Rhode Island Red

The Rhode Island Red is arguably one of the most famous and all-time favorite American chicken breeds. Developed in the late 1800s in the states of Rhode Island and Massachusetts, the single comb variety was recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1904, and a lesser known rose comb variety was recognized in 1906. Today, the Rhode Island Red is the official state bird of Rhode Island, and it remains the only breed of chicken recognized as a state bird in the United States.

The Rhode Island Red was developed as a dual-purpose Heritage breed to lay a high number of eggs and dress out at a good size. While our Rhode Island Reds will breed true, our flock is listed as a production strain as it has been selectively bred for more efficient egg production and less broodiness. This flock is one of our best brown egg layers here at McMurray Hatchery.

Rhode Island Red chickens are hardy birds and a good choice for all areas across the United States, thriving under a variety of conditions. Hens are prolific brown egg layers and are easy to raise. Both hens and roosters have a single comb, yellow shanks and feet, and a rich mahogany body with black on their tail feathers. Hens are prolific brown egg layers, and males are great flock protectors. Rhode Islands will reach maturity at around 20 weeks, with hens averaging 6.5 lbs. and males averaging 8.5 lbs.

Rhode Island Red baby chicks are red in color with a reddish tip on the end of it's beak.