History: The White Leghorn is a variety of chicken that is used for commercial egg production. It is a Mediterranean breed from Livorno, Italy. It is a relatively cold hardy chicken in my experience but I wouldn't say it's immune to cold temperatures.
Prized for its consistent egg-laying abilities as well as its pretty color, the White Leghorn is not only valued in the farming industry but is also appreciated by the backyard chicken community.
Appearance: The White Leghorn's general appearance is a single comb that falls slightly over the side of the head, white earlobes and plumage, and bright yellow legs and beak. It is a slighter breed, and is very agile. This can sometimes lead to fence-jumping so you may want to clip its wings.
Personality: It also tends to be nervous and vocal, and will squawk about anything and everything. They're generally not people-lovers, however, if you spend enough time with them they can become great friends.
Eggs: The eggs of the White Leghorn are (shocker) white. They are usually medium to large eggs in size, but size depends on the particular bird. I've had some that lay small and oval, some that lay large and round. Nutrition and age can also be a factor.
Other Notes: Although the White Leghorn is a production breed, it should not be pushed to lay more eggs than it can. This includes artificial methods like hormones and other things. Please respect your birds. Leghorns (and most laying breeds) also need a high-protein diet. You can find special layer feed at your local farm store. Have fun with your Leghorns and remember this information!
Prized for its consistent egg-laying abilities as well as its pretty color, the White Leghorn is not only valued in the farming industry but is also appreciated by the backyard chicken community.
Appearance: The White Leghorn's general appearance is a single comb that falls slightly over the side of the head, white earlobes and plumage, and bright yellow legs and beak. It is a slighter breed, and is very agile. This can sometimes lead to fence-jumping so you may want to clip its wings.
Personality: It also tends to be nervous and vocal, and will squawk about anything and everything. They're generally not people-lovers, however, if you spend enough time with them they can become great friends.
Eggs: The eggs of the White Leghorn are (shocker) white. They are usually medium to large eggs in size, but size depends on the particular bird. I've had some that lay small and oval, some that lay large and round. Nutrition and age can also be a factor.
Other Notes: Although the White Leghorn is a production breed, it should not be pushed to lay more eggs than it can. This includes artificial methods like hormones and other things. Please respect your birds. Leghorns (and most laying breeds) also need a high-protein diet. You can find special layer feed at your local farm store. Have fun with your Leghorns and remember this information!
