New Hampshire Hens

New Hampshire Hen

The New Hampshire hen is a hardworking and reliable breed known for her exceptional egg-laying abilities and beautiful reddish-brown feathers. Originating in the United States, the New Hampshire is a dual-purpose breed prized for both its strong production of brown eggs and its flavorful meat. This breed’s calm and friendly temperament makes it a popular choice for both novice and experienced poultry keepers.

Appearance:

• Size: Medium-sized with a sturdy, well-proportioned body.
• Feathering: Rich, reddish-brown feathers that are soft and dense, contributing to a compact and efficient appearance.
• Color Varieties: Primarily reddish-brown feathers, which become deeper and more intense with age.
• Comb: Single comb, medium-sized and red.
• Legs/Feet: Yellow legs with clean, unfeathered feet.

Temperament:

• Calm, friendly, and social — New Hampshire hens are known for being easy to handle and manage.
• They are curious and active, making them excellent foragers, but also adapt well to confined spaces.
• Typically very calm around humans and other animals, they get along well in mixed flocks.

Egg Production:

• Exceptional egg layers — New Hampshire hens are highly valued for their ability to produce large brown eggs consistently.
• They typically lay 250–300 eggs per year, making them a reliable choice for those looking for a steady supply of eggs.
• They tend to lay early in life and continue to produce well into their older years.
• Excellent layers through the winter months, making them one of the top choices for year-round egg production.

Purpose:

• Dual-purpose breed — New Hampshire hens are raised for both egg production and meat.
• Eggs: Their excellent egg-laying ability makes them a reliable layer in backyard flocks.
• Meat: They also produce flavorful, tender meat, making them a solid option for those who want a breed that serves both purposes.

Care Notes:

• Hardy and adaptable to a range of climates, though they do best with access to shelter from extreme cold or heat.
• Active foragers that benefit from free-range environments, but they can also thrive in confined spaces if provided with adequate care.
• New Hampshire hens are generally low-maintenance and do well in both small and large flocks.