Getting to Know the Lavender Orpington Breed
If you're looking to add some diversity to your backyard flock, the Lavender Orpington breed may be just what you need.
These stunning chickens are not only beautiful with their light and fluffy plumage, but they also make excellent egg layers. With a calm and friendly temperament, they get along well with other flock members and are even kid-friendly.
They are easy to care for and can handle both hot and cold weather. The Lavender Orpington breed is a true gem and a great addition to any chicken lover's flock.
Lavender Orpington Breed Overview
The Lavender Orpington is a beautiful and popular breed of chicken known for its light and fluffy plumage. They are a standard breed, classified as English, and have a calm and friendly temperament.
These chickens are kid-friendly, making them a great addition to a family flock. They are also known to be broody, so if you're interested in hatching your own chicks, the Lavender Orpington is a good choice.
When it comes to heat and cold hardiness, these chickens handle both extremes fairly well. However, they will need plenty of shade and water during the summer months to stay comfortable.
In terms of space requirements, each Lavender Orpington will need 4-10 square feet of space. They are beginner-friendly birds and are relatively easy to care for.
In terms of egg production, the Lavender Orpingtons lay anywhere from 170-200 eggs per year. These eggs are a medium size and have a light brown color.
The Lavender Orpingtons are also considered a dual-purpose breed, meaning they are good for both meat and egg production.
When it comes to size and weight, male Lavender Orpingtons can mature to around 160 ounces or 10 pounds, while females can reach around 128 ounces or 8 pounds.
They have a single, five-point comb and are not considered a heritage breed. The Lavender Orpingtons are typically ready for processing between 16-20 weeks and have a lifespan of 8-10 years.
My Experience with Lavender Orpingtons
I have had the pleasure of raising Lavender Orpingtons in my own flock, and I must say, their gentleness with their flock mates is truly remarkable.
They are not at the top or bottom of the pecking order but instead prefer to stick together as a little group within the larger flock. Their medium-sized, light brown eggs are consistently laid, with an average of 170-200 eggs per year.
While Orpingtons in general are known to be broody, I have not experienced any issues with broodiness in my Lavender Orpingtons. They have been relatively easy to manage in that regard. One of the standout features of these chickens is their large and poofy feathers, which give them a majestic appearance.
Despite their stunning looks, they are not overly vocal or noisy, which is a definite plus in my book.
History of the Orpington Breed
The Orpington breed can be traced back to the 1800s when it was first bred by William Cook, who named the chickens after the small town of Orpington, England.
Cook aimed to create the perfect dual-purpose bird, excelling in both egg production and meat quality. His efforts paid off, as the breed gained popularity not only in England but also in the United States.
Unfortunately, as small homesteads were replaced by large-scale poultry farms in the mid-20th century, the Orpington breed fell out of favor and was even placed on the "threatened" breed list.
However, during the past few decades, there has been a resurgence of interest in the Orpington breed, particularly as a family and show breed. Today, Orpington chickens are more popular than ever.
The Lavender Orpingtons are a relatively recent addition to the Orpington family.
The lavender color, introduced in the late 1990s, is a very diluted black. Breeding Lavender Orpingtons has resulted in offspring that consistently inherit the lavender color, making it a sought-after variation of the breed.
Where to Buy Lavender Orpingtons
If you're looking for a great start-up chicken, especially for families, the Lavender Orpington is an excellent choice.
These birds are known for their sweet and friendly nature, making them easy to handle and interact with. They are also hardy and able to withstand various weather conditions.
When it comes to purchasing Lavender Orpingtons, I highly recommend checking out Hoover's Hatchery. I have personally had success with this hatchery and their shipping process.
While receiving chicks via mail may seem intimidating, rest assured that Hoover's takes great care in ensuring the safe arrival of the chicks. However, it is important to note that the chicks may arrive dehydrated and fragile.
Having a Baby Chick Care Kit on hand can help you get the chicks rehydrated and off to a strong start.
In conclusion, the Lavender Orpington is a stunning breed of chicken with a friendly temperament and good egg-laying capabilities.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced chicken enthusiast, these birds are a delightful addition to any flock. So, consider adding the Lavender Orpington to your backyard and enjoy their beauty and charm for years to come.