If you’re new to chicken keeping or are simply interested in learning more about different breeds of chickens, you may be surprised to know that not all eggs are the same. While the majority of eggs produced for commercial consumption are brown or white, there are plenty of chicken breeds that lay eggs in hues ranging from blue and green to pink and speckled. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular chicken breeds that lay colored eggs and give you some fascinating insight into this little-known aspect of poultry keeping.
Blue and Green Eggs from the Ameraucana and Easter Egger Breeds
One of the most distinctive-looking breeds of chicken that lays colored eggs is the Ameraucana. These fascinating birds have fluffy cheeks, a black beard, and a distinctive tail shape. While you might think it’s their appearance that makes Ameraucanas a popular choice among backyard chicken keepers, it’s their eggs that are the real draw. Ameraucanas lay eggs in a range of shades, from pale blue to turquoise and green. This is due to a genetic quirk that causes the chicken’s shells to have a blue pigment called oocyanin.
Another breed that is well-known for laying blue and green eggs is the Easter Egger. While this isn’t an official breed recognized by the American Poultry Association (APA), it’s a term commonly used to describe chickens that lay eggs in a range of colors and exhibit the blue eggshell gene – including blue, green, and even pinkish-brown.
Speckled and Creamy-Colored Eggs from the Marans Breed
For those who prefer a more subtle-looking egg, the Marans breed may be the perfect choice. With their distinctive feather coloring, these French chickens have become known for their rich, chocolate-brown eggs. However, Marans also lay eggs in shades of cream, tan, and even a subtle pastel pink. What really sets their eggs apart is the unique speckling pattern on the surface of the shells, reminiscent of an artist’s brushstrokes.
The Dark Brown Eggs from the Welsummer Breed
Another breed known for its distinctive-colored eggs is Welsummer. These Dutch birds lay eggs that have a reddish-brown hue, giving them a rustic, old-fashioned appearance. The deep color of their eggs is due to the presence of a pigment called protoporphyrin. Interestingly, this same pigment is responsible for the reddish color you may see in a bruise or sunburn. The Welsummer breed is also known for their attractive feather colors, with a striking pattern of black and gold.
Concluding Thoughts on Chicken Breeds and Colored Eggs
While all chicken eggs are delicious and nutritious, there’s something undeniably appealing about a basket full of eggs in different hues. If you’re interested in keeping chickens and want to add some variety to your egg collection, consider one of the breeds we’ve discussed above. Whether you’re drawn to the vivid turquoise eggs of the Ameraucana or the delicate speckled shells of the Marans, there’s a breed out there to suit every taste and preference.
FAQs About Chicken Breeds and Colored Eggs
Q: Are colored eggs more nutritious than white or brown eggs?
A: No, the color of an eggshell has no impact on its nutritional value.
Q: Can you tell what color eggs a chicken will lay based on its breed?
A: Generally speaking, yes. Different breeds have different genes that determine the color of their eggshells.
Q: Will adding a rooster to our flock affect the color of our eggs?
A: No, the color of a chicken’s eggs is determined by its genetics and not affected by mating with a rooster.
Q: Can we eat colored eggs?
A: Yes, colored eggs are perfectly safe and delicious to eat. The only difference is the color of the shell.
Overall, whether you’re interested in the genetics of chicken egg color or simply want to add some visual interest to your egg basket, there’s a lot to learn and appreciate about the different colored eggs that chicken breeds produce. We hope this article has helped shed some light on the topic and inspired you to explore the many fascinating aspects of chicken keeping.
