The Welsummer enjoys foraging and is known for laying dark brown, sometimes speckled eggs, that are said to resemble terra-cotta or chocolate. This is a beautiful, docile breed with a single comb. It’s classified as a light breed.
- ColorRed partridge
- Skin ColorYellow
- LifespanAbout 6 to 9 years
- Weight4.5 to 6.5 pounds
Origin
The Welsummer chicken hails from the town of Welsum in the Netherlands. It debuted at the World Poultry Congress in Holland in 1921.
Housing And Care
Housing for the Welsummer 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 Welsummer was recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1991.
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 Welsummer, not the smaller bantam.
Welsummer Chicken Overview
Purpose: Egg laying and meat
Egg Production: Good (about 160 to 200 eggs per year)
Egg Size & Color: Very large, varying shades of brown with varying spackling
Skin Color: Yellow
Size: Classified as Large Fowl by the American Poultry Association; 4.5 to 6.5 pounds
Temperament: Active and intelligent
Noise Level: Moderate
Climate Needs: Best in cooler climates
Origin: The Netherlands (Continental class)
Recognized Variety: Only One Variety (Red Partridge)
