Leghorn (White)

A White Leghorn hen poses in a green field.

Remember Foghorn Leghorn the cartoon? Yep, this bird one and the same. (Seasoned pros know that Leghorn is pronounced "Leggern".) The White is separate from the rest because they lay large, white eggs practically every day! Other varieties aren't nearly so prolific. Whites are said to be nervous, but ours have been the sweetest, most tame of all our chickens! So give one a try and find out for yourself. (In winter, use petroleum jelly on the comb to prevent frostbite.)

Origins/History:

Class: Mediterranean
Type: Large Fowl & Bantam
Size: Medium (6-7 lbs)
Rarity: Common
Purpose: Egg-laying
Recognized Varieties: White, Pearl-White

Egg Facts:

Egg Laying: Very Good (5/wk)
Egg Color: White
Egg Size: X-Large

Fancy Features:

Comb Type: Single Comb
Crested: No
Feathered Legs: No
Number of Toes: 4

Suitability to Backyard Life:

Cold Hardiness: Hardy in winter
Heat Tolerance: Tolerates heat well
Bears Confinement: Bears confinement well
Especially Docile: No
Setter/Broody: No
Personality: Active and intelligent

Â