Meet the chicken breed that set numerous egg-laying records in the early 1900s — the Australorp! The Australorp is calm and typically fine with being handled. It has a single comb and is classified as a heavy breed.
- ColorBlack
- Skin ColorWhite
- LifespanAbout 6 to 10 years
- Weight6.5 to 8.5 pounds
Origin
This breed got its start in England as the Orpington. In the late 1800s, it was imported to Australia where breeders selected for egg-laying ability. Eventually, it morphed away from pure Orpington to become the Australorp breed.
Housing And Care
Housing for Australorps is the same as all chickens need. A chicken coop or shed must provide safety, perches, nest boxes, room to move, be dry, and be ventilated but not drafty. It must contain accessories, such as water and food dispensers. Chickens also require an area for dust bathing, which could be in a run that is part of the coop, attached to the coop, or a fenced area adjacent to the coop.
Food is another basic necessity. Nutritious food is a must. Some chicken breeds also forage when given access to safe, fenced-in areas. Foraging is enjoyable and a fun activity for some breeds, but foraging can never take the place of nutritious chicken food. Supplements also help for different needs. We humbly suggest Booster Berries Enrich for egg laying support, Booster Berries Radiate for feather health, and Booster Berries Senior for older chickens.
Showing And Personality
The Australorp was recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1929. It is available in both bantam and large fowl sizes. In 2023, the Livestock Conservancy graduated the Australorp off of its Conservation Priority List because its population numbers had improved significantly.
All chickens are individuals. Temperament, noise level, egg production, size, and other characteristics can vary. Chickens typically live 7 to 9 years. The information below is for the large fowl Australorp, not the smaller bantam.
Australorp Chicken Overview
Purpose: Egg laying and meat
Egg Production: Excellent (about 250 to 300 eggs per year)
Egg Size & Color: Large, brown
Skin Color: White
Size: Classified as Large Fowl by the American Poultry Association; Listed as 6.5 to 8.5 pounds by Livestock Conservancy
Temperament: Calm and friendly
Noise Level: Moderate
Climate Needs: Can adapt to hot or cold, but favors cooler.
Origin: Australia (English class)
Recognized Variety: Black