All About Golden-Laced Wyandotte Chicken Breed
Golden-Laced Wyandottes Chicken Breed was called endangered by the Livestock Poultry Organization. These elegant chickens are prolific egg layers and are absolutely able to bring commercial lead as well.
They’re an all-American chicken breed. For being a dual-purpose breed, they got quite famous. In addition, you can’t just ignore such beautiful chickens while it’s an exhibition around your house in America.
This article will come in with an in-depth view of the chicken breed. Just keep on reading!
Table of Contents
Golden-Laced Wyandotte Chicken Breed – A Short Profile
Let’s have a quick look at the chicken breed’s profile in a nutshell.
| Property | Information |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Gallus gallus domesticus |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Origin | United States |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Subspecies | Red Junglefowl |
| Varieties | Golden Laced |
| Purpose | Dual-purpose, eggs and meat |
| Distribution | Worldwide |
| Lifespan | 6-8 years |
| Adaptability | Hardy, good for backyard and small farms |
History of Origin, Location and Timeframe
The golden laced wyandotte is an American breed of domestic chicken. It was developed in New York State in the 1870s by four men –
- Fred Houdlette
- H. M. Doubleday
- John Ray
- L. Whittaker
They wanted to create a hardy dual-purpose fowl that was both a good layer and could produce good meat.
The Wyandotte chicken breed is named after the Wyandot people. They are indigenous to North America. However, it was recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1883.
It soon became popular across the United States amongst small farms and backyards. The breed is known for its reliable egg production and hardiness.
Additionally, its beautiful golden lace-patterned feathers make it a visually stunning choice.
What Golden-Laced Wyandotte Chicken Breed Look Like?
Golden-laced wyandottes are medium to large chickens. Their bodies are round and broad with a curved back. Both the hens and the rooster’s appearance are kinda same. However, the hens are slightly different than the roosters.
Hens
The hens have a rounded, fluffy look with shorter legs and red earlobes. Their breasts are full, making them good egg layers.
The hens have pretty good lacing on their feathers. Full-grown hens weigh about 6.5 pounds and are typically smaller than the roosters.
Roosters
The roosters stand taller with thicker legs and brighter red combs and wattles on their heads. Also, the roosters have rich golden-bay plumage with bold black stripes.
At 12 weeks old, long hackle feathers emerge on the necks of young roosters. Roosters weigh around 8.5 pounds.
Both males and females of this breed are beautiful chickens with pleasant personalities.
Baby chicks are grayish brown with black stripes down their backs.
Have a look at the video of a Wyandotte raiser talking about his 4-month-old Wyandotte chickens.
Personality Assessment of Golden-Laced Wyandotte Chicken Breed
Golden wyandottes are known for their gentle way. Their temperament is mellow and easygoing. These birds stay aware but are not nervous kind.
The roosters seldom get hostile or fussy. The hens like to set on a clutch of eggs to get them to peep. They will sit calmly on quite a spell till those chicks pip out.
With her patient brooding, a golden Wyandotte mama raises up her little ones in her soft feathers. This mild manner suits them finely to a backyard flock. Young children can make nice friends with them too.
Golden Laced Wyandottes Serves Dual Purpose!
The Golden Laced is a versatile breed. It is well-suited for egg and meat production, making it ideal for small farms and homesteads.
Egg Production
The hens lay a good number of large brown eggs – around 200 medium to large-sized eggs a year on average. This egg production makes them a reliable backyard layer. They lay well in cold weather. Additionally, they continue to lay through winter better than other breeds.
The breed’s ornamental value is enhanced by its eye-catching lace feathers. This makes it a competitive contender at poultry shows. Their hardiness allows them to be exhibited extensively.
Meat Production
Roosters grow to a good 8-9 lb size, suitable for supplying a family dinner table. The meat is flavorful and tender. The broad breasts on both hens and roosters also mean there is a good yield of white breast meat.
The docile temperament is an advantage on small farms where working closely with the birds is required during processing. Wyandottes don’t become stressed easily.
Are Golden-Laced Wyandotte Chicken Breed Well Suited for Backyard?
The Golden Laced Wyandotte is a breed that is easy to care for and hardy. It is a great choice for raising because of these qualities.
These chickens thrive in various habitats and are hardy in winter. They have simple dietary preferences, requiring standard chicken feed, water, and occasional treats.
Here’s a table emphasizing their diet and nutrition requirements:
| Diet | Nutrition Requirements |
|---|---|
| High-quality chicken feed | Protein, vitamins, and minerals |
| Freshwater | Essential for hydration |
| Occasional treats (fruits, vegetables) | Additional nutrients and enrichment |
Golden-Laced Wyandottes and Their Temperature Tolerance
Golden Laced Wyandottes can handle both warm and cold weather pretty well. But let’s talk about their preference.
They like it best when it’s not too hot or too cold. They need shady spots and cold water to keep them from getting too hot. Make sure their house stays at a comfortable temperature. Kindly give them places to take dust baths to stay clean and keep bugs off.
Also, give them extra calcium with things like crushed oyster shells and rough bits they can eat when they need it.
Are Golden-Laced Wyandotte Hardy Enough?
The Golden Laced Wyandotte chickens are generally very healthy and hardy. They do not have any significant health issues to worry about.
However, they are susceptible to common issues such as mites, lice, or worm problems. It’s important to monitor your flock and promptly treat any health issues that may arise.
Pros And Cons of Keeping Golden-Laced Wyandotte in Backyard
Golden Laced Wyandotte is amazing for raising in the backyard. They’re good if you want to raise it commercially. Plus, they’re docile and friendly as well. However, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of having Wyandotted in the backyard.
Pros
- Good egg layers give you a steady supply of eggs.
- Easygoing and friendly, making them great pets.
- Have beautiful feather patterns, adding elegance to your backyard.
- Hardy and adaptable, able to handle various weather conditions.
Cons
- They can be broody, which might affect their egg production.
- They need plenty of space due to their large size.
3 Interesting Facts About the Golden-Laced Wyandotte
Well, I’ve told almost everything you should know about the breed. Here are some prolific facts about this chicken breed.
The Origins
- Golden laced wyandottes were first bred in New York state in the 1870s-80s by four breeders looking to create the ultimate dual-purpose fowl.
- They named the new breed after the indigenous Wyandot nation, which originally inhabited parts of New York state.
Their Dazzling Style
- Golden-laced wyandottes sport an eye-catching style with black feathers delicately laced in shimmering gold.
- Even the chicks stand out with their fuzzy black and yellow bumblebee-like stripes.
- The lacing serves a purpose beyond beauty by helping the birds better camouflage themselves.
Winning Personalities
- Despite their flashy looks, golden-laced wyandottes tend towards mellow, docile behaviors in the coop and run.
- They mix well with newcomers and children thanks to their peaceful, non-aggressive nature.
- You’re more likely to find them happily scratching and foraging than stirring up trouble.
Related Readings:
- Silver-Laced Wyandotte Chicken Breed
- Raising Deathlayer Chicken With Proper Care
- Physical Appearance Of The Blue Isbar Chicken
FAQs
A little more insight on the chicken breed. Hope this Q&A will help you a lot.
Q: How Much Space Does Golden Laced Wyandotte Chicken Need?
Allow at least 10 square feet inside the coop and 8-10 square feet in the outdoor run per bird. As medium-heavy fowl, they appreciate room to move about comfortably.
Provide enough space for all flock members to easily access food, water, perches, and nesting boxes.
Q: Are golden-laced Wyandotte Rare?
Golden-laced wyandottes were considered a rare chicken breed. According to the Livestock Conservancy organization, it was rare. However, they are not at immediate risk as other heritage poultry breeds are after 2016. Their global population sits between 20k and 25k breeding birds.
Wrap Up
The Golden Laced Wyandotte Chicken Breed is an elegant and hardy heritage chicken breed. Developed in the late 1800s in New York, these chickens are great egg layers and also produce tasty meat. Though once rare, Golden Laced Wyandottes are making a comeback thanks to their versatility and suitability.
If you’re looking for a dual-purpose chicken, the Golden Laced Wyandotte is a winning choice. They lay well, withstand weather extremes, and add beauty to your flock. Raising these chickens connects us to history while supplying eggs and meat!
