Discover 5 Quietest Chicken Breeds
For many backyard chicken keepers, the noise level is a major consideration when choosing breeds. Although chickens are naturally vocal creatures, some species are known to be quieter and gentler than others.
What if you ask me about the quietest chicken breeds? Well, I recommend the Australorp, Orpington, Silkies, Brahma, and some other chicken breeds. They’re quiet, attractive looking, hardy, and, in some cases, good layers as well.
Keep on going to learn all the in-depth things about these two chicken breeds.
Table of Contents
Pick 1 – Australorp – The Quietest Chicken Breed!
The Australorp chicken breed got its start in Australia in the early 1900s. In 1890, breeders mixed different types of chickens, such as the Orpington, Langshan, and Plymouth Rock breeds. They came up with a black feathered chicken that turned out to be a fantastic egg layer.
In fact, back in the 1920s, one special Australorp hen laid 364 eggs in just 365 days! Yep, that set a world record for egg-laying that still stands today.
Australorps are good egg layers and have a friendly personality. One of their standout qualities is their quiet nature.
Here’s a quick overview of the key traits of the Australorp chicken:
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Gallus gallus domesticus |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Origin | Australia |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Varieties | Black, Blue, White |
| Purpose | Dual-purpose breed (eggs and meat) |
| Distributions | Worldwide |
| Reproduction | Sexual maturity at 5-6 months. 250 eggs annually. |
| Lifespan | 7-10 years |
| Adaptability | Tolerates cold climates well. Heat tolerant. |
Personality Assessment of Australorp Chickens
Australorp chickens have a reputation for being extremely docile, calm chickens. They rarely make much noise and tend to be non-aggressive and mellow. Many chicken keepers describe them as one of the quiet and gentle breeds.
While not chatterboxes, they will make the occasional soft clucking noise or quiet murmur. The hens are quiet nesters and won’t loudly announce when they’ve laid an egg.
Overall, Australorps are tranquil, quiet chickens perfect for an urban or suburban backyard.
Reproduction And Breeding
The breeding and egg-laying season for Australorps can be a long one! The best time to breed Australorps is February to May. That’s when the chickens are healthiest.
Australorps start laying eggs early – around six months old. And the hens lay a whole lot of eggs – about 250-300 light brown ones every year! That’s almost one egg every day.
What Do Australorp Chickens Eat?
Regarding their dietary needs, Australorps are not picky eaters. Here are feeding guidelines for Australorp.
Chicks (0-8 weeks)
- Feed a 20-21% protein chick starter feed.
- Offer finely crumbled hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
- Provide fresh water daily in chick founts.
Pullets (8-20 weeks)
- At 8 weeks, switch to an 18% protein grower feed.
- Continue offering grower feed free-choice.
- Provide fresh greens like kale, spinach, and sprouts.
- Offer live mealworms and crickets for extra protein.
- Give fruits like berries and melons as treats.
Laying Hens
- Transition to a 16% layer feed after the first egg is laid.
- Feed approximately 1/4 cup layer feed per hen daily.
- Supplement your diet with calcium sources like oyster shells.
- Allow hens to forage on insects, greens, and seeds.
- Offer vegetable scraps and fruit as treats.
- Provide fresh, clean water at all times.
Australorps are excellent foragers, so allow them to supplement their diet through free-ranging. Ensure proper nutrition at each growth stage for healthy chickens.
Are Australops Prone to Illness?
Not really. They’re quite hardy. Some health issues Australorps may be prone to include:
- Obesity if overfed
- Lice and mites
- Respiratory illnesses
- Egg binding
Overall, their calm temperament and quiet nature make them a great addition to a backyard flock looking for peace!
Pick 2 – Orpington Chickens – Quitest And Sweetest!
Originally hailing from England. The Orpington chicken breed earned popularity in the late 1800s for being an excellent dual-purpose fowl raised for both eggs and meat.
This elegant breed was developed in the late 19th century by William Cook of Orpington, Kent. Cook set out to create a dual-purpose breed that was both a productive layer of eggs and a meat provider. He crossed a Minorca and Black Plymouth Rock to achieve his goal.
Here’s a quick overview of the key traits of the Orpington chicken:
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Gallus gallus domesticus |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Varieties | Buff, Black, Blue, White |
| Purpose | Dual-purpose breed (eggs and meat) |
| Distributions | Worldwide |
| Reproduction | Sexual maturity at 5-6 months. Up to 250 eggs annually. |
| Lifespan | 7-10 years |
| Adaptability | Cold, hardy, and heat sensitive. |
Personality: Orpingtons are Sweethearts!
Orpingtons are quintessential gentle and cute. They have a mellow, easygoing personality and are extremely quiet chickens who rarely make much noise.
They’ll softly cluck amongst themselves but won’t chatter loudly or squawk persistently. The hens lay eggs quietly and discretely, similar to the previous breed. Tell me how on earth such chickens won’t be ideal for raising in the backyard!
This video might help you understand Orpington better:
Reproduction and Breeding
February to May is the breeding season mainly. That’s when the hens are healthiest and lay the best eggs. But you can hatch chicks year-round as long as the ladies are laying.
Orpington hens can lay 200-250 creamy brown eggs every year. That’s around 4 eggs each week per hen! Their laying might slow down in winter. Sometimes, they even take a break when it’s really cold out.
Young Orpington pullets start laying at 5 to 7 months old – pretty early! And the hens keep laying for 5 to 10 years, with the most eggs in their first couple of years. Yep, Orpington chickens sure are great egg layers!
Dietary Care for Orpington Chickens
Orpington chickens have pretty simple dietary needs – they can eat the same feed as the rest of your flock! Let’s take a look at their dietary guidelines:
Baby Chicks (0-8 weeks)
- Feed a 21% protein chick starter feed. This gives chicks the extra protein they need for growth.
- Make feed available at all times in shallow chick feeders.
- Replace water daily and use chick founts to reduce drowning.
- Good treats options: Finely crumbled hard-boiled egg, mealworms, chopped greens
Pullets (8 weeks to first egg)
- Switch to an 18% protein grower feed at eight weeks old. This has less protein than the starter but still supports growth.
- Continue providing feed in pullet feeders and refresh water daily.
- Offer treats like mealworms, sprouts, chopped fruits and veggies.
Laying Hens (after first egg)
- At first egg, transition hens to a 16% layer feed. This provides key nutrients for egg production.
- Feed approximately 1/4 cup layer feed per hen daily.
- Supplement with calcium sources like oyster shells and grit.
- Treats to support egg production: beet greens, chickweed, berries, melons.
- Continue providing clean, fresh water at all times.
Your Orpingtons will grow into healthy, productive hens with proper nutrition at each stage! So, ensure they have all the necessary nutrients for better growth.
Are Orpingtons Prone to Illness?
Orpingtons are generally hardy. They have amazing cold tolerance. Still, they might face common chicken illnesses if being raised in an improper habitat or given an improper diet.
All in all, their famously calm and quiet disposition makes them the perfect backyard chickens for a more peaceful flock.
Pick 3 – Silkie Chickens – Quiet and Unique!
Silkie chickens are a distinct and beloved breed known for their fluffy plumage and gentle demeanor. Originating from China, these chickens are prized for their ornamental value and docile nature.
Here’s a quick overview:
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Gallus gallus domesticus |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Origin | China |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Varieties | White, Black, Blue, Buff, Partridge, Grey |
| Purpose | Ornamental breed (minimal egg production) |
| Distributions | Worldwide |
Personality Assessment of Silkies
Silkies are incredibly gentle and quiet chickens. They rarely make loud noises and are known for their calm demeanor. These birds are friendly and often enjoy human company, making them popular as pets or for show.
Reproduction and Breeding
Silkies are known to be broody and make excellent mothers. They have a moderate egg-laying capacity, producing around 100-120 eggs per year. Sexual maturity is reached at 7-9 months, and they are adaptable to various climates.
Dietary Preferences for Silkie Chickens
Silkie chickens, like other breeds, require a well-balanced diet to maintain their health and productivity. Here’s a detailed guide on their dietary needs:
Baby Chicks (0-8 weeks)
- Feed: Provide a 20-21% protein chick starter feed.
- Treats: Finely crumbled hard-boiled eggs, mealworms, and chopped greens can be given occasionally.
- Water: Fresh water should be available at all times.
Pullets (8 weeks to first egg)
- Feed: Transition to an 18% protein grower feed at eight weeks.
- Treats: Offer mealworms, sprouts, chopped fruits, and vegetables.
- Water: Ensure clean, fresh water is always available.
Laying Hens
- Feed: Switch to a 16% layer feed after the first egg is laid.
- Amount: Approximately 1/4 cup of layer feed per hen daily.
- Supplements: Provide calcium sources like oyster shells.
- Treats: Allow hens to forage and offer vegetable scraps, fruit, and live insects.
- Water: Keep water clean and available at all times.
Are Silkies Prone to Illness?
Silkies have good disease resistance overall but may require careful attention to their fluffy feathers to prevent mites and lice infestations.
Pick 4 – Wyandotte Chickens – Quiet and Robust!
Wyandotte chickens are a hardy American breed known for their beautiful plumage and dual-purpose capabilities. Developed in the late 19th century, they are favored for their quiet nature and resilience.
Here’s an overview:
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Gallus gallus domesticus |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Origin | United States |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Varieties | Silver Laced, Golden Laced, Blue, Black, White, Buff, Partridge, Columbian, Silver Penciled |
| Purpose | Dual-purpose breed (eggs and meat) |
| Distributions | Worldwide |
Personality Assessment of Wyandotte Chickens
Wyandottes are known for their calm and quiet demeanor. They are friendly and easygoing, making them suitable for both backyard settings and rural farms. They are not overly vocal and adapt well to confinement or free-ranging environments.
Reproduction and Breeding
Wyandottes reach sexual maturity at 5-6 months and are reliable egg layers, producing approximately 200-220 brown eggs annually. They are known for their broodiness and ability to hatch and raise chicks effectively.
Dietary Preferences of Wyandotte Chickens
Wyandotte chickens also need a balanced diet to thrive. Here’s a comprehensive look at their dietary requirements:
Baby Chicks (0-8 weeks)
- Feed: Start with a 21% protein chick starter feed.
- Treats: Finely crumbled hard-boiled eggs, mealworms, and chopped greens are good occasional treats.
- Water: Ensure fresh water is always available.
Pullets (8 weeks to first egg)
- Feed: Move to an 18% protein grower feed at eight weeks.
- Treats: Include mealworms, sprouts, chopped fruits, and vegetables in their diet.
- Water: Provide clean, fresh water daily.
Laying Hens
- Feed: Transition to a 16% layer feed after the first egg.
- Amount: Around 1/4 cup of layer feed per hen daily.
- Supplements: Provide additional calcium sources like oyster shells.
- Treats: Allow hens to forage and offer vegetable scraps, fruit, and live insects.
- Water: Always ensure access to clean water.
Are Wyandotte Chickens Prone to Illness?
Wyandottes are generally hardy birds with good disease resistance. Proper coop maintenance and regular health checks help ensure their well-being.
Related Articles:
- Silver-Laced Wyandotte Chicken
- All About Golden-Laced Wyandotte Chicken Breed
- Discover the Blue-Laced Golden Wyandotte Chicken
Pick 5 – Brahma Chickens – Majestic and Gentle Giants!
Brahma chickens are one of the largest and most impressive breeds, known for their docile nature and striking appearance. Originally from the United States, they are popular for their size, calm temperament, and dual-purpose utility.
Here’s an in-depth look at the Brahma chicken:
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Gallus gallus domesticus |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Origin | United States (with origins tracing back to birds imported from China via the port of Shanghai) |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Varieties | Light, Dark, Buff |
| Purpose | Dual-purpose breed (eggs and meat) |
| Distributions | Worldwide |
Personality Assessment of Brahma Chickens
Brahma chickens are known for their gentle and calm demeanor. Despite their large size, they are friendly and easy to handle, making them a favorite among backyard chicken keepers. They are relatively quiet and seldom make loud noises, preferring to softly cluck and coo.
Reproduction and Breeding
Brahma chickens mature a bit slower than other breeds, typically reaching sexual maturity around 6-7 months of age. They are good layers, producing about 150-200 medium to large brown eggs annually. Brahmas are also excellent mothers and are known to go broody.
Dietary Preferences for Brahma Chickens
Brahma chickens, like other breeds, need a well-balanced diet to thrive. Here’s a guide to their dietary requirements:
Baby Chicks (0-8 weeks)
- Feed: Start with a 20-21% protein chick starter feed.
- Treats: Occasional treats such as finely crumbled hard-boiled eggs and mealworms.
- Water: Ensure fresh water is available at all times.
Pullets (8 weeks to first egg)
- Feed: Transition to an 18% protein grower feed at eight weeks.
- Treats: Offer mealworms, sprouts, chopped fruits, and vegetables.
- Water: Provide clean, fresh water daily.
Laying Hens
- Feed: Switch to a 16% layer feed after the first egg.
- Amount: Approximately 1/4 cup of layer feed per hen daily.
- Supplements: Provide additional calcium sources like oyster shells and grit.
- Treats: Allow hens to forage and offer vegetable scraps, fruit, and live insects.
- Water: Maintain access to clean water at all times.
Is Brahma Chickens Prone to Illness?
Brahma chickens are generally hardy and robust. However, due to their size and feathered feet, they can be prone to certain health issues:
- Foot Problems: Feathered feet can be susceptible to mud buildup and scaly leg mites.
- Respiratory Issues: Ensure good ventilation in the coop to prevent respiratory illnesses.
- General Care: Regular health checks, a clean living environment, and a balanced diet will help maintain their health.
5 Reasons Why You May Not Want Quiet Chickens
There are a couple of downsides to raising quiet chickens. We all know they’re quiet and gentle, mean no harm, have no neighborhood complaints, and make no noise. But here are some points that might force you to think twice.
- Quiet breeds can be harder to find at local feed stores and might be pricier.
- Since they won’t yell if threatened, you have to be diligent about protecting them from harm.
- Collecting eggs from quiet hens who don’t sing egg songs after laying is harder.
- Some folks enjoy talkative chickens who cluck and chatter all day long. Quiet birds aren’t as vocal.
- Quiet roosters may not loudly alert the flock about danger or intruders like hawks.
Bottom Line
All the breeds in this article are well known for their quiet and calm natures. Laidback personalities, soft vocalizations, excellent egg-laying capabilities, and hardiness – these are what made them start picking! Both breeds make wonderful additions to a peaceful backyard flock.
So, if you want to add tranquility to your coop, the Australorp and Orpington deserve your consideration! Feel free to get such chicken breeds on your farm or as a pet.
