Australorp Chicken Breed with Pictures: The Ultimate 7 Guide

Have you ever come across the Australorp chicken? If not, you are in for a special surprise! This incredible type of chicken has been catching the attention of poultry enthusiasts for quite a while.

Australorps have striking black feathers that glimmer with a gorgeous green shine under the sun. However, do not be deceived by their attractive appearance – these birds have more to offer than just their beauty! Australorps, initially developed in Australia, have gained popularity due to their outstanding egg-laying skills and amiable nature.

Whether you have experience in raising chickens or are new to it, the Australorp could be a fantastic choice for your group of birds. Let’s clarify it!

Australorp Chicken Breed Profile

Before we start sharing about the Australorp chicken in detail, here’s a quick overview for you –

History and Location of the Australorp Chicken Breed

The Australorp chicken breed has its roots in the Land Down Under. As you might have guessed from the name, “Australorp” is a combination of “Australian” and “Orpington.” This clever name gives us a clue about the breed’s origins.

Development and Recognition

In the early 1900s, Australian breeders set out to create a chicken that could thrive in their country’s unique climate. They started with Black Orpingtons imported from England and crossed them with other breeds like Rhode Island Reds, Minorcas, and Langshans.

The result? A hardy, productive bird that could handle the Australian heat and still lay plenty of eggs. The Australorp was officially recognized as a breed in 1929 by the Poultry Club of New South Wales.

Global Spread

Word of the Australorp’s impressive egg-laying abilities spread quickly. Soon, these birds were being exported to other countries. They gained popularity in the United States during the 1920s and were officially recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1929.

Today, Australorps can be found in backyards and farms across the globe, from their native Australia to North America, Europe, and beyond.

Physical Appearance of the Australorp Chicken Breed

There are some differences between male and female Australorp chickens. To make it clear, here’s a part of explanation –

Male Australorps

Roosters are the showstoppers of the Australorp world:

• Size: They’re big boys, typically weighing between 8.5 to 10 pounds.
• Comb and Wattles: They sport a medium-sized single comb with five distinct points. Their wattles are bright red and quite noticeable.
• Plumage: Their feathers are a deep, glossy black with a striking green sheen in the sunlight.
• Stance: Australorp roosters have a proud, upright posture that commands attention.

Female Australorps

Hens are no less impressive:

• Size: They’re slightly smaller than roosters, usually weighing between 6.5 to 8 pounds.
• Comb and Wattles: Their combs and wattles are smaller than those of the roosters but still bright red.
• Plumage: Like the roosters, hens have beautiful black feathers with a green sheen.
• Body Shape: They have a rounded, full-bodied appearance that’s quite charming.

Similar Traits

Both males and females share these characteristics:

• Eyes: Dark brown eyes that are alert and expressive.
• Beak: A strong, dark-colored beak.
• Legs and Feet: Slate or black in color, with four toes on each foot.
• Skin Color: White, which contrasts beautifully with their dark feathers.

Personality of the Australorp Chicken Breed

Australorps are known for their easy-going nature. They’re the kind of chickens that make you want to pull up a chair and hang out in the coop all day:

• Calm: These birds are generally very relaxed and don’t get easily ruffled.
• Friendly: They’re often described as “people-oriented” chickens, enjoying human company.
• Gentle: Australorps are typically non-aggressive, making them great for families with children.

Behavior in the Flock

In the pecking order of your backyard flock, Australorps tend to be:

• Adaptable: They get along well with other breeds and can adjust to various flock dynamics.
• Non-domineering: While they can hold their own, they’re not usually the bullies of the coop.
• Social: Australorps enjoy the company of their feathered friends and do well in groups.

Interaction with Humans

One of the reasons Australorps are so popular is their delightful interaction with their human caretakers:

• Curious: They’re often interested in what you’re doing and may follow you around the yard.
• Trainable: With patience, many Australorps can be taught to come when called or even do simple tricks.
• Lap Chickens: Some Australorps are known to enjoy sitting on their owner’s laps for a cuddle session.

Reproduction and Breeding of Australorp Chicken Breed

Thinking about breeding Australorps? Here’s what you need to know:

When does the Australorp Chicken start breeding session?

Australorps typically reach sexual maturity around 5-6 months of age. However, for optimal breeding, it’s best to wait until they’re at least 8 months old.

How long does it take for an Australorp Chicken breed to hatch?

Like most chicken breeds, Australorp eggs take about 21 days to hatch. Mark your calendars and get ready for some fluffy new arrivals!

How To Breed Australorp Chicken?

1. Select healthy, mature birds for breeding. Look for birds that exemplify the best traits of the breed.
2. Provide a clean, comfortable environment for mating and nesting.
3. Ensure a proper ratio of roosters to hens, typically 1 rooster for every 8-10 hens.
4. Collect and incubate fertile eggs, either naturally under a broody hen or in an incubator.
5. Maintain proper temperature and humidity during incubation.
6. After hatching, provide appropriate care for the chicks, including warmth, food, and water.

How Many Eggs Does the Australorp Chicken breed Lay?

Australorps are egg-laying champions! On average, a healthy Australorp hen can lay between 200-250 eggs per year. Some exceptional layers have been known to produce up to 300 eggs annually.

Which Color Eggs Do Australorp Chicken breed Lay?

Australorp hens lay light brown eggs. The eggs are typically medium to large in size, making them perfect for your breakfast table or baking needs.

What Purpose Does Australorp Chicken Breed Serve the Best

Australorps are considered a dual-purpose breed, excelling in both egg and meat production. However, they truly shine as egg layers:

1. Egg Production: As mentioned earlier, Australorps are prolific layers, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a steady supply of fresh eggs.
2. Meat Production: While not as large as some dedicated meat breeds, Australorps do provide a good amount of meat. Their growth rate is moderate, and they have a nice, plump body shape.
3. Show Birds: With their glossy black feathers and elegant appearance, Australorps can be competitive in poultry shows.
4. Backyard Pets: Their friendly nature makes them great companions for families looking for personable chickens.
5. Homesteading: The combination of good egg production, decent meat yield, and hardiness makes Australorps a popular choice for self-sufficient homesteads.

7 Guides to Raise the Australorp Chicken Breed

Raising Australorps can be a rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

1. Housing: Provide a secure coop with at least 4 square feet of space per bird. Australorps are good foragers, so a spacious run or free-range area is appreciated.
2. Feeding: Offer a balanced layer feed. Supplement with kitchen scraps and allow for foraging to keep them healthy and happy.
3. Water: Ensure clean, fresh water is always available. Change it daily and clean waterers regularly.
4. Health Care: Regular health checks, deworming, and parasite control are important. Watch for signs of illness and consult a vet if needed.
5. Egg Collection: Collect eggs daily to encourage continued laying and prevent egg-eating behavior.
6. Winter Care: While Australorps are cold-hardy, provide extra bedding and consider a heat lamp in extremely cold climates.
7. Socialization: Spend time with your birds. Australorps enjoy human interaction and will become even friendlier with regular handling.

Pros and Cons of Having Australorp Chicken Breed

Not every chicken are best of all, so the Australorps are! Find out some pros and cons of them –

Pros:

• Excellent egg layers
• Friendly and calm temperament
• Cold-hardy
• Good foragers
• Suitable for both beginners and experienced chicken keepers

Cons:

• Not the best for meat production if that’s your primary goal
• May go broody, which can interrupt egg laying
• Require ample space due to their size
• Can be prone to obesity if overfed

5 Reasons for Raising Australorp Chicken Breed

Let’s find out the best reasons to raise Australorp chickens in your backyard!

1. Egg Production: If you love fresh eggs, Australorps won’t disappoint. Their impressive laying ability means a steady supply for your kitchen.
2. Friendly Pets: Their gentle nature makes them great for families, even those with children. They often enjoy human interaction.
3. Low Maintenance: Australorps are generally healthy and hardy, requiring minimal special care beyond basic chicken needs.
4. Adaptability: These birds do well in various climates and can adapt to different living situations, from small backyards to large farms.
5. Dual-Purpose: While they excel at egg laying, Australorps can also provide meat if desired, making them a versatile choice for homesteaders.

Related Reads:

• Brown Leghorn Egg Laying Chicken Breed
• Deathlayer Chicken Breed

FAQs

Curious to learn more? Check this Q&A section out!

Are Australorps good for beginners?

Yes, their calm temperament and hardiness make them excellent for first-time chicken keepers.

Do Australorps get along with other chicken breeds?

Generally, yes. They’re known for their adaptable and non-aggressive nature.

How long do Australorp chickens live?

With proper care, Australorps can live between 6-10 years.

Are there different color varieties of Australorps?

While black is the most common, there are also blue and white varieties, though these are less common.

Do Australorps require special care in winter?

They’re quite cold-hardy, but like all chickens, they appreciate extra bedding and protection from drafts in very cold weather.

Conclusion

Australorp chickens are truly a remarkable breed. Their combination of prolific egg-laying, friendly personality, and adaptability makes them a fantastic choice for backyard flocks and small farms alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just starting out, Australorps have a lot to offer. From their stunning black feathers to their gentle nature, these Australian-bred birds have won hearts around the world. Why not consider adding some to your flock?