Wyandottes are Beautiful birds that come in a wide variety of colors. This American bred bird is incredibly popular all over the world , not only because they are so beautiful, but because they are productive layers and great backyard companions.
LIFESPAN
The Wyandotte has an average lifespan, ranging from about 6-12 years.
ORIGIN
The Wyandotte chicken is an American breed, originating from the state of New York. Their name comes from a Native American tribe, however whether they are actually associated in any way with the tribe is unknown.
Following this, different varieties of Wyandotte gradually made their way across different states of America . such as the Partridge, Silver Laced and Buff.
FUN FACTS
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Popular show breed around the world
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New color varieties of the Wyandotte are still being created by breeders around the globe - one of the most recent is the ‘Chocolate Partridge’
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Also comes in a bantam size.
PERSONALITY AND TEMPERAMENT
Wyandotte chickens are docile and friendly birds that make great backyard chickens. They love to free range and forage in an open area, however can also tolerate confinement so a mix of both run and enclosure time as well as backyard roaming time will keep them satisfied and thriving in their environment.
INCUBATING AND HATCHING
Wyandotte chickens are known for having strong broody tendencies and being reliable sitters on fertile eggs. Also, they make great mothers that will lovingly tend to their baby chicks with ease.
LAYING
Wyandotte chickens are decent egg layers, laying approximately 200 large brown eggs each year. What’s even better is that they generally lay through the winter months as well as summer, whereas other breeds tend to cease egg production.
APPERANCE
The Wyandotte is a heavy, sturdy looking breed (hence why its a popular dual purpose breed), weighing in at 2.7-3.8kgs.
The Wyandotte comes in a wide range of beautiful color varieties (recognized by various Standard Associations across the world) that were developed as it spread across America - from Columbian, to Buff, to Partridge...the list goes on! They also have bright red combs and pale coloured legs.
The laced varieties are particularly striking, and some of the most popular variations of the region. A popular and stunning variety is the blue laced wyandotte which has unusual blue/grey laced feathers. Many keepers would agree that blue laced Wyandottes are one of the most photogenic chooks out there! You may that their blue laced exterior means they also lay blue eggs- sadly not! They actually lay large brown eggs.
CARE
Wyandottes are generally quite self sufficient birds. Their particularly feathery and fluffy behind can be a problem, as droppings occasionally causes a mess - so if this becomes a problem, a quick trim of the feathers should fix it right up.
Fresh water and nutritious feed should always be available to them, as should a safe and secure chicken coop where they can roost and lay their eggs.
HEALTH ISSUES
Wyandottes don’t have any health issues particular to their breed, and their health should be treated as well as any average chicken. Regular worming is great for keeping parasites at bay, as well as vaccinations if necessary.
HARDINESS
The Wyandotte is exceptionally hardy in cold winter conditions. This is due to their heavy weight and feathering. Therefore, you shouldn’t have too much of a problem if it gets a bit nippy!
WHY WE LOVE THEM!
Wyandottes are spectacular, hardy birds that supply us with great backyard companionship and fresh eggs all year round. There are so many colour varieties to choose from, and all are visually striking - we wish we could have one of every color!
