Last Updated on January 23, 2024 by Fumipets
Exploring the Rich Palette: A Glimpse into Brown Chicken Breeds
In the diverse and vibrant world of poultry, the spectrum of chicken breeds extends far beyond the traditional white-feathered varieties. Brown chicken breeds, distinguished by their warm and earthy plumage, add a touch of rustic charm to backyard flocks. These feathered companions not only contribute to the visual tapestry of poultry keeping but also bring unique characteristics and qualities that cater to both practicality and aesthetics.
Join us on a journey into the realm of brown chicken breeds, where the earthy hues of their feathers tell tales of heritage, resilience, and the joy they bring to enthusiasts and hobbyists alike. Whether you’re a seasoned poultry keeper or a novice embarking on your chicken-keeping adventure, the world of brown chicken breeds invites exploration and appreciation for these feathered marvels.
Brown Chicken Breeds
With their many patterns and colors, chickens must rank among the barnyard’s most adaptable animals. Breeders put up a lot of effort to create several chicken varieties for various uses. Some are raised for the production of meat, while others are raised for display, and the majority are raised for the production of eggs.
The personality of chickens are, in the opinion of many chicken owners, even more fascinating than their feathers. So how many options do you have when it comes to brown chicken breeds? The range that this neutral color spans may surprise you. Let’s have a look at these 33 chickens, which range in color from tan to dark chocolate.
The 33 Most Common Brown Chicken Breeds
1. ISA Brown
The Rhode Island Red and Whites and other chicken breeds, among others, were crossed to create the ISA Brown. They were developed exclusively for production, and are regarded as among the greatest egg-laying hens available. A hen may produce 300 or more eggs annually.
ISA Brown hens often behave well among humans and other farm animals. A well-behaved ISA may develop into a lap chicken who approaches you clucking to be held.
| Egg Production: | High |
| Egg Color: | Tan |
| Purpose: | Egg-laying |
| Brooding Potential: | Medium |
2. Rhode Island Red
The Rhode Island Reds are renowned egg-layers and among the most sought-after breeds. They are crisp and auburn in color. They are not difficult to locate since they are also some of the most prevalent. Due to their large output of 260 or more eggs annually, Rhode Island Reds are often used in crossbreeds.
Around the farm, Rhode Island Red chickens are often inquisitive and relaxed. The roosters, though, may be rather hostile. When you include a boy of this breed in the equation, err on the side of caution.
| Egg Production: | High |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Purpose: | Egg-laying |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
3. Buckeye
The only known breed of chicken bred by a woman is the Buckeye. Although they are merely average egg layers, these deep mahogany beauties are excellent foragers. These birds are kept for both meat and eggs depending on demands due to their average productivity.
Buckeyes are often relatively peaceful hens that don’t pick on their flock mates. They respect the hierarchy and go with the flow. Buckeyes are used to interacting with people. They may not be as social as some other breeds.
| Egg Production: | Medium |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Purpose: | Dual |
| Brooding Potential: | Medium |
4. Golden Comet
The Golden Comet is a chicken with a light brownish color that is renowned for its exceptional egg-laying ability. These women do the job well if you need a prize layer. Each year, they produce more than 330 eggs. The best option is an incubator since these chicks aren’t at all broody.
The Golden Comet is a curious bird that is highly gregarious. This particular kind of chicken could decide to follow you around the farm. They may not like being picked up, but they enjoy taking part in activities.
| Egg Production: | High |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Purpose: | Egg-laying |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
5. New Hampshire Chicken
A chicken with a light brownish tint known as the Golden Comet is recognized for its outstanding egg-laying prowess. If you need a prize layer, these ladies do the job well. They produce more than 330 eggs annually. Since these chicks aren’t in the least bit broody, an incubator is the best solution.
The Golden Comet is an inquisitive and social bird. It’s possible that this kind of chicken may choose to follow you around the farm. Even though they dislike being picked up, they like participating in activities.
| Egg Production: | Medium/High |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Purpose: | Dual |
| Brooding Potential: | Medium/High |
6. Barnevelder
Although not entirely brown, Barnevelder hens have a stunning color and pattern combination. Brown feathers with black lacing provide a highly three-dimensional appearance. They lay around 180 eggs a year, which is less than some other barnyard cluckers.
Although they are often among the flock’s quietest hens, barnevelders are very vigilant and active. They often get along well with their flock members and are friendly toward people.
| Egg Production: | Medium |
| Egg Color: | Light Brown |
| Purpose: | Dual |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
7. Lohmann Brown
Egg production was the only goal in mind when Lohmann Brown hens were developed. This crossbreed, which produces more than 320 eggs annually, was produced through the blending of White Rocks and Rhode Island Reds. These hens seldom get pregnant, therefore they won’t be eager to sit for eggs.
Due to its hardiness and docility, Lohmann’s are relatively simple to maintain. Children and huge flocks both benefit from their disposition.
| Egg Production: | High |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Purpose: | Egg-laying |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
8. Buff Brahma
The Buff Brahma is a large, unusually sized chicken with graceful feathery feet that is known as a gentle giant. They have feathers that range from pale to reddish brown and black lace around their necks. These birds, developed for meat because of their huge size, are mediocre egg producers.
The reputation of being very kind and laid back belongs to all Brahmas. Despite being relatively enormous in compared to other chickens, they seldom ever behave negatively against the other members of their flock.
| Egg Production: | Medium |
| Egg Color: | Tan |
| Purpose: | Dual |
| Brooding Potential: | High |
9. Sebright
One of the very first bantam chicken breeds in Britain is the Sebright. These women are all models, however. Gathering meat or eggs from a Sebright does not provide a significant reward. They do, however, lend charm to any flock.
Sebrights are very gregarious, talkative, and energetic. They also make excellent fliers. Males may be a little bit combative, as are most little bantams. But females are often quite adaptive and kind to their fellow flock members.
| Egg Production: | Low |
| Egg Color: | White |
| Purpose: | Ornamental |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
10. Naked Neck
Numerous colors, including buff, a pale yellowish-brown, are available in Naked Neck chickens. Because, well, look at it, we couldn’t leave this chicken off the list! Around their neck and vent, these hens are born without feathers. They struggle in cooler areas because they are so bare.
These hens are excellent for both run housing and free-ranging. They often exhibit extreme calm and are quite manageable. They are thus docile and contented animals in spite of their unique appearance.
| Egg Production: | Low/Medium |
| Egg Color: | Tan |
| Purpose: | Dual |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
11. Welsummer
Along their tailfeathers, this elegant Dutch breed has colors that transition from a copper-tone brown to dusty black. With a mixture of Barnevelders, Cochins, Wyandottes, and Rhode Island Reds, they have a very diverse ancestry. They produce 180 eggs year, which is a modest to moderate amount considering the size of the eggs they lay.
These hens aren’t prize layers, but their modest personalities make up for it. They are a delight to have in the flock because they get along well with their flockmates. They are also incredibly clever, so if you’re not cautious, they could just outwit you.
| Egg Production: | Low |
| Egg Color: | Reddish Brown |
| Purpose: | Ornamental |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
12. Easter Egger
Easter Eggers are available in a wide range of neutral tones, from cream to almost black. These hens contain a gene known as the “blue egg” gene, which produces a range of eggs with a subtly bluish tint, however they sometimes also produce greenish or even pink eggs. They lay between 150 and 200 eggs each year, making them moderate to heavy layers.
These resilient chicks are quite sociable. They’ll be your closest buddy and follow you around the yard, perhaps pleading with you for food.
| Egg Production: | Medium |
| Egg Color: | Blue |
| Purpose: | Dual |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
13. Cinnamon Queen
The color of Cinnamon Queen hens is a particularly stunning brown that ranges from auburn to tan. They are a hybrid between Silver Laced Wyandottes and Rhode Island Red Wyandottes. These hens are excellent layers, producing around 280 extra-large eggs a year.
These birds are affable and sociable around humans. They get along nicely with the other members of their flock, avoiding hostility or attitude.
| Egg Production: | High |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Purpose: | Egg-laying |
| Brooding Potential: | High |
14. Barbu D’uccle
The tiny, speckled Barbu D’uccle is a bantam breed of chicken, which is a smaller size. They don’t lay smaller-than-average eggs as often as the majority of full-size breeds. This breed, like many bantams, is mostly valued for its attractiveness rather than its actual value.
For observers, they would provide a ton of amusement and eye-catching appeal. Although a little feisty, they get along with most hens and humans.
| Egg Production: | Low/Medium |
| Egg Color: | Cream/Tinted |
| Purpose: | Ornamental |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
15. Belgian Antwerp D’anvers
Even though they lay more eggs than many other bantam breeds, these hens are often kept for decoration. They lay fewer eggs, around 250 of which are produced year. Additionally, considering how broody these hens are, births are undoubtedly probable.
The people of Antwerp, Belgium, are highly kind and nice. They are likewise fearless, but far more composed than most because to their bantam blood.
| Egg Production: | Medium |
| Egg Color: | Cream |
| Purpose: | Ornamental |
| Brooding Potential: | High |
16. Rosecomb Bantam
The roosters are even more lovely than the dusty mocha-colored Rosecomb bantams (but they are black). The chickens seldom produce little eggs, but they are amazing flyers. Be careful; else, you may not be able to coax them away from their new preferred perch.
These bantams are tough and very active. Even though rosecombs might be a little flighty around humans, they are sociable and can warm up to people.
| Egg Production: | Low |
| Egg Color: | White |
| Purpose: | Ornamental |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
17. Serama
Serama hens have unique markings that are covered in shades of brown ranging from beige to chocolate. Even varied feather textures, such as silky or frizzy sections, may be available. However, they are only visual candy. They are undoubtedly a mixtape of beauty. Seramas don’t lay a lot of eggs, nor are they broody.
Seramas are often a little flirtatious. So, if you offend them, take caution. They could just reprimand you temporarily or ignore you.
| Egg Production: | Low |
| Egg Color: | Cream |
| Purpose: | Ornamental |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
18. Cornish
Although white Cornish chickens are common, they may as sometimes become brown. The maximum number of eggs these birds can produce year is 180. These chickens are only raised for meat, as shown by their weight. The typical Cornish hen may weigh up to 12 pounds in total.
Unfortunately, if they are Cornish hens raised for meat, their average lifespan is just 42 days. They need to follow a strict diet in order to survive through that landmark because of how quickly they grow.
| Egg Production: | Low/Medium |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Purpose: | Meat |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
19. Derbyshire Redcap
Black, golden, and brown colors are mixed in the Derbyshire Redcap hen. Both meat and eggs are produced by these hens. Redcaps produce a total of 200 big eggs yearly.
Due to their independence and spirit, Derbyshire Redcaps perform best as free-ranging chickens. They don’t interact with others too much either since they would rather be by themselves, doing what they want. They’re not going to follow you around like a dog, human!
| Egg Production: | Medium |
| Egg Color: | White |
| Purpose: | Dual |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
20. Red Shaver
Golden brown in color, the gorgeous Red Shaver resembles its Golden Comet relatives greatly. These chickens are fantastic choices for both meat and eggs, producing an astounding 315 eggs annually. Therefore, having them in your flock is quite advantageous for the goals you have.
The flock’s Red Shavers are often the quietest chickens. They could even remain quiet and refrain from getting into trouble. They often are highly gregarious and irritable with others.
| Egg Production: | High |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Purpose: | Dual |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
21. Brabanter
This Dutch beauty with spots is a light brown color mashup. The breed that appears in art from the 17th century is really rather old. They have advanced so far because of their rich attractiveness, particularly the males, and the fact that they are decorative. Spiky head feathers are quite the hairstyle on roosters and hens.
They may seem to be ready to rock, yet they are really rather composed. They may even take pleasure in pet sessions if you manage them early.
| Egg Production: | Low/Medium |
| Egg Color: | White |
| Purpose: | Ornamental |
| Brooding Potential: | Medium |
22. Polish
The Polish chicken tops the list of outrageous hairstyles, wearing an afro that rivals any 70s trend. Polish chickens come in many different colors of color, many of them are brown. These hens were undoubtedly raised for show, yet despite that, they produce a respectable 200 medium-sized eggs annually.
These birds are said to be very kind and serene beings. They could be intrigued and follow you around the yard or wait for you to give them a food.
| Egg Production: | Medium |
| Egg Color: | White |
| Purpose: | Ornamental |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
23. Cochin
A fluffy little decorative cutie, the Cochin chicken. They are available in a variety of vibrant colors, including brown. Although they may not deposit many eggs each year, they are quite prone to become broody. Chicks are certainly probable with this breed because of their exceptional maternal instinct.
The temperaments of cochin chickens are also outstanding. Since many of them don’t mind being handled, they are often quite gentle and kind. That is particularly true if you touch them regularly while they are infants.
| Egg Production: | Low |
| Egg Color: | Light brown |
| Purpose: | Ornamental |
| Brooding Potential: | High |
24. Old English Game
Brown initially, transitioning to dark brown or black, is the elegant Old English Game bantam. It’s conceivable that they were first used in cockfighting, although this is only conjecture. Despite being little birds, they are now mostly utilized for meat since they are strong and energetic. They also make wonderful, fiercely protective moms. Therefore, these ladies are the best choice if you’re seeking for a broody hen.
Not many people are likely to befriend these chickens. They are often quite autonomous and fairly aggressive. They could like going on adventures, but they won’t want to spend much time with you.
| Egg Production: | Low |
| Egg Color: | Cream, tinted |
| Purpose: | Meat |
| Brooding Potential: | High |
25. Altsteirer
Interestingly delicious is the toasted Altsteirer chicken. They have a tuft of hair-like spikes on their heads and are reddish-brown in color. Altsteirers typically lay 180 eggs each year, which is less than some other species. A low likelihood of mothering exists for the breed since they also don’t get broody often.
In general, altsteirers are inquisitive and daring chickens. In terms of temperament, they are probably cool, calm, and collected.
| Egg Production: | Moderate/High |
| Egg Color: | Whitish-yellow |
| Purpose: | Dual |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
26. Speckled Sussex
The Speckled Sussex is a darling with white specks and polka dots on a brown background. If you’re searching for a flock that can serve two purposes, these chickens are a great option. They are equally fantastic at producing eggs or meat. Each year, the Brown Sussex hens lay 250 eggs, and they may or might not become pregnant.
The low-toned, endearing, and speckly Sussex is supposed to be. If you give them some watermelon, they could follow you around or engage with you.
| Egg Production: | High |
| Egg Color: | Speckled, red, light, brown |
| Purpose: | Dual |
| Brooding Potential: | Moderate |
27. Marsh Daisy
With colors including brown, buff, and wheaten, the Marsh Daisy is a straightforwardly lovely bird. The hens’ combs, which resemble the Marsh Daisy flower, give them their name. Their main function is egg production, but when fully grown, they also make good meat birds.
Marsh Daisies are often courageous and lively. The majority of their time will be spent expending energy. They won’t dislike being around people since they aren’t anxious hens.
| Egg Production: | Medium/High |
| Egg Color: | Tinted |
| Purpose: | Egg-laying |
| Brooding Potential: | High |
28. Orloff
Rich mahogany is one of the several feather options available for the Orloff. They may make you think of the late John Quincy Adams due to their intriguing mutton cut facial hair. They are predominantly meat birds since they don’t produce many eggs.
Orloffs often have temperaments that are quite laid back. They are often among the henhouse’s most tranquil inhabitants.
| Egg Production: | Low |
| Egg Color: | Light brown |
| Purpose: | Meat |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
29. Pavlovskaya
A very old and unusual breed of chicken from Russia is called the Pavlovskaya. They have a variety of colors, including various tones of brown. You should never utilize these birds for meat since they are so scarce. Nevertheless, due to their limited egg output, they will mostly be maintained as ornamental birds.
These chicks are often upbeat and animated. You may overlook the fact that they aren’t powerful layers because of their endearing personalities. They make up for any functional shortcomings with personality.
| Egg Production: | Low |
| Egg Color: | White |
| Purpose: | Ornamental |
| Brooding Potential: | High |
30. Rhodebar
The Rhodebar is a robust, large reddish-brown barred chicken with average egg quality. They are excellent for both egg laying and eating, so you may keep them. They have a high likelihood of becoming broody and deposit around 200 eggs annually.
Many claim that because of how peaceful and quiet these hens are, you could easily handle them if necessary. They are calm and purposeful, which makes many owners adore them.
| Egg Production: | Medium/High |
| Egg Color: | Tinted |
| Purpose: | Dual |
| Brooding Potential: | Moderate |
31. Cubalaya
Cuban chicken called Cubalaya is colorful and has several different shades of brown. In this breed, hens and roosters are equally stunning. They are perfect for both meat and eggs in addition to being attractive. These chickens produce an impressive 200 eggs on average per year.
Since these hens are excellent foragers, free-ranging environments are optimal for them. Although they prefer to follow you about the garden, they are a little flighty and don’t appreciate being touched. They might be described as a free-spirited breed of bird.
| Egg Production: | High |
| Egg Color: | Light brown |
| Purpose: | Dual |
| Brooding Potential: | High |
32. Swedish Flower
The largest and most adorable chicken in all of Sweden is the uncommon Swedish Flower. With up to 200 extra-large eggs each year, these females are exceptional laying chickens. They also offer an excellent supply of meat due to their size.
It’s a delight to have these charming females around the farm. Given their calming, loving nature, they are the perfect playmates for kids.
| Egg Production: | High |
| Egg Color: | Tinted |
| Purpose: | Dual |
| Brooding Potential: | Moderate |
33. Brown Leghorn
Brown Leghorn hens are excellent additions to your herd. They have brilliant red combs and a golden brown color. With an annual egg production of 300 or more, these ladies are exceptional egg layers. Although they produce a lot, they are in no way broody.
The Brown Leghorn is not a soft-spoken bird. They won’t have time to play about since they’ll be too busy foraging, exploring, and itching. They are definitely not a lap chicken since they are so frightened and flighty.
| Egg Production: | High |
| Egg Color: | White |
| Purpose: | Egg-laying |
| Brooding Potential: | Low |
Conclusion
You probably had no idea that brown chickens could vary so much in appearance, temperament, color, and ingenuity. When you think about how tremendously different each breed is, it’s remarkable. There are some really attractive, distinctive, and endearing women on the list. Have you discovered any new hatchery selections to add to your spring purchasing list?
Q&A on Brown Chicken Breeds
What defines brown chicken breeds, and how are they different from other varieties?
Brown chicken breeds are characterized by their warm-toned plumage, ranging from deep mahogany to light tan. This coloration sets them apart from traditional white-feathered chickens. The difference extends beyond aesthetics, as brown chicken breeds often showcase distinct personalities, hardiness, and egg-laying capabilities.
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Can you name some popular brown chicken breeds, and what are their unique traits?
Notable brown chicken breeds include the Rhode Island Red, New Hampshire, and Sussex. Rhode Island Reds are renowned for their robust nature and consistent egg production. New Hampshires impress with their dual-purpose qualities, excelling in both meat and egg production. Sussex chickens are celebrated for their friendly disposition and suitability for free-ranging.
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Are there specific considerations for caring for brown chicken breeds?
While general chicken care applies, brown chicken breeds may have specific needs. Adequate shelter, a balanced diet, and proper healthcare are crucial. Additionally, providing opportunities for free-ranging can enhance their well-being, as many brown breeds are naturally inclined to explore their surroundings.
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How do the egg-laying capabilities of brown chicken breeds compare to other varieties?
Brown chicken breeds are often lauded for their excellent egg-laying abilities. Rhode Island Reds, for instance, are known to produce large brown eggs consistently. While individual variations exist, many brown breeds contribute significantly to a steady and reliable egg supply for both backyard keepers and small-scale farmers.
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Can brown chicken breeds be suitable for first-time poultry keepers?
Absolutely! Many brown chicken breeds, such as the docile Sussex, can be well-suited for beginners. Their friendly nature, adaptability, and robust health make them excellent choices for those new to chicken keeping. As with any breed, providing proper care, nutrition, and a secure environment are essential for their overall well-being.
