Columbian Wyandotte

Columbian Wyandotte Chicken

Columbian Wyandotte Chickens made their debut at the World's Fair in Chicago, held in 1893, a historic event that inspired their name. These stunning birds stand out with their distinctive Columbian pattern, featuring black neck and tail feathers that create a striking contrast against their pristine white bodies. They are truly a remarkable addition to any flock!

Known for their calm temperament, Columbian Wyandotte Chickens occasionally show broody behavior, making them excellent mothers. They are equipped with clean legs and a rose comb, and the hens are prolific layers, producing over 180 brown eggs annually. As a sustainable heritage dual-purpose breed, Wyandottes are an ideal choice for those looking to enhance their homestead with a versatile and reliable bird.

This breed gained its recognition as a standard American breed in the American Standard of Perfection in 1905, following its exhibition at the 1893 World's Fair. With their clean legs, white bodies adorned with black feathers around the neck, tail, and wings, Columbian Wyandottes thrive in both confined spaces and free-range environments. The Chicken Coop Company currently offers a production type/line of these chickens, known for their excellent utility rather than show characteristics.

Appearance

Feather Color:
Columbian Wyandottes have striking plumage with a white body and contrasting black markings. Their neck (hackles), tail, and wing tips are laced in a glossy black, while the rest of the feathers are clean white. The contrast creates a bold, elegant appearance that’s popular in both backyard flocks and show rings.

Body Type:
Broad, rounded body with a deep, compact frame. These birds are true dual-purpose chickens—stocky and meaty without being excessively heavy. Their curved contours and full breast make them well-suited for both meat and egg production.

Head and Comb:
Small, rose comb that’s close to the head—ideal for cold climates as it resists frostbite. Bright red comb, wattles, and face, with orange-red eyes. Beak is short, stout, and yellow.

Legs and Feet:
Clean yellow legs with no feathers. Short and sturdy, set wide apart for stability. Four toes per foot with strong, curved nails.

Size:
Standard adult hens weigh 6.5–7 pounds, and roosters 8.5–9 pounds. Also available in bantam varieties.

Temperament

Calm and Gentle:
Known for their quiet and friendly nature. Excellent choice for families, beginner poultry keepers, and backyard coops. They get along well in mixed flocks and are rarely aggressive.

Confident but Non-Aggressive:
Columbian Wyandottes are confident birds that don’t get bullied easily, but they are also non-confrontational and usually near the middle of the pecking order.

Cold Hardy and Resilient:
Well-suited to colder climates thanks to their rose comb and dense feathering. They continue to lay and remain active even in chilly weather.

Egg Production

Reliable Layers:
Produces around 200–250 light brown eggs annually. Egg size is medium to large.

Laying Season:
Consistent layers throughout the year, with steady production in fall and winter when other breeds may slow down.

Broodiness:
Occasionally broody. When they do go broody, Columbian Wyandottes make attentive and protective mothers.

Health and Care

Hardy and Robust:
Strong genetics and excellent resistance to disease. Thrive in a variety of climates, especially cold and temperate zones.

Feeding Needs:
Standard layer feed supplemented with grains, greens, and occasional treats. Provide calcium (crushed oyster shells) for strong egg shells.

Grooming:
Low maintenance. Keep their coop dry and clean to avoid respiratory issues. No feathered legs means easier foot care and fewer problems with mud.

Housing

Space Requirements:
Tolerant of confinement but enjoy space to roam. Coop space should allow 4 square feet per bird minimum, with access to outdoor runs for enrichment.

Roosting and Nesting:
Comfortable with standard roost heights and nesting boxes. Their broad bodies need slightly larger nest boxes than small or bantam breeds.

Predator Protection:
As with all chickens, ensure secure housing at night and fenced outdoor space during the day. These birds are not flighty and can be managed easily in enclosed areas.

What color eggs do Columbian Wyandottes produce?
Columbian Wyandottes are known for laying beautiful brown eggs. Their appealing yellow skin and well-rounded bodies make them excellent table birds. The variety earned its name after being showcased at the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago.

When do Columbian Wyandottes start laying eggs?
Columbian Wyandottes typically begin egg production between 6 to 8 months of age, which is a bit later than some other breeds, reflecting their larger size. Notably, Wyandottes are known for laying eggs throughout the winter months, though their egg production may decrease during this time compared to the summer.

At what age do Wyandottes start laying eggs?
Wyandotte hens usually start laying eggs around 4 to 6 months of age, offering a consistent supply of about three to four eggs per week. Their eggs range in color from cream to brown, and during the warmer months, hens may lay almost daily. Interestingly, Wyandottes tend to perform better in egg production during winter compared to many other breeds.

What is the lifespan of Wyandottes?
The Wyandotte, an American favorite, is cherished worldwide not only for its striking appearance but also for its productivity and friendly nature. These birds generally live between 6 to 12 years, making them both long-term companions and reliable layers in the backyard.

• Poultry Show Class: American
• Weights: Hen ——6 1/2 lbs
  
• Rooster—8 1/2 lb
  
• Pullet——5 1/2  lbs
  
• Cockerel—7 1/2 lbs
• Purpose and Type: Primary production, Egg Laying & Pet/Secondary meat source
• Egg Shell Color: Brown
• Egg Production: 180-260 eggs per year. (estimates only)
• Egg Size: Medium
• Temperament: Docile
• Gender Accuracy: 85-90%
• Fertility Percentage: 60-75%
• Broody: Setter
• Mating Ratio: 9 Females to 1 Male
• Roost Height: 2 to 4 feet
• Country of Origin: United States
• APA: Yes, Recognized by the Standard of Perfection in 1905
• TLC: Graduated from priority list in 2016
• Breeder Farm Source: Poultry Breeding Farm has been investing over 40 years of developing our bloodline or strain of Columbian Wyandotte.