Chicken Breed Spotlight: The Silver Leghorn Breed
Chicken keeping has become a popular hobby among suburbanites, and one of the most important decisions to make when starting a flock is choosing the right breeds to add to your chicken coop. But with so many different breeds of chickens, how do you know what to choose?
In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about Silver Leghorn chickens, including their personality, egg production, and lifespan. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or a newcomer to the hobby, this comprehensive guide will help you decide if Silver Leghorns are the right breed for you and your flock.
But if you just want the TLDR version, we have a handy table below with our summary.
| Breed | Silver Leghorn |
| Adult size | Medium breed, weighing 2-3kg |
| Eggs per year | 280-320 |
| Eggs per week | 5-6 |
| Silver Leghorn egg size | Large eggs |
| Silver Leghorn egg colour | white eggs |
| Lifespan | 5-8 years |
| Suitable for backyard flocks? | Yes |
How big do Silver Leghorn chickens get?
Silver Leghorns are a Medium-sized chicken breed, with adult hens weighing around 2-3kg.
What do Silver Leghorn chickens look like?
They have sleek feathers with a silver-white colour and a distinctive single comb.
The personality and temperament of Silver Leghorn chickens
In terms of personality, Silver Leghorns are active, alert, and curious birds. They are known for their hardiness and are great foragers, which can be a benefit for backyard flocks. They are also quite social and enjoy being around other birds and humans, but can be shy and skittish at times.
How many eggs do Silver Leghorns lay per year?
When it comes to egg laying, Silver Leghorn hens lay around 280-320 eggs per year, which averages out to about 5-6 eggs per week. Silver Leghorns lay Large eggs that are white in colour. So, if you’re looking for a breed of chicken that will give you a fresh egg almost daily, Silver Leghorns will not disappoint.
When do Silver Leghorn hens start laying eggs?
It varies, but generally speaking, Silver Leghorns are ready to lay their eggs by 18-22 weeks of age. And despite what you may have heard, you don’t need Silver Leghorn roosters in order for Silver Leghorn hens to start laying eggs.
How long do Silver Leghorn chickens live?
On average, Silver Leghorn chickens have a lifespan ranging anywhere from 5-8 years. However, it’s worth noting that the lifespan of a chicken can depend on various factors such as diet, living conditions, and overall health. Chickens that are well cared for and kept in a safe, clean environment with a balanced diet can often live longer than those that are neglected or kept in poor conditions.
Conclusion: are Silver Leghorn chickens the next addition to your chicken coop?
Overall, Silver Leghorn chickens make a wonderful addition to any flock’s coop and are a great option for beginner backyard chicken keepers. With the right care and attention, Silver Leghorns will provide you with many years of enjoyment.
