Brown Egg Laying Chickens – Baby Chicks

When you think of a sunny farm, you might imagine chickens clucking and feathers rustling. But have you ever wondered why brown egg laying chickens are important and interesting? These birds are not just for laying eggs; they have a rich history and unique genetics and appeal to both farmers and city dwellers who want backyard coops.

As more people embrace sustainable living and organic farming, brown egg-laying chickens have become popular. Their lively personalities and special eggs make them great pets and useful additions to your meals.

In this article, we will explore the world of these amazing chickens, covering their origins, different breeds, and tips for raising healthy chicks that will lay brown eggs. Join us as we discover the wonderful world of brown egg-laying chickens!

Unraveling the Brown Egg Phenomenon

The debate between brown and white eggs has been going on for a long time. People argue about which is better, but the truth is the color of an egg doesn’t affect its taste or nutrition. The only difference between brown and white eggs is the type of hen that lays them.

Some studies show that there is hardly any distinction in taste or quality between the two. The fuss about brown eggs seems to be about how they are perceived and marketed.

Brown eggs are often seen as more natural or organic, making people think they are healthier or more ethical. This misunderstanding has caused brown eggs to be more expensive than white eggs in many stores. But in reality, an egg is an egg, no matter its colour.

So, when choosing between brown and white eggs, remember that what’s inside is what really matters, not the color.

17 Best Brown Egg Laying Chickens

Get to know the 17 top brown egg-laying chickens to add to your backyard coop. Enjoy a constant supply of nutritious eggs!

1. Australorp Chicken

Australorp chickens are known for laying lots of brown eggs. People like these eggs because they taste good and are healthy. Because of this, these chickens are different from other breeds. They are popular for people who want eggs in their backyard.

Australorps are also friendly and easy to handle. They are calm and good with kids. They are a good choice for people who are new to raising chickens and want a bird that is easy to take care of.

2. Barnevelder Chicken

The Barnevelder chicken is popular for its beautiful looks and ability to lay many eggs. These dark brown eggs are not only nice to look at but also very nutritious. One cool thing about Barnevelders is their special feather pattern, which makes them stand out. They are known for being friendly and calm, making them a good choice for a backyard flock.

Barnevelders are tough birds that can handle different weather conditions, making them a good option for new chicken owners.

3. Brahma Chicken

The Brahma Chicken is known for its large size, striking appearance, and ability to lay lots of brown eggs. People who raise chickens at home or on a small farm like them because they lay eggs regularly, and the eggs look nice. Besides being good at laying eggs, Brahma Chickens are also friendly and easy to take care of. They have a unique look with feathered feet and special coloring, which makes them stand out in a group of chickens.

Brahma Chicken is a popular choice for people who want chickens that are beautiful, productive, and easy to handle.

4. Buckeye Chicken

The Buckeye Chicken is a breed from the United States known for its beautiful deep mahogany color and friendly nature. It has shiny feathers and is good at laying brown eggs. Mrs. Nettie Metcalf created the breed in the late 19th century. What makes the Buckeye special is its toughness and ability to take care of itself.

They are great at finding insects, which helps with pest control on farms. They can adapt to different climates and are suitable for small or large farms. The Buckeye Chicken is popular among poultry fans who want a unique and useful bird in their flock.

5. Delaware Chicken

The Delaware chicken is a popular breed known for its classic look and good egg-laying abilities. It has white feathers and red combs, making it both pretty and productive. Its big brown eggs are tasty and have strong shells.

Delawares are special because they are good at laying eggs and being used for meat. Their meat is tender and delicious, making them a good choice for people who want to raise their food.

They are also friendly and calm, which makes them great for backyard flocks or small farms. Delawares can live in different climates and are easy to take care of, so they are a good choice for both new and experienced chicken owners.

6. Dominique Chicken

Dominique chickens are good at laying eggs and providing meat. They have a long history in America since colonial times. These birds are tough and can find food easily in different climates, which is why many small farmers like them. Dominiques were one of the first chicken breeds recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1874.

Dominique hens have a unique black-and-white striped look with a red comb. Although they are smaller than modern breeds, Dominique hens lay big brown eggs with strong shells regularly. These friendly birds are easy to care for and are a great choice for backyard or farm life.

7. Jersey Giant Chicken

The Jersey Giant chicken is a big and friendly bird popular for its large size and calm demeanor. It is known for laying plenty of big brown eggs that taste great and are good for you. The breed has a long history in American farming, starting in New Jersey in the late 1800s.

Jersey Giants are valued for both their meat and eggs. They are still popular today for their great qualities and ability to thrive. Whether you want a special chicken for your flock or enjoy fresh eggs, the Jersey Giant is a great choice.

8. Marans Chicken

Maran chickens are famous for their dark chocolate-coloured eggs and delicious taste. They were bred in a French town called Marans and are loved by poultry fans worldwide for their strong build and friendly nature. The deep color of their eggs shows their special genes and careful breeding.

Maran chickens look stunning with shiny black feathers and green highlights. Their unique appearance adds elegance to any flock, making them a top choice for backyard farmers who want beautiful and productive chickens. Whether kept for looks or their tasty eggs, Marans chickens are loved by poultry enthusiasts for their mix of beauty and usefulness.

9. New Hampshire Chicken

The New Hampshire Chicken breed is known for making meat and laying eggs. They are popular for their brown eggs. People like them because they eat food efficiently and are a good choice for small farmers and people who keep chickens at home. These chickens have red feathers and are alert, adding beauty to any group of chickens. They are calm and friendly, making them easy to handle and good for families with kids.

They can live in different climates and do well, whether they are free-range or kept in a small space. In general, New Hampshire Chickens are a good mix of practicality and charm for anyone who wants a versatile chicken in their flock.

10. Orpington Chicken

The Orpington chicken is a great choice for backyard farming. They lay brown eggs and are friendly pets. These chickens have a strong build and fluffy feathers in different colors, such as black, blue, buff, and white. Orpingtons are known for being good mothers and taking care of their chicks well. Poultry lovers like them for their ability to lay eggs and be used for meat. Their friendly nature makes them a top pick for homesteaders who want birds for both eggs and meat.

Orpington chickens are popular among hobbyists and farmers because they are charming and provide food and companionship.

11. Plymouth Rock Chicken

Plymouth Rock chickens are popular for laying large, brown eggs regularly, making them a top choice for backyard poultry keepers. Their black-and-white striped look adds charm to any flock. Plymouth Rocks are known for being calm and easy to care for, making them suitable for beginners or experienced chicken lovers.

They can thrive in different environments and climates, whether free-range or confined. Plymouth Rock hens are good mothers, showing strong instincts when caring for chicks.

12. Rhode Island Red Chicken

Rhode Island Red chickens are known for their pretty mahogany feathers and good egg-laying skills. They lay big, brown, tasty eggs. These chickens are also known for their strong personalities and can be noisy, adding energy to any backyard flock. Rhode Island Reds are dual-purpose birds, valued for their eggs and meat. They are smart and easy to care for, making them a practical choice for poultry keepers.

13. Sex Link Chicken

Sex Link chickens are popular for backyard poultry because they lay eggs well. Female chickens are reddish or golden, while males are white or silver. This makes it easy to tell them apart from birth, which is helpful for those who only want hens.

Sex Link chickens have good temperaments and can adapt to different climates, making them a great choice for any flock. They lay eggs consistently and are friendly, making them great companions for experienced and new chicken keepers. Sex Link chickens are a good choice for backyard poultry keeping because they are both beautiful and useful.

14. Wyandotte Chicken

Wyandotte chickens are known for their unique appearance, beautiful laced feathers and striking colors. Their plumage has intricate patterns that make them stand out in any backyard or farm. These chickens are both good egg layers and attractive birds.

They lay brown eggs that are visually pleasing and nutritious, with rich golden yolks. Wyandotte chickens are popular among poultry enthusiasts for their quality eggs.

They are loved by chicken keepers worldwide for their productivity and delightful personalities.

15. Cochin Chicken

The Cochin chicken is a popular breed known for its fluffy feathers and friendly personality. They lay large brown eggs that are tasty and nutritious, perfect for cooking or eating for breakfast. Despite being smaller than other chickens, Cochins are strong and can live in different climates. This makes them a good choice for new chicken owners.

Cochins are also friendly and get along well with people and other animals, making them great companions in a backyard.

16. Welsummer Chicken

The Welsummer chicken is a favorite among poultry lovers because of its striking appearance and friendly personality. It has beautiful golden feathers with dark brown speckles and lays eggs with rich colors, adding excitement to egg collections.

Welsummers are good egg layers and have a calm and friendly nature, making them a great choice for backyard farmers. They get along well with other chickens and are good at finding food. With proper care, they can thrive in different environments and bring joy and beauty to those who keep them.

17. Shamo Chicken

The Shamo chicken is a unique and strong bird from Japan that has gained popularity worldwide. These birds are known for their muscular build and are good fighters in cockfighting. They are also admired for their beauty and grace, with sleek black or red feathers and an elegant posture. Despite their large size, Shamo chickens are gentle when treated well. They lay large brown eggs that are delicious and favored by cooks.

Why are Brown Eggs More Expensive?

Brown eggs are more expensive because the chickens that lay them require more food and space. They are raised in smaller groups, eat extraordinary food, and have outdoor areas to find food. People believe brown eggs are superior and are willing to pay more for them. This allows producers to charge higher prices without losing customers, causing prices to increase further.

Brown Eggs vs. White Eggs – What’s the Difference?

Choosing between brown and white eggs often relies on misunderstandings rather than nutrition or taste. The eggshell color comes from the hen’s breed;

brown eggs are from breeds like Rhode Island Reds and Sussex, while white eggs come from Leghorns. Both types have similar protein and vitamin levels, making them equally good for your diet. Some people think brown eggs look more artisanal and link them to organic farming, which can lead to higher prices.

However, many brown egg producers use standard farming methods. White eggs are often more affordable and consistent in size and shape, making them common in many homes.

In the end, the choice between brown and white eggs is usually about personal preference, not quality.

So, next time you’re at the store or farmers market, think about what matters more to you: appearance or freshness.

Conclusion

Giving treats to brown egg-laying chickens can be a fun way to improve their diet and well-being. By offering healthy treats like fruits, vegetables, and mealworms, you can ensure your chickens get the nutrients they need for good eggs. Remember to give treats in moderation to avoid health problems and maintain a balanced diet.

Also, giving treats can help you bond with your chickens and create a happy environment. Start with small amounts of new treats and see what your chickens like. Treating your chickens with healthy snacks can make them healthier and happier and improve the taste of their eggs.

Frequently Asked Question