Rhode isalnd Red's

[BK79]

as I understand it there are three versions of "RIR"?
"Production", "Pure bred" and "Heritage"
I like the look of the "Heritage" breed of RIR, but not too many people around who have them for sale.
is the "production" breed of RIR a hybrid of some sort, what difference is there between the "Pure bred"?

 

[muircheartaigh]

As far as I know "production reds" are a hybrid of RIRs and New Hampshire reds, and evidently sometimes crossed with leghorns (unconfirmed). They are prolific layers and vary a good deal in appearance, thus no breed standard. One stark contrast I notice btw my priduction reds and RIRs is the color of the feet, where the RIRs have much yellower feet. As far as there being a third type, I'm not sure. Perhaps it's a distinction between utility lines and show bird lines where the utility line is bred to fulfill it's original dual purpose abilities? Either way, both bird types make an excellent flock addition.

 

[BK79]

If the "production" RIRs are a hybrid...means they will be more quieter and tamer. See a big difference between my RSL hens in my yard and a friends RIR's at his place in terms of noise. My RSL don't make a peep.