New Hampshire

New Hampshire Chicken

The New Hampshire chicken, developed in the early 1900s in New Hampshire and Massachusetts, is a distinct breed that originated from the Rhode Island Red. Recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1935, this breed was created through selective breeding for faster feathering, growth, and maturity.

During World War II and beyond, New Hampshires played a key role in the poultry industry, even contributing to the development of the Delaware chicken. In 2018, the New Hampshire chicken was declared the official state bird.

Known for their broad, deep bodies and rapid feathering, New Hampshires are dual-purpose chickens, laying about 200-220 large, tinted eggs annually. Their plumage is a chestnut red with possible yellow highlights, and they may have black-tipped feathers on their neck and wings. Males weigh around 8.5 lbs., and hens about 6.5 lbs.

This breed is generally beginner-friendly but can be assertive around food. They are well-suited for both cold and warm climates with proper care.

At The Chicken Coop Company, our New Hampshires originate from the “Newcomer” strain, known for early maturity and good egg production. Whether you're looking for a hardy layer or a meat bird, the New Hampshire is an excellent choice.

Health and Care:

• Hardy and Adaptable: New Hampshire chickens are known for being hardy and adaptable to various climates. They are well-suited for both hot and cold weather conditions, though extra care should be taken to provide them with sufficient shade and water during hot summer months. They do well in cold weather as long as they have a draft-free, warm shelter.
  
  
• Disease Resistance: This breed is generally disease-resistant and can thrive in a variety of environments. However, they are still susceptible to common poultry diseases, such as mites, lice, and respiratory problems if not properly cared for. Regular cleaning of the coop, providing fresh water, and maintaining a clean and safe environment will help them stay healthy.
  
  
• Low Maintenance: New Hampshire chickens are fairly low-maintenance. They do not require any special care beyond standard chicken needs, such as proper shelter, a balanced diet, and access to clean water. They are known to be robust birds that can tolerate a range of conditions without requiring excessive attention.

Egg Laying:

• Excellent Egg Production: One of the most notable features of the New Hampshire Chicken is its impressive egg-laying ability. They are prolific layers, producing about 250-300 large brown eggs annually. Their consistent egg production makes them a great choice for those looking for a reliable egg source.
  
  
• Year-Round Laying: New Hampshire chickens are excellent year-round layers, even during the winter months. While egg production may slow down slightly during colder weather, it does not stop altogether, and they can continue to provide eggs through the winter.
  
  
• Large Brown Eggs: The eggs laid by New Hampshire chickens are large and brown. The hens’ ability to consistently produce sizable eggs makes them a favorite for both small and large egg producers.
  
  

Temperament:

• Friendly and Calm: New Hampshire chickens are generally friendly, calm, and easy to handle. They are known to be sociable and get along well with other chickens. Their non-aggressive nature makes them a great addition to mixed-flock settings and is well-suited for family farms or those with young children.
  
  
• Active and Curious: While they are calm, New Hampshire chickens are also quite active and curious. They enjoy exploring their environment and foraging for food, which makes them suitable for free-range environments. They are intelligent birds and can adapt to a variety of living conditions.
  
  
• Good with People: Unlike some more skittish breeds, New Hampshire chickens tend to be quite social with people. They are relatively easy to handle and are comfortable around humans, which makes them a good option for beginner chicken keepers.
  
  

Appearance:

• Attractive Plumage: New Hampshire chickens are known for their rich, red plumage. They have a reddish-brown color with a deep, even tone across their bodies. The feathers are smooth and glossy, giving them an attractive and healthy appearance.
  
  
• Medium Size: The breed is medium to large in size, with roosters typically weighing around 7-8 pounds and hens around 5.5-6.5 pounds. Despite their size, they are active and move easily around their environment.
  
  
• Single Comb and Wattles: New Hampshire chickens have a typical single comb and red wattles. The comb is medium-sized and upright, while the wattles and earlobes are also red, contributing to their bright and vibrant appearance.
  
  
• Strong Build: They have a strong and muscular build, which is one of the reasons they are also used as a meat bird. Their robust physique makes them well-suited for both egg production and meat, providing versatility to farmers.
  
  

How do New Hampshire chickens differ from Rhode Island chickens? 

New Hampshire Red chickens are distinct from Rhode Island Reds in several ways: they are raised primarily for meat, growing faster and maturing earlier. They have a quicker feathering process and exhibit higher vigor. This breed generally produces fewer eggs compared to Rhode Island Reds.

• Poultry Show Class: American Class
• Weights: Hen ——-6 1/2 lbs       
• Rooster——8 1/2 lbs
• 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: 200-280 eggs per year (estimates only)
• Egg Size: Large-Extra Large
• Temperament: Docile
• Gender Accuracy: 85-90%
• Fertility Percentage: 65-80%
• Broody: Variable
• Mating Ratio: 10 Females to 1 Males
• Roost Height: 2 to 4 feet
• Country of Origin: United States (New England)
• APA: Yes, Recognized by American Standard of Perfection in 1935.
• TLC: Yes, Threatened status, A Sustainable Heritage Chicken Breed.
• BREEDER FARM SOURCE: Poultry Breeding Farm has been developing our bloodline or strain of pure New Hampshire since 1945.