The Plymouth Rock can be broody and makes a good pet in addition to its qualities as an egg layer and for the table. It was an important protein source during WWII. It’s classified as a heavy breed and has a single comb.
- ColorBarred, Blue, Buff, Columbian, Partridge, Silver Penciled, White
- Skin ColorYellow
- LifespanAbout 8 to 10 years
- Weight7.5 to 9.5 pounds
Origin
Although the Plymouth Rock comes in several varieties today, the barred Plymouth Rock was the one that introduced the breed to the world in 1869. According to the Plymouth Rock Fanciers Club website, the goal of the breeder was to create “a breed that had superior economic qualities, yet maintained a regal character.”
Housing And Care
Housing for Plymouth Rocks 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 first Plymouth Rock was recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1874, the first year it published its Standard Of Perfection. It is available in both bantam and large fowl sizes. In 2023, the Plymouth Rock graduated from the Conservation Priority List published by The Livestock Conservancy 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 Plymouth Rock, not the smaller bantam.
Plymouth Rock Chicken Overview
Purpose: Egg laying and meat
Egg Production: Very good (about 200 eggs per year)
Egg Size & Color: Large, brown
Skin Color: Yellow
Size: Classified as Large Fowl by the American Poultry Association; Listed as 7.5 to 9.5 pounds by Livestock Conservancy
Temperament: Friendly and easygoing
Noise Level: Moderate
Climate Needs: Adaptable to hot or cold
Origin: United States (American class)
Recognized Varieties: Barred, Blue, Buff, Columbian, Partridge, Silver Penciled, White
