Leghorn Chicken Breeding
The Origin of Leghorn Chickens
Leghorn chickens are a distinguished Mediterranean breed originating from Italy, renowned for their prolific egg-laying capabilities and adaptability. At The Poodle and The Hen farm, we specialise in breeding White Leghorns, celebrated for their resilience and productivity.
Leghorns have become a staple in poultry farming worldwide. They are classified as soft feather light fowl and are prevalent in Australia, both in exhibitions and backyard flocks.
Leghorns are generally quite hardy birds, suitable for most climates, however due to the size of their combs, frostbite can be an issue in freezing conditions.
All the Leghorns at The Poodle and The Hen farm are white and have bright red to orange eyes, yellow legs, big red combs and white lobes.
Leghorns are one of our favorite breeds and we highly recommend them to almost all chicken lovers but especially those who are looking for quality, large white eggs.
Buying Leghorn Chickens
If you're interested in adding Leghorns to your flock, we periodically have birds available for purchase. Join our poultry waitlist or subscribe to our mailing list to be among the first to know when our chickens are available.
We’re happy to arrange transportation, coordinate with your preferred shipping partner, or facilitate local pick-up. If you're ready to start or expand your flock with Leghorn chickens, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
Enquire Now About Leghorn Chickens For Sale
Why Choose Leghorn Chickens?
Leghorns are one of our favorite breeds and we highly recommend them to almost all chicken lovers. Here are some of the reasons we love this chicken breed for both backyard enthusiasts and show exhibitors:
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1. Unmatched Egg Production
One of the standout features of Leghorn hens is their exceptional egg-laying ability. They lay large white eggs, weighing approximately 75 grams, and in their prime produce around 250-300 eggs per year. They start laying at around 24-26 weeks of age and can continue to lay up until 6-7 years of age when properly cared for.
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2. Temperament and Behaviour
Leghorns are highly independent birds that require minimal care. As a hardy breed, they thrive in a range of climates and are known for their resilience. Leghorns have good size wings that allow them to fly quite well, especially when they’re younger and not completely filled out. This means they can be quite flighty and are able to fly up trees or over fences without much trouble at all. When handled regularly they are very tame placid birds.
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3. Great foragers
Leghorns excel at free-ranging and helping control pests in the backyard while reducing feed costs. As active and resourceful foragers, they are always on the move in search of tasty snacks like fresh green grass, bugs, worms and weeds.
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4. Great for All Experience Levels
Whether you're new to chicken keeping or a seasoned poultry enthusiast, Leghorns are a fantastic addition to any flock. Their impressive egg production and resilience make them a reliable choice for backyard keepers and breeders alike.
Leghorn Cockerels & Cock Birds
Leghorn cockerels and cock birds are striking in appearance, with tall, upright postures, large single combs, and bright white plumage. They are active, alert, and naturally protective of their flock.
While they are not typically aggressive, they can be spirited and energetic, making them well-suited for free-ranging environments. Leghorn roosters are known for their strong foraging instincts and keen awareness of their surroundings, helping to keep hens safe.
They can grow to over 4 kg when fully matured, making them a substantial presence in the flock.
Leghorn Hens & Pullets
Leghorn hens and pullets are best known for their exceptional egg-laying abilities, producing around 250–300 large white eggs per year.
They don’t often go broody and generally have high fertility rates which makes them an easy fowl to breed. They start laying at around 24-26 weeks of age and remain productive layers for many years with proper care.
Egg numbers do decline as the years go on, with hens producing the best egg numbers in the first 3 years. Fully matured, Leghorn hens typically weigh around 3–3.5 kg.
Join our waitlist to be notified when Leghorn chickens become available.