Choosing the right chicken breeds is the first step. Decide whether you prefer high or moderate layers because that will determine how you care for them in the long term.
No matter the breed, give them protein-fortified feed and plenty of fresh water. Read on to learn about the best laying options, helpful tips for maximum egg production, and more.
Factors to Consider When Selecting Egg-Laying Chicken Breeds
Before bringing your first egg-laying companions home, take these factors into account:
Egg production
- Eggs or nothing
If your aim is a constant supply, select chicken breeds with a high frequency of laying. Opt for those that produce a minimum of 4–5 eggs per week. ISA Browns, for example, have a laying capacity of up to 300 eggs annually, which translates to 25 per month. Just be aware that this consistency tends to come at the cost of a shorter lifespan relative to moderate layers.
Temperament
- Sweetness over spiciness
Your choice depends on why you’re raising chickens and the kind of environment you’re providing. Rhode Island Reds, for example, can be a bit assertive. If you’re mixing breeds or keeping them with a small family, calmer options like Buff Orpingtons are a safer bet.
Hardiness
- Built for all seasons
Choose chicken breeds that are both heat and cold-tolerant. Delaware, Dominique, and Barred Plymouth Rock are quality, hardy options with key traits like dense plumage or feathered legs.
Broodiness
- Eggs over mother chickens
Some chickens would rather play mom than line your basket. If eggs are at the top of your pecking order, go for chicken breeds that show low broodiness. In this case, Easter Eggers and Ameraucanas are the way to go.
Check Out Top Egg-Laying Chicken Breeds
Now that you’ve learned how to choose the best layers, here are some popular picks to start you off:
Leghorn
If you prefer large, white eggs, leghorns are for you. Moreover, their white feathers and large red combs make them a staple in commercial egg farming.
- Egg Production: 300+ eggs per year.
- Temperament: Energetic and a bit nervous. Leghorns prefer to free-range and can be flighty, so they aren’t an ideal choice if you want a lap chicken.
- Climate Tolerance: Very adaptable to warmer climates but may be sensitive to extreme cold due to their large combs.
Golden Comet
Golden Comets are hybrid chicken breeds known for faster growth. They’re an excellent choice for novice farmers who prefer early layers. Their golden-red feathers make it simple to spot them in a flock.
- Egg Production: 280 to 300 large, brown eggs every year.
- Temperament: Very approachable and ideal for families.
- Climate Tolerance: Excels in mild to cool climates.
Rhode Island Red
These chicken breeds are known for their attractive, deep mahogany feathers. They’re strong and often relied on for the consistent production of eggs and meat.
- Egg Production: 250 to 300 large, dark brown eggs every year.
- Temperament: Active, bold, curious, and a little stubborn, but otherwise very friendly and sociable.
- Climate Tolerance: Tolerates cold and heat.
Wyandotte
Wyandottes generally have rose combs and fluffy, rounded bodies. You’ll see them in most of the showy colors like blue, buff, silver, white, or gold. These shades, especially silver and gold, can be found in laced or penciled forms.
- Egg Production: 200 to 250 medium-to-large brown eggs every year.
- Temperament: Docile and peaceful.
- Climate Tolerance: Copes better in cold climates due to their unique comb and dense body.
Barred Plymouth Rock
Barred Plymouth Rock chickens are red single-combed, black and white striped, giving the breed its name. Their warm disposition and strong egg-laying tendencies make them a favorite among chicken keepers.
- Egg Production: 200 to 250 light brown eggs per year.
- Temperament: Relaxed, engaging, and inquisitive.
- Climate Tolerance: Extremely hardy in both cold and hot climates.
General Care and Advice for Maximizing Egg Production
It’s one thing to choose the right chicken breeds, but it’s another to make them happy and productive. Here are some essentials to focus on:
Housing
Your feathered friends need a safe, comfortable habitat to live in. Provide them with a well-ventilated coop with a minimum of 2 square feet of space per chicken and roosting bars for sleeping at night. Add 12-Pack Chicken Nesting Pads or individual Nesting Boxes for a clean laying experience.
Try absorbent items like Pine Bedding Shavings to soak up spills and reduce odors.
Feeding
Diet plays a significant role in both egg quality and quantity. Once your chickens are 18–20 weeks, provide a Layer Feed made from protein-rich grains and seeds. Don’t forget a supplement with a side dish, Flaked Chicken Oyster Shells in a secondary feeder for strong eggshells.
Treats
Who doesn’t love snacks? Treat your chickens to high-quality ones such as Grub Bugs or Pea Flakes to encourage foraging or as a reward for good behavior.
Water
No chickens lay well when thirsty. Choose a waterer that’s easy to clean and refill daily.
Light
To keep egg production steady, chickens need about 14 hours of light per day. In winter, supplemental lighting can be added to mimic longer days.
Conclusion
Keeping egg-laying chicken breeds like Leghorns, Golden Comets, Wyandotte, Barred Plymouth Rock, and Rhode Island Reds is both rewarding and fun. You’ll enjoy a steady supply of fresh eggs and the companionship of feathered friends.
With good lighting, proteinous foods, and a full coop, you can offer your chickens a safe and healthy home.
Disclaimer:
We are not veterinarians, and none of our information should be construed as veterinary advice.
Before adding any new product, please consult your exotic veterinarian. If your pet is acting unwell and you have concerns for their well being, please contact your vet immediately.
