Buff Orpington Exhibition Type

Description

Breed Facts

• Poultry Show Class: English Class
• Weights: Hen—–8 lbs
  Rooster——10 lbs
  Pullet—7 lbs
  Cockerel—-8½ lbs
• Purpose and Type: Exhibition; also pet, egg laying, meat source
• Egg Shell Color: Brown
• Egg Production: 200 eggs per year (estimates only, see FAQ)
• Egg Size: Medium
• Temperament: Docile
• Gender Accuracy: 85-90%
• Fertility Percentage: 65-80%
• Broody: Setter
• Mating Ratio: 6 Females to 1 Male
• Roost Height: 2 to 4 feet
• Country of Origin: England
• APA: Yes, Recognized by the American Standard of Perfection in 1902
• TLC: No

Description

The Orpington breed was developed in Orpington, England, as a hardy, fast growing, dual-purpose chicken. In the United States the first buff Orpingtons appeared at exhibition in 1899. Three years later, the American Poultry Association Standard of Perfection admitted the buff Orpington exhibition type in 1902. Buff was the first of the four Standard color varieties (buff, black, white, and blue), and is still the most popular.

For exhibition, proper plumage is essential. The feathers should be broad and smooth, but without excessive length or fluff. The skin, beak, shanks, and feet are white.

The Orpington is a large breed — mature males weigh 10 pounds, mature females weigh 8 pounds. Yet these massive chickens in general have a calm disposition. The hens lay medium-size eggs in shades of light to dark brown. They tend toward broodiness and make excellent mothers.

For information about exhibiting Orpington chickens visit the United Orpington Club website.