Wyandottes are splendid birds that come in an endless variety of colours. This American bred bird is incredibly popular all over the world - not only because they are so beautiful, but because they are productive layers and great backyard companions.
Lifespan
The Wyandotte has an average lifespan, ranging from about 6-12 years.
Class
Wyandottes are a chicken from the ‘American Class’.
Rarity
Wyandottes are a popular breed in Australia and not hard to find - if you're trying to track down some pure breeds that comply with all the Australian standards, then you might have to search a bit harder. Many Wyandotte breeders sell lots of different colour varieties, so you’re sure to find one you like.
Origin
The Wyandotte chicken is an all-American breed, originating from the state of New York. Their name comes from a Native American tribe, however whether they are actually associated in any way with the tribe is unknown.
Following this, different varieties of Wyandotte gradually made their way across different states of America - such as the Partridge, Silver Laced and Buff.
Fun Facts
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Popular show breed around the world
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New colour varieties of the Wyandotte are still being created by breeders around the globe - one of the most recent is the ‘Chocolate Partridge’
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Also comes in a Bantam size.
Current Use/Purpose
The Wyandotte is considered a dual purpose breed, because of its heavy weight and also productive egg laying ability.
Personality and Temperament
Wyandotte chickens are docile and friendly birds that make great backyard chickens. They love to free range and forage in an open area, however can tolerate confinement - so a mix of both run enclosure time and backyard roaming time will keep them satisfied and thriving in their environment.
Incubating and Hatching
Wyandotte chickens are known for having strong broody tendencies, and being reliable sitters on fertile eggs. Also, they make great mothers that will lovingly tend to their baby chicks with ease.
Egg Behaviour
Wyandotte chickens are decent egg layers, laying approximately 200 large brown eggs each year. What’s even better is that they generally lay through the winter months as well as summer, whereas other breeds tend to cease egg production.
Appearance
The Wyandotte is a heavy, sturdy looking breed (hence why its a popular dual purpose breed), weighing in at 2.7-3.8kgs.
The Wyandotte comes in a wide range of beautiful colour varieties (recognised by various Standard Associations across the world) that were developed as it spread across America - from Columbian, to Buff, to Partridge...the list goes on! They also have bright red combs and pale coloured legs.
The laced varieties are particularly striking, and some of the most popular variations of the region. A popular and stunning variety is the blue laced wyandotte which has unusual blue/grey laced feathers. Many keepers would agree that blue laced Wyandottes are one of the most photogenic chooks out there! You may that their blue laced exterior means they also lay blue eggs - sadly not! They actually lay large brown eggs.
Care
Wyandottes are generally quite self sufficient birds. Their particularly feathery and fluffy behind can be a problem, as droppings occasionally causes a mess - so if this becomes a problem, a quick trim of the feathers should fix it right up.
Fresh water and nutritious feed should always be available to them, as should a safe and secure chicken coop where they can roost and lay their eggs.
Health Issues
Wyandottes don’t have any health issues particular to their breed, and their health should be treated as well as any average chicken. Regular worming is great for keeping parasites at bay, as well as vaccinations if necessary.
Hardiness
The Wyandotte is egg-ceptionally hardy in cold winter conditions. This is due to their heavy weight and feathering. Therefore, you shouldn’t have too much of a problem if it gets a bit nippy! As long as they have a well ventilated coop to shelter in, your flock will be comfortable and happy.
Why We Love Them!
Wyandottes are spectacular, hardy birds that supply us with great backyard companionship and fresh eggs all year round. There are so many colour varieties to choose from, and all are visually striking - we wish we could have one of every colour!
Whether you think Wyandottes are the breed for you, or are considering the many other possible chooks for your flock, it can be eggtremely confusing and difficult to make the best decision for you and your family.
Cluckily, our friends over at Chickenpedia have created an amazing Chicken Breeds Course. This extensive online course shares useful advice on choosing the right chickens for you as well as size & frequency of eggs laid. You’ll even learn about their individual personalities, and be able to use their family-friendly compatibility scale through this well-structured program. It really is a great way to find your perfect backyard buddies which is why I highly recommend them to all of my readers! The courses are beginner-friendly and filled with vital information to help you raise a happy, healthy flock.
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