Barred Rock Hens

Barred Rock Hen

The Barred Rock hen, also known as the Plymouth Rock, is one of the most popular and beloved chicken breeds. Known for their striking black-and-white striped plumage and friendly personality, Barred Rocks are ideal for backyard flocks, homesteads, and commercial egg production. They are reliable layers and their calm demeanor makes them easy to manage and handle.

Appearance:

• Size: Medium-sized with a sturdy, well-balanced body.
• Feathering: The most distinctive feature of the Barred Rock is its black-and-white striped or “barred” plumage, which gives it a unique, attractive appearance.
• Color Varieties: Primarily black and white stripes, though some individuals may show slight variations.
• Comb: Single comb, medium-sized and bright red.
• Legs/Feet: Yellow legs with clean, unfeathered feet.

Temperament:

• Friendly, docile, and social — Barred Rocks are known for their calm and easy-going temperament, making them a great choice for families and beginner chicken keepers.
• Affectionate and often enjoy human interaction, especially if handled gently from a young age.
• They are generally non-aggressive and get along well with other breeds, making them great additions to mixed flocks.

Egg Production:

• Outstanding egg layers — Barred Rocks are highly productive and reliable egg layers.
• They typically lay large brown eggs, often producing around 250–300 eggs per year.
• Their laying is consistent, even through colder months, making them great for year-round egg production.
• Barred Rocks begin laying early in life and are known for their long productive period.

Purpose:

• Dual-purpose breed — Barred Rocks are raised for both egg production and meat.
• Eggs: Renowned for being excellent egg layers, Barred Rocks provide a steady supply of large brown eggs.
• Meat: While primarily kept for eggs, they also produce tender, flavorful meat, making them a good dual-purpose bird for those who want both eggs and meat.

Care Notes:

• Hardy in various climates, Barred Rocks are adaptable to both hot and cold weather.
• Active foragers, they enjoy roaming and exploring, but can also thrive in confined spaces with appropriate care.
• Barred Rocks are low-maintenance, but ensuring they have access to a nutritious diet and sufficient space will keep them healthy and productive.