Chicken Breed History:

The Australorp Breed was developed in Australia at the end of the nineteenth century with Black Orpington stock from England. The breed also has genes from Rhode Island Red, White Leghorn, Langshan and Minorca crosses. The purpose of the breed was as a “utility” chicken for both high egg production and meat. It was originally known as the Black Utility Orpingtons. The breed was standardized after World War One and admitted to the Standard of Perfection in 1929 in England under the fitting name Australorp. By the end of World War Two, Australian poultry breeders wrote up their own breed standards, which have been accepted worldwide. Historically, Australorps have been egg-laying champions: an Australorp hen once laid 364 eggs in 365 days. They are an exceptionally beautiful bird, quite big, with black glossy feathers that have a green sheen and huge black soulful eyes.

Chicken Breed Comments / Experience:

I find Australorps to be very easy going chickens. They are friendly, quiet and very good egg layers, laying as many as 300 eggs a year. They do well with other breeds and weather the winter months well. Two of my girls went broody at the same time and sat in the same nest together, taking turns giving each other a break to eat and drink. They even sat on other chickens' eggs and raised their chicks as well. Australorps make great moms. The Roos, to me, are quieter than other breeds. I would recommend Australorps to newbies and someone wanting to add to their flock. -Rooster Pic is from Micki...