Chickens breed profile
Orpington (Buff)
Also known as: Buff Orpington
- Heritage dual-purpose
- England
- large
- Temperament: docile
- Heritage
- Conservancy: Recovering
Buff Orpington is the gentlest of the dual-purpose homestead chickens — frequent broodies, excellent mothers if natural-incubation is desired, and a calm disposition that makes them family favorites. Heat-sensitive vs. lighter-plumaged breeds.
Production & size
Mature size and output.
Female weight
7–8.5 lbs
Male weight
9–11 lbs
Eggs/year
200
Egg color
brown
Reproductive traits
Gestation
21 days
Seasonality
year round
Maternal
excellent
Health & climate
Parasite resistance
good
Heat tolerance
fair
Cold hardiness
excellent
Humidity tolerance
good
Common health concerns
- Heavy fluffy plumage — heat stress in summer; egg production drops in heat
Management requirements
Experience
beginner friendly
Housing
basic shelter
Fencing
standard
Feed system
pasture, grain supplement
Market access
Commercial market
fair
Direct-market appeal
excellent
Premium potential
Yes
Primary purposes