Barnevelder

Barnevelder Chicken

The Barnevelder chicken hails from the Barneveld region in the Netherlands, celebrated for its dark brown eggs. This striking bird features a single comb, is known for its resilience, quiet temperament, and adaptability to confinement. The breed was officially recognized by the American Standard of Perfection in 1991. The Chicken Coop Company’s Barnevelders breeding stock offers a range of feather patterns, including partridge single laced and the sought-after double laced. Each breeding season, our goal is to enhance the prevalence of the double laced pattern.

Although the Barnevelder chicken is still considered rare in the USA, it is steadily gaining popularity. Initially bred for its dark brown eggs, which were highly prized in the Netherlands, the Barnevelder quickly earned a reputation for its excellent egg-laying capabilities, hardiness, and quality meat. The breed faced a decline during World War II due to food shortages but was later reestablished and continues to grow in popularity. To purchase Barnevelder chickens, please select your desired quantity of up to 50 above.

Are Barnevelder chickens reliable egg layers?
Barnevelder hens may not be the most prolific egg producers, but they are steady layers. They typically produce between 150 to 200 medium to large brown eggs annually. While this is less than what you might get from dedicated laying breeds like Leghorns or Anconas, it's a solid output for a breed valued for both eggs and meat.

What color eggs do Barnevelder hens produce?
Barnevelder hens lay a distinctive darker brown egg, making them a standout addition to any flock. These chickens are not only beautiful with their unique plumage but also have a calm and gentle demeanor, making them a great choice for families with children.

How long do Barnevelder chickens live?
Barnevelder chickens generally have a lifespan ranging from 6 to 12 years. They are cherished across the globe for their consistent egg-laying, good-quality meat, and striking appearance.

Are Barnevelder hens prone to aggression?
Barnevelder hens are known for their easygoing, friendly nature. They are so relaxed that some might consider them a bit lazy. However, this laid-back attitude is what makes them ideal backyard chickens, perfect for a stress-free environment.

Which chicken breed lays the largest eggs?
While Barnevelders are medium-sized birds weighing around 4.5 to 5 pounds at maturity, they are not the top layer of large eggs. The title for the largest eggs goes to the Minorca breed. However, Barnevelders still produce a good-sized egg, making them a versatile addition to any flock.

Is the Barnevelder considered a heritage breed?
Yes, the Barnevelder is indeed a heritage breed, prized for its lovely brown eggs and unique double-laced plumage with a beetle-green sheen. These hardy birds are excellent foragers and adapt well to confinement, though they thrive in free-range environments. They are a quiet, manageable breed, making them a valuable part of any preservation efforts.

• Poultry Show Class: Continental Class
  
• Weights: Hen—–6 lbs
  
• Rooster——7 lbs
  
• Pullet—-5 lbs
  
• Cockerel—–6 lbs
  
• Purpose and Type: Egg Laying; Exhibition
  
• Egg Shell Color: Dark Brown
  
• Egg Production: 150-200 eggs per year (estimates only, see FAQ)
  
• Egg Size: Large
  
• Temperament: Active
  
• Gender Accuracy: 80-85%
  
• Fertility Percentage: 65-80%
  
• Broody: Non Setter
  
• Mating Ratio: 7 Females to 1 Male
  
• Roost Height: 2 to 4 feet
  
• Country of Origin: Holland
  
• APA: Yes, Recognized by the American Standard of Perfection
  
• TLC: Not Listed
  
• BREEDER FARM SOURCE: Poultry Breeding Farm has been developing our bloodline/strain of pure Barnevelder chickens since 2008.