The Rhode Island Red is one of the most popular breeds out there. Not only are they a heritage breed, but they are hardy, extremely healthy, easy to care for, and are dual purpose.
The Single Comb Rhode Island Red is currently one of the most popular brown egg-laying breeds. There are also Rhode Island Reds that are bred for show, which are a bit darker in color and have a lower egg production.
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Rhode Island Red Chicken Breed Quick Info
Rhode Island Red Chicken Description
| Rhode Island Red Type/Size: | Standard |
| Feather Color: | Brownish-red |
| Leg Type: | Clean |
| Leg Color: | Yellow |
| Skin Color: | Yellow |
| Rhode Island Red Ease of Raising/Keeping: | Easy |
| Rhode Island Red Special Care Needs: | No |
| Is the Rhode Island Red breed a common, rare, or protected breed of chicken? | Protected |
Rhode Island Red Use
| Meat | Yes |
| Eggs | Yes |
| Dual Purpose | Yes |
| Rhode Island Red Temperament: | Active |
| Rhode Island Red Ability/Likelihood to Free Range: | Yes |
Rhode Island Red Egg Production
| Egg Color | Brown |
| Egg Size | Large |
| Estimated Number of Eggs Per Year | 200-280 |
| Likeliness to Brood Eggs/Raise Chicks | Medium |
Rhode Island Red Meat Production
| Dressed Weight Male | 6 lbs. |
| Dressed Weight Female | 4 ½ lbs. |
Rhode Island Red Climate Tolerance
| Heat | Good |
| Cold | Excellent |
Rhode Island Red Age to Maturity
| Number of Months to Reach Full Size | 5 Months |
| Number of Months to Start Egg Laying | 5 Months |
| Number of Weeks/Months to Reach Meat Harvest Size | 5 Months |
Rhode Island Red Size at Maturity
| Male | 8 ½ lbs. |
| Female | 6 ½ lbs. |
Origins of the Rhode Island Red Chicken
This breed was developed by rural New England farmers in the 19th century. In 1854, sea Captain William Tripp brought home a Malay rooster and mated it to his hens. After noticing the offspring were unusually good egg layers, word got around, and the crossbreeding continued.
Eventually, the breed we know today as the Rhode Island Red emerged and was used for the purpose of both meat and egg production.
Some Things to Know About the Rhode Island Red Chicken
This heritage breed was inducted into the American Poultry Association in 1904. They are described as large, rectangular, and solid. Their wattles, ear lobes, and comb should all be red.
Their egg production is hard to beat. After World War II, the breed was split into two groups: Heritage and Industrial. Although both are fairly high-producing, the Industrial group beats out the Heritage with 5-6 eggs per week and 200-280 eggs per year.
How Easy is it to Keep Rhode Island Red Chickens?
Rhode Island Reds are somewhere in the middle of the road when it comes to temperament. They are extremely easy to keep and have excellent health and hardiness, especially when it comes to the cold weather of northern New England.
However, they are known to be somewhat active, pushy, and on the louder side. The roosters can be aggressive, so take that into consideration if you’re considering adding one to your flock.
Special Care and Considerations for Rhode Island Red Chickens
Rhode Island Reds are a fantastic bird to add to your flock. They are hardy, healthy, and require almost no special care to thrive and produce high-quality eggs and meat. This solid, dependable breed is perfect for first-time chicken owners or seasoned pros alike.
