consistent production.

 Meat Quality

As a dual-purpose breed, Welsummers also provide decent meat:

Mild flavor

Firm texture

Suitable for small-scale meat production

Ideal Living Conditions

Welsummers adapt to both warm and cold climates but prefer well-ventilated coops. Key requirements include:

Coop size: At least 4 square feet per bird inside the coop.

Run size: Minimum 8–10 square feet per bird outside.

Bedding: Straw, pine shavings, or sand.

They require protection from predators and secure perches for roosting.

 Feeding and Nutrition

Like all chickens, Welsummers thrive on a balanced diet:

Starter feed for chicks

Layer feed with 16–18% protein for adults

Calcium supplements (e.g., oyster shell)

Grit for digestion

Fresh fruits, vegetables, and grains as treats

Free-range Welsummers supplement their diet by foraging for insects and plants.

Health and Disease Management

Welsummers are generally hardy but still require basic health care:

Vaccinations for Marek’s and Newcastle disease

Parasite control: Mites, lice, and worms

Clean environment to prevent respiratory issues

Regular health checks

Breeding Welsummer Chickens

Selective breeding helps maintain egg color and temperament. For breeding:

Choose birds with vivid plumage and dark egg genes

Use one rooster for every 8–10 hens

Incubate eggs or let broody hens hatch them naturally

Advantages of Raising Welsummer Chickens

Beautiful egg color

Low maintenance

Cold and heat hardy

Great foragers

Good with children and beginners

Welsummer Chickens vs. Other Breeds

Compared to Rhode Island Reds:

Slightly less prolific egg layers

Calmer demeanor

Compared to Marans:

Lighter egg color but more consistent layers

Easier to manage

Best Practices for Backyard Flock Integration

Quarantine new birds for 30 days

Introduce slowly via a barrier method

Provide enough feeders and space to reduce aggression

Welsummers mix well with calm breeds like Australorps and Orpingtons.

Cost of Raising Welsummers

Chicks: $3–$6 each

Starter supplies: $100–$200

Monthly feed costs: $10–$20 per bird

Initial investment is moderate, but they offer long-term value through eggs and companionship.

Buyer’s Guide: Where to Get Welsummer Chickens

Online hatcheries (Meyer Hatchery, Cackle Hatchery)

Local farm supply stores

Poultry shows and breeders

Backyard chicken forums

Ensure you buy from reputable sources to get purebred, healthy chicks.

Final Thoughts

Welsummer chickens are a balanced choice for those seeking both beauty and utility. With their rich egg color, gentle temperament, and adaptable nature, they make excellent additions to flocks of all sizes. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced poultry keeper, the Welsummer is a breed worth investing in.