Are you trying to find the finest hens to lay eggs for your flock? You are fortunate if so! Everything you need to know about the hens who produce the most eggs may be found in this article.
Chickens exist in several varieties with unique characteristics and the capacity to produce eggs, much like other domesticated birds and animals. As a result, some hens produce more eggs than others. To assist you in selecting the greatest breed of chicken that produces an abundance of fresh eggs, we have focused on this particular quality.
It might be satisfying to have some of the greatest egg-laying hens in your coop. The only thing left to do is research each breed of chicken and choose the ideal egg-laying breed for your flock. You should take into account the distinct traits, temperaments, and attributes of every breed of chicken. Don’t hesitate any longer! For the best egg-laying hens to maximize egg production in your backyard and farm, check out our list!
Top 10 Chicks for Laying Eggs
Every breed of chicken on our list produces an abundance of eggs. Your selected chicken breed’s egg yield and quality are determined by the diet and living circumstances you provide. Thus, take care of your hens and begin gathering eggs! The top egg-laying hens to think about are as follows:
1. Leghorn, White
Every year, between 280 and 320 eggs
more than four eggs a week
When it comes to laying eggs, White Leghorn is among the finest. You should be better familiar with this beautiful chicken breed’s traits if you like raising them. The Italian area of Tuscany is where the White Leghorn originates. In 1828, White Leghorn chickens were brought into the United States. They received recognition from the American Poultry Association (APA) in 1874. The White Leghorn is available in two versions: regular and bantam. This type of chicken is smart and enjoys going on foraging. If you wish to keep White Leghorn hens within your farm or backyard, you should have a high fence since they are excellent fliers. They grow bored rapidly due to their energetic temperament, so you have to keep things fresh. Since White Leghorn chickens are not good moms and seldom become broody, you will need an incubator if you want baby chicks. They are loud, energetic birds, so if you live in an urban area, they shouldn’t be your first option. The White Leghorn chicken breed is vulnerable to frostbite during the winter.
This kind of chicken, particularly in its third or fourth year, has an ideal egg production score. By the time their egg-laying career comes to an end, their extra-large, white-shelled eggs have become even bigger with age.
2. RI Red
Laying of eggs:
Every year, between 200 and 300 eggs
Five to six eggs per week
One of the top hens for producing eggs, the Rhode Island Red was approved by the American Poultry Association in 1904 and the British Poultry Standards in 1909. It may produce 200 to 300 eggs annually. The Rode Island Red has had the distinction of being Rode Island’s national bird since 1954. These hens are not only fantastic egg layers; they are also skilled foragers who are always looking for seeds and insects. Their sense of freedom can withstand being confined. When interacting with humans or other hens, Rode Island Reds exhibit calm and friendliness. Although the hens are not broody, it is difficult to outproduce them with a different breed of chicken. They lay medium to big, light brown eggs at first, but as time goes on, the size of the eggs increases. This charming kind of chicken may be noisy and forceful at the same time as being obedient, inquisitive, and sociable. The roosters may be violent, so you should supervise your kids while near them. The hens love having humans around. The hardiness of the Rode Island Red is widely recognized. They have mite or other ectoparasite problems, much like the other breeds of chickens. Check them often as a result.
The Rode Island Red egg is a great option if you want fresh eggs every day. A gorgeous red-brown chicken breed with superior laying hens will enhance your herd!
3. Plymouth Rock
Laying of eggs:
Every year, between 200 and 300 eggs
more than four eggs a week
One of the greatest chickens for producing eggs is the Plymouth Rock, which was first discovered in Massachusetts in 1849. Seven variants of this breed have been approved by the APA since it was first recognized in 1874. These hens are prized for their unusual plumage, which resembles black and white bars, in addition to being excellent egg layers that may lay for up to 10 years. The roosters and hens of Plymouth Rock vary somewhat from one another because of those bars. The black and white bars on the roosters are equal, while the black bars on the hens are somewhat broader than the white bars. This inquisitive type of chicken enjoys having freedom. Particularly during the first few years of their lives, Plymouth Rock chickens are excellent moms and egg layers. After the third year, there is a gradual decrease in the quantity of big brown eggs. Sweet, peaceful, and laid-back birds are Plymouth Rock hens and even roosters. When it comes to family and kids, they are very kind and trustworthy. They have a robust genetic pool, are robust and healthy, and live for 10 to 12 years.
Plymouth Rock chicken is what you need if you want excellent egg layers that are even better when shared with the family. Your kids will sometimes get to snuggle with a chicken, and you will get to eat fresh eggs every morning.
4. Sussex
Laying of eggs:
Every year, between 200 and 250 eggs
four to five eggs per week
One of the finest table poultry and egg-laying hens is the Sussex. This kind of chicken has been around for at least a few centuries and is well-known for its taste. The fascinating history of the Sussex goes all the way back to 43 A.D., when the Romans invaded Britain. The Sussex chickens took part in their inaugural poultry show at the London market in 1845. The APA recognized three breeds of Sussex chickens in 1912: the speckled, red, and light Sussex. Sussex chickens may be broody and make excellent moms and egg layers. If you want eggs all year long, they are a great option. In the winter, Sussex chickens even lay eggs. They thrive in captivity but need unrestricted room to move around. The Sussex hens are not very adept at taking off. Nevertheless, having some kind of defense against predators is a good idea. They are excellent for small farms or homesteads and get along well with different varieties of chickens. Sussex hens are simple to handle and have a pleasant disposition. While you toil in the garden, they would most likely follow you about. This type of tough chickens can withstand the winter, but in the summer they need cool water and shade.
This mild-mannered kind of chicken will provide you with delicious meat and fresh eggs for your table. Because of its minimal care requirements, the Sussex is highly suggested for novices.
5. Blends
Egg-laying capacity of Golden Comets:
Every year, between 250 and 300 eggs
In an effort to produce more eggs, chicken breeders have produced hybrids. These hybrids are among the greatest hens for producing eggs. These hybrids are a terrific way to develop an even better egg-laying chicken breed since they combine the best qualities of two already excellent egg-laying breeds. The Golden Comet comes in several variants, all of which are exceptional egg layers. Thanks to astute breeders, you may anticipate around 330 medium-to-large light brown eggs annually. The Golden Comets were originally created for commercial purposes, but now they are common in many small farms and backyards. Following World War II, the Black Star was established to boost egg production and aid with the food supply. Considering their little stature, Perl Star Leghorn chickens become excellent egg layers. A full egg basket in your house throughout the year is something that blue Plymouth Rock hens will add to your flock along with a pop of color and beauty.
You may acquire the greatest qualities from both parent kinds when you choose hybrid chicken breeds. As a result, you will have a breed with a stronger immune system, a more pleasant demeanor, and many eggs of exquisite colors.
6. Australia Lorp
Laying of eggs:
About 250 eggs annually
four to five eggs per week
The breed name of chickens explains it all! The term “Australorp” is an acronym for “Australian Orpington,” which refers to the English Orpington chickens that originated in Australia. One of the greatest breeds of hens for producing eggs are australorps, which can produce up to 300 eggs in a commercial environment and around 250 eggs in your garden or farm. It makes sense that these hens are regarded as among of the finest at producing eggs. Due to its dual function, the Australorp chicken also produces meat in addition to eggs. Three Australorp varieties—black, blue, and white—are recognized by the Australian Poultry Society. All of them are lovely, but the black Australorp stands out due to its stunning green sheen. This type of chicken has soft feathers and is huge and hefty. They can live in captivity, but they also like exploring and roaming freely. They are prone to obesity, so don’t keep them indoors for too long. Always be ready because this energetic kind of chicken will follow you around in search of rewards. The Australorp chickens consistently provide 250 medium-sized, light-brown eggs annually, are average broodiers, and make excellent moms. Australorp chickens live six to ten years and are robust and healthy. They are more prone to heatstroke than other hens, so just keep a watch out for parasites and make sure they have shade all day.
The Australorp might be a wonderful addition to your flock if you anticipate a lot of eggs and a laid-back, kind chicken.
7. Orpington
Every year, between 200 and 280 eggs
three to five eggs per week
One of the greatest chickens for producing eggs is the Orpington, which comes from Orpington, England. This breed, which has a calm and kind disposition, is another multipurpose breed on our list. Orpington chickens are excellent egg layers, and they will provide you three to five eggs per week. A beautiful, fluffy, kid-friendly addition to your flock are these hens. Thus, you will have a breed of chicken that is both beloved and prolific. Although Orpington hens prefer the feeder, they sometimes go freely in search of bugs, grass, and seeds. They merely need enough room to withstand being confined. They typically need 4 square feet of coop area, but you should have a “more is better” philosophy. Orpingtons are often reared as pets and get along well with children. They are renowned for being brooding in addition to being amazing moms. They are available in a wide range of colors, including buff, white, blue, brown, and black. The range of colors you possess is directly related to your capacity to lay eggs. Buffs, for instance, are among the best layers in the breed. Orpington hens like to move slowly and steadily and are generally not particularly lively. Aside from parasites, their health is strong and good. Make sure to provide them a nutritious diet that includes at least 20% protein.
If you’re looking for a breed that can serve several purposes and produce both delicious meat and eggs, you may want to look into the Orpington. The decorative attributes of Orpington are another item on the pro list. Thus, the Orpington provides meat, eggs, and good appearance!
8. sapphire gem
Laying of eggs:
About 290 eggs annually
Five to six eggs per week
One of the greatest hens for producing eggs, sapphire gems are a real jewel when it comes to egg production. Their feathers’ colors of blue and lavender give them an amazing appearance. Their name is derived from the string arrangement around their necks that resembles grey or gold jewels. These attractive egg layers have a very warm personality. Because Sapphire Gem chickens are a relatively new breed, the APA has not yet recognized them. They are a hybrid that was developed in the Check Republic from the Blue and Barred Plymouth Rocks. Medium-sized Sapphire Gems are productive hens who thrive in mixed flocks. All through the year, they produce big brown eggs. Sapphire gems are excellent foragers that are always alert to any threats. They are resilient to a variety of climatic situations, including very severe winters. As with other single-comb species, watch out that they don’t suffer from frostbite. This type of chicken is perfect for novices since it is amiable, well-mannered, peaceful, gentle, and likes to snuggle. Additionally, they are simple to nurture and quite autonomous. The Sapphire Gems are robust and healthy apart from the typical worms, parasites, and lice. They need a diet that is nutritious, well-balanced, and contains 18% to 24% protein.
Take into consideration the sapphire gem if you’re searching for a real jewel for your flock. They are unparalleled in their beauty, superb egg production, and calm disposition.
9. Wyandotte
About 200 eggs annually
three to four eggs per week
Born in the 1860s in upstate New York, this greatest egg-laying chicken breed is named after the Wyandotte Indian Nation. The Wyandotte breed was first available in gold and silver laced variations, and subsequently came in a wide range of colors. Despite their size, Wyandotte chickens are amiable and kind. They love scrounging about the yard for seeds and insects, and they are superb foragers. Wyandotte hens typically lay three to four medium-sized brown eggs per week. They have strong brooding tendencies and are excellent moms. Their strong look is matched by their excellent health. Other than the typical ectoparasites, this breed of chicken is not associated with any particular ailments.
Every farm or garden will be cheered up by the gorgeous diversity of patterns and colors that Wyandotte chickens come in. You have a winner, therefore, if you’re looking for a lovely, robust breed of chicken that produces eggs throughout the winter. Although they might be a little raucous, Wyandotte chickens are a peaceful and kid-friendly addition to any rural area.
10. Amerciana
Laying of eggs:
About 250 eggs annually
Every week, four eggs
The APA has identified seventeen different kinds of one of the top egg-laying hens. The Ameraucana is a multi-purpose breed that resembles a hawk. The range of hues that Ameraucana chickens available in only serves to increase their allure. They take pleasure in interacting with people and with their own kind. These hens are adept at avoiding predators and resilient to cold. If housed in dry coops, Ameraucana hens have little trouble surviving the winter months. They lay eggs a little later than other birds, but once they do, you will get weekly eggs that are a distinctive shade of blue. Although they are not often broody, Ameraucanas may sometimes become so. They live for seven to eight years without experiencing any serious health problems.
In addition to having the opportunity to grow fashionable blue eggs, raising Ameraucana hens will allow you to raise kind, sociable, and resilient chicks.
In summary
The top egg-laying hens on our list are listed with their key characteristics. They would make a great addition to any flock, laying between 200 and 330 eggs annually.
Examine a number of criteria before deciding on a single breed that has the finest egg-laying capabilities. You may begin with your backyard and farm and work your way up to the requirements of the breed. Verify that the breed of chicken you have selected will flourish on your farm and meet your needs and preferences.
