Australorp Chickens: Your Helpful Care Guide
Australorp chickens are one of the most popular breeds for backyard chicken keepers, and it’s easy to see why! Known for their friendly temperament and incredible egg production, these versatile birds are a great addition to any flock. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about raising and caring for Australorp chickens, including their history, care tips, and answers to common questions.
What is an Australorp Chicken?
Australorps are a chicken breed developed in Australia from imported Orpington stock from England, with additional crossbreeding along the way. They’re best known for their glossy black features and calm demeanor. These birds are medium to large in size, with hens typically weighing between 5 and 9 pounds. One of the standout features of Australorps is their excellent egg-laying abilities, making them a top choice for both beginner and experienced chicken owners.
The History of Australorp Chickens
Australorp chickens have an interesting background that began in the late 19th century. They were developed in Australia by crossbreeding English Black Orpingtons with other local breeds to create a bird that was both a strong egg layer and hardy in different climates. The name “Australorp” is a combination of “Australian” and “Orpington,” reflecting the breed’s roots.
In the 1920s, Australorps gained worldwide fame after one hen set a world record by laying 354 eggs in just 365 days! Since then, they’ve been prized for their productivity and have become a favorite in backyard flocks around the world.
Caring for Australorp Chickens
Australorps are relatively low-maintenance chickens, but like all birds, they thrive with proper care. Here are a few key tips to keep your Australorps happy and healthy:
- Feeding: To maintain their excellent egg-laying performance, Australorps need a high-quality protein-rich feed, especially when laying. Opt for a layer feed with at least 16% protein
- Housing: Australorps are generally hardy but still need a well-ventilated, predator-proof coop to stay safe and comfortable. Ensure your coop has enough space, with at least 4 square feet per bird, and add perches for roosting at night.
- Nesting Boxes: Because Australorps are prolific egg layers, providing enough nesting boxes for them to lay their eggs comfortably is essential. To avoid crowding, plan for at least one nesting box per three hens.
- Free Ranging and Exercise: Australorps love to forage, and allowing them access to an outdoor run or free-ranging area will keep them active and healthy. If free-ranging, make sure the area is secure from predators, as Australorps can be curious and wander off.
- Healthcare: Regular checkups for parasites like mites and lice are important, especially if your Australorps are free-ranging. Maintain a clean coop, and consider adding natural remedies like diatomaceous earth to dust baths to help keep pests at bay.
Common Australorp Chickens FAQs
Curious about what makes Australorps special? Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about this beloved breed.
What color eggs do Australorp Chickens lay?
Australorp chickens lay beautiful light brown eggs. They are well-known for their consistent egg-laying abilities, making them a top choice for egg production.
How long do Australorp Chickens live?
With good care, Australorp chickens can live for 6 to 10 years. Like all chickens, their lifespan depends on factors like diet, health care, and living conditions.
How many eggs do Australorp Chickens lay?
Australorp hens are outstanding layers, producing an average of 250 to 300 eggs annually. Some hens have even been known to lay more, particularly in their peak laying years!
When do Australorp Chickens start laying eggs?
Australorps typically start laying eggs around 5 to 6 months of age. Once they begin, you can expect a steady supply of eggs, especially in the first few years of their life.
What are the pros and cons of Australorp chickens?
Pros:
- Excellent egg layers
- Calm, friendly temperament
- Hardy in various climates
- Easy to care for, making them great for beginners
Cons:
- Australorps have a tendency to gain weight if overfed, so monitoring their diet is important.
- Their calm nature can sometimes make them prone to bullying by more aggressive breeds.
Do Australorps stop laying in winter?
While many chicken breeds reduce egg production in the winter, Australorps are known for continuing to lay through colder months, though you might notice a slight drop in production. Providing extra light during shorter days can help maintain their laying schedule. It is important to note that after their 2nd or 3rd winter, it is likely that egg production will significantly decrease.
Give Your Australorp Chickens the Best Feed
At Kalmbach Feeds, we’re committed to helping you raise happy, healthy chickens. Whether you’re new to keeping chickens or adding to an existing flock, our high-quality poultry feeds will support your birds at every stage of life. Explore our website to learn more about our products, and contact us if any questions arise!
