Discover all the crucial details with this comprehensive guide for chicken enthusiasts on the Lavender Orpington breed.
About Lavender Orpington hens, including information on temperament, egg production, and appropriateness for your flock.
Find out why adding these lovely and sociable birds to your backyard chicken setup is smart. Do you intend to include
Lavender Orpington chickens to your flock? These stunning birds have gained popularity recently due to their unique lavender
plumage and friendly demeanour. Everything you need to know about Lavender Orpingtons, including their history, appearance,
temperament, capacity for egg production, and compatibility with your flock, will be covered in this thorough book.
Lavender Orpington Overview
| Type Dual Purpose heavy | |
| Size Large | |
| Heritage Breed Yes | |
| Weight 7 – 10 pounds | |
| Weeks To Maturity 20 to 22 weeks Rooster | |
| Egg Size Large | |
| Egg Color Light brown | |
| Dual Purpose Yes | |
| Egg Production 3-4 per week, about 200 per year | |
| Temperament Docile and friendly | |
| Color variations Buff, Black, White, and Blue are the national colours of the United states | |
| Beginner Friendly Yes | |
| Kid Friendly Yes | |
| Heat Tolerant No | |
| Cold Tolerant Yes | |
| Comb Type Single | |
| Broodiness Frequent | |
| Flightines Not flighty | |
| Noise Level Low | |
| Unique Traits Roosters that will protect their young | |
| Average Life Span 5 to 10 years | |
Introduction
Lavender Orpingtons have become the talk of the town among chicken enthusiasts. Their unique lavender plumage sets them
apart from other breeds, making them a visual delight. But these birds are more than simply attractive-looking creatures.
Let’s explore the history and origins of Lavender Orpingtons to gain a deeper understanding of this breed.
Lavender Orpington Background
The fascinating story of Lavender Orpingtons begins in England during the 1880s. William Cook, from Orpington, Kent, envisioned
creating a chicken breed that excelled in egg production and meat quality. Cook had tremendous success on both sides of the Atlantic,
starting with the Black Orpington. Cook expanded the Orpington breed by introducing various colors, and one of the most beloved
variants became the Buff Orpington. The Buff Orpington was created by crossbreeding different fowl, such as Cochin, Dorking, and
Spangled Hamburgers.
However, the breed’s official standards do not recognize Lavender Orpingtons as a standard color.
Appearance and Temperament of Lavender Orpingtons
Lavender Orpingtons possess a distinct beauty that attracts chicken enthusiasts worldwide. In any flock, their delicate lavender
feathers make them stand out. These calm and friendly birds make them popular with families and individuals looking for docile
and gentle chickens.
Breed Standard
While Lavender Orpingtons are not recognized as a standard color within the Orpington breed, they still adhere to the general breed
characteristics.
The Lavender Orpingtons maintain the same body shape, size, and traits as other Orpington varieties. They exhibit a single, five-point
comb and are considered medium-sized chickens.
Free-Ranging Lavender Orpingtons
Lavender Orpingtons are well-suited for free-ranging setups, provided they have ample shade and water during the hot summer months.
These birds are cold-hardy and can withstand lower temperatures, making them adaptable to various climates. With 4–10 square feet
of space per bird, Lavender Orpingtons can thrive in both small and large backyard setups.
Lavender Orpington Egg Laying and Health Issues
One of the significant advantages of keeping Lavender Orpingtons is their egg-laying capabilities. These hens can produce
approximately 170-200 light brown eggs annually, making them valuable to any egg-centric flock. However, it’s essential to be
aware of potential health issues affecting Lavender Orpingtons, as with any chicken breed.
More Related
- Blue Australorp Care Guide: Raising Healthy and Happy Chickens
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- The Optimal Hen-to-Rooster Ratio for Chicken Farming;
How to Breed the Lavender Color
Since Lavender Orpingtons are not recognized as a color in the breed standard, breeders have developed methods to breed and
maintain the lavender plumage. Breeding Lavender Orpingtons involves selecting birds with the lavender gene and carefully
pairing them to produce offspring with the desired lavender coloration. This process requires patience and careful
Is The Lavender Orpington Right For Your Flock?
When considering adding Lavender Orpingtons to your flock, it is crucial to evaluate if they are the right fit. Due to their placid
disposition and friendliness, these hens are beginner-friendly and perfect for families with young children. Their dual-purpose
qualities, combining meat and egg production, make them highly versatile.
Conclusion
Lavender Orpingtons are a delightful addition to any backyard chicken setup. Their striking lavender plumage, friendly temperament,
and excellent egg-laying capabilities make them a sought-after breed among chicken enthusiasts. Whether you’re a novice or a
seasoned chicken keeper, your flock will benefit from these lovely birds’ delight and beauty. Now that you have comprehensive
information about Lavender Orpingtons, you can confidently consider adding these remarkable chickens to your flock.
Remember to provide them with a suitable living environment, proper care, and nutrition to ensure their well-being and longevity.
Happy chicken-keeping!
FAQs
Are Lavender Orpington chickens rare?
While Lavender Orpingtons are not officially recognized as a standard color, their increasing popularity has made them more accessible. However, they are still considered relatively uncommon compared to other recognized Orpington colors.
How long do Lavender Orpington chickens live?
Lavender Orpingtons have a lifespan of approximately 8-10 years, provided they receive proper care, nutrition, and a suitable living environment.
What is the cost of Lavender Orpington chickens?
Depending on their age and sex, Lavender Orpington chick prices might change. Per chicken, the typical cost varies between $4 and $8.
Do Lavender Orpington chickens go broody?
Yes, Lavender Orpingtons tend to go broody. Depending on your objectives and needs, their broodiness may be beneficial or harmful.
What is the egg size of Lavender Orpingtons?
Lavender Orpingtons typically lay medium-sized eggs. The exact size may vary slightly among individual hens.
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