Rhode Island Red
by Deena Stoddard
Title
Rhode Island Red
Artist
Deena Stoddard
Medium
Photograph - Photograph
Description
The Rhode Island Red is a breed of chicken raised for meat and eggs, and also as show birds. They are a popular choice for backyard flocks because of their egg laying abilities and hardiness.
The bird's feathers are rust-colored, however darker shades are known, including maroon bordering on black. Their eyes are red-orange and they have yellow feet, with reddish-brown beaks. Chicks are a light red to tan color.
The Rhode Island Red were originally bred in Adamsville, a village which is part of Little Compton, Rhode Island. One of the foundation sires of the breed was a black-breasted red Malay cock which was imported from England. This cock is on display at the Smithsonian Institution as the father of the Rhode Island Red breed.
Frequent layers, Rhode Island Reds are noted for their brown eggs. Although they can sometimes be stubborn, they can end up producing up to 275 eggs a year but a healthy one can lay more. When free ranged, their first year eggs can be too large to fit comfortably in standard or medium egg cartons. Healthy hens can lay up to 5-6 eggs per week depending on their care and treatment. Rhode Island Red hens lay many more eggs than an average hen if provided plenty of quality feed.
The Rhode Island Red is the state bird of Rhode Island.
All images © 2011-2020 Deena Stoddard ~ All Rights Reserved
Uploaded
November 12th, 2013
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