Dark Red Rhode Island Reds

[Statikat]

This is probably a really stupid question, but I'm curious. The majority of my birds are Reds. Two, a rooster and a hen, are much darker than the rest. Even petting these birds, they're different. They're much softer, almost rabbit like. Why such a difference?

 

[JohnsonHomested]

Heritage Reds? How dark are they?

 

[Statikat]

The others are red, some reddish orange. These two are like a dark cherry color. Very pretty.

 

[JohnsonHomested]

"Google" Heritage Rhode Island Red and compare pictures. The lighter colors are Production Reds. I found the differences explained in the Breeds section of BYC.

 

[Statikat]

Will do! Thank you!

 

[JohnsonHomested]

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/407294/the-heritage-rhode-island-red-site

Here are some members showing off pictures of their Heritage Rhode Island Reds

 

[3riverschick]

Hi Statikat!

Consider this a friendly invitation to come over to the Heritage Large Fowl discussion on BYC.

There are veteran RIR breeders there who can answer all your questions

and counsel you, if you wish, on breeding your birds. Just an excellent no-flames thread for RIR folk
who want to breed the historic color.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/400344/heritage-large-fowl-thread/7080
Be looking for ya there,
Karen in western PA, USA