Jake Harper
The Blue Laced Red Wyandotte is a unique breed of chicken that stands out for its striking colour pattern of rich red feathers laced with blue hues. This rare variety, which originated in the United States in the 1870s, is sought after for its beauty, egg-laying abilities, and friendly demeanour. When picking out Blue Laced Red Wyandotte chicks, it's important to understand their genetics and the factors that influence their colouring. The blue in the blue lacing can vary from light to vivid to dark blue/black, and when breeding blue to blue, you can expect a mix of blue, black, and splash chicks. These colour variations are a natural result of their genetics and add to the charm of this beautiful breed.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Colour | Deep red feathers with steel-blue, slate-blue, pigeon blue, or smoky-blue lacing |
| Feather Development | Chicks are not born with lacing, unique feather colours develop as they mature |
| Size | Medium-sized, with a broad, deep, well-proportioned body and a short, well-rounded back |
| Weight | Hens: 6.5 lbs, Roosters: 8.5 lbs |
| Egg Production | 180-260 eggs per year, medium to large brown eggs |
| Egg Colour | Light brown, brown, or speckled |
| Temperament | Quiet, friendly, sociable, easily get along with other chickens, good for beginners |
| Health | Healthy, disease-resistant, and productive |
| Climate Adaptability | Suitable for cold climates and not prone to frostbite |
| Purpose | Dual-purpose: suitable for egg production and meat |
| Origin | Developed in the 1870s in the United States from crossing Silver Laced and Golden Laced varieties of Wyandotte |
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What You'll Learn
Blue Laced Red Wyandotte colour variations
The Blue Laced Red Wyandotte chicken is a beautiful bird with a unique colour pattern. Each bird showcases a stunning mix of deep red feathers highlighted with a steel-blue lacing. The blue gene will colour the chicks either light blue or dark blue in the lacing (the area around the reddish-coloured feathers) in both baby chicks and mature birds. The blue lacing does not always breed true, so you can expect variations in shading—some light, some vivid, and some bordering on black.
The blue lacing that outlines each feather is actually a shade of grey and can be black/dark grey (sometimes called dark blue), medium grey (called blue or violet), or pale grey (splash). The blue (violet) shade is the most stunning and sought-after lacing colour. However, breeding two blues will produce only 50% blue laced red Wyandotte chicks, with 25% being black laced red Wyandottes and 25% being splash laced red Wyandottes.
Due to the genetics of the blue plumage colour, the "blue" in the blue lacing will actually be what's known as BBS, which stands for blue, black, and splash. When breeding blue to blue, you will get a mix of 50% blue, 25% black, and 25% splash. This range of colours is part of the natural charm and genetics of the Blue Laced Red Wyandotte.
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The history of Blue Laced Red Wyandottes
The Blue Laced Red Wyandotte is an American breed of chicken that was originally developed in the 1870s. This breed is known for its distinctive appearance, with rich red feathers intricately laced with a slate-blue hue that creates a captivating contrast. The blue lacing colour can vary from light to dark blue or even black, and the overall colouring is a result of complex genetics and selective breeding.
The history of the Blue Laced Red Wyandotte begins with the creation of the Wyandotte breed in the United States around 1870. The breed was developed by H.M. Doubleday and John Ray of New York State, L. Whittaker of Michigan, and Fred Houdlette of Boston, Massachusetts. The first colour variation of the Wyandotte was the Silver Laced, which was admitted to the American Standard of Perfection in 1883. The Blue Laced Red Wyandotte, however, is not yet recognised as a variety of Wyandotte by the American Poultry Association, despite its unique and picturesque colouring.
The Blue Laced Red Wyandotte was created by crossing the Silver Laced and Golden Laced varieties of Wyandotte, which resulted in the distinctive blue and red colouring. This colour blend sparked the interest of dedicated breeders, who continue to work towards achieving the perfect blue lacing. The breed was further developed by crossing the Brahma chicken with other popular breeds, resulting in the American Sebright.
The Blue Laced Red Wyandotte first gained popularity in Germany in the early 1900s, where the colour was referred to as Gold Blue Laced. By 1929, over 100 birds were showcased in the annual show in Leipzig. From Germany, the breed was imported to England and later to the United States in the 1980s by Lowell Barber. Today, the Blue Laced Red Wyandotte is still considered a relatively new breed in the United States, and private breeders are working towards official recognition of the colour.
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Blue Laced Red Wyandotte egg production
The Blue Laced Red Wyandotte is a beautiful and unique American breed of chicken that originated in the 1870s. They are valued for their egg production, meat yield, and striking appearance. This breed is the result of crossing Silver Laced and Golden Laced varieties of Wyandottes, showcasing a mix of deep red feathers with intricate slate-blue, pigeon blue, or steel-blue lacing. The blue lacing may vary in shade, from light to vivid to dark blue/black, and this range of colours is a natural part of their genetics.
Blue Laced Red Wyandottes are known for their versatility and dual-purpose capabilities. They are excellent layers of medium to large brown eggs, with an estimated annual production of 150-220 eggs, or even up to 180-260 eggs per year according to some sources. These hens are consistent layers and can occasionally go broody, making them attentive mothers. They adapt well to various climates and environments, thriving in both confinement and free-range settings, which makes them ideal for backyard flocks.
The Blue Laced Red Wyandotte chickens are well-rounded, friendly, and sociable. They are quiet, healthy, and get along well with other chickens. Their full feathering and pleasingly rounded shape contribute to their distinct charm. This breed is still being refined by breeders to achieve perfect blue lacing and enhance its unique qualities.
In summary, the Blue Laced Red Wyandotte is a delightful and functional breed that stands out for its egg production, meat quality, and breathtaking aesthetics. Their adaptability, temperament, and striking plumage make them a popular choice for farmers, poultry enthusiasts, and families alike.
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Blue Laced Red Wyandotte physical characteristics
The Blue Laced Red Wyandotte is a beautiful chicken with a unique blend of colours that gives it a distinct identity. This breed is the result of crossing Silver Laced and Golden Laced varieties of Wyandotte, which results in a mix of light blue, dark blue, reddish-coloured feathers, and a steel-blue lacing. The blue lacing does not breed true, so you can expect variations in shading, from light to vivid to bordering on black. This colour variation is part of the breed's natural charm and genetics.
Blue Laced Red Wyandottes have a well-rounded, deep, and broad body shape, with a short, well-rounded back, giving them a classic chicken silhouette. They are medium-sized chickens, with hens weighing around 6.5 lbs and roosters weighing up to 8.5 lbs. They have a small rose comb, which makes them perfect for cold climates as they are not prone to frostbite.
This breed is known for its calm and friendly demeanour and its excellent egg-laying abilities. They are reliable layers of medium to large brown eggs, producing an estimated 150-260 eggs per year. They are also dual-purpose chickens, suitable for both eggs and meat production. Blue Laced Red Wyandottes are hardy birds that adapt well to various climates and environments and are excellent foragers.
When it comes to picking out Blue Laced Red Wyandotte chicks, it is important to note that they are sold as baby chicks only and are unsexed. The blue lacing colour on the chicks will vary, just like in mature birds, and you may see light blue, dark blue, or a mix of both in the lacing around their reddish feathers.
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Buying Blue Laced Red Wyandotte chicks
Blue Laced Red Wyandotte is a relatively new variety of Wyandotte that recently came to the United States from England. This breed is known for its unique and beautiful colour pattern, which features a mix of deep red feathers highlighted with steel-blue, black, or splash lacing. The blue gene will colour the chicks either light blue or dark blue in the lacing, with the reddish-coloured feathers appearing in both baby chicks and mature birds. Due to the genetics of the blue plumage colour, the "blue" in the blue lacing will be a mix of blue, black, and splash. When breeding blue to blue, you can expect a mix of 50% blue, 25% black, and 25% splash.
If you're looking to buy Blue Laced Red Wyandotte chicks, you'll be pleased to know that they are available for purchase from hatcheries and poultry farms. Keep in mind that this breed is typically sold as baby chicks only, and you may need to reserve your chicks in advance. Some suppliers may have a minimum order requirement, usually around three chicks, and a maximum order limit of ten chicks for this breed.
When purchasing Blue Laced Red Wyandotte chicks, it's essential to consider the purpose for which the breed is being raised. These chickens are valued for their practical qualities, such as reliable egg-laying abilities, providing a steady supply of medium to large brown eggs. They are also known for their calm and friendly demeanour, making them an excellent choice for families and first-time chicken keepers. Additionally, their heavy bodies make them a great dual-purpose choice, and their small rose combs make them perfect for cold climates as they are not prone to frostbite.
When buying Blue Laced Red Wyandotte chicks, it's important to consider the reputation and reliability of the hatchery or supplier. Ensure that the chicks are healthy, energetic, and well-cared for. It's also a good idea to inquire about the parent stock and the breeding practices used to produce the chicks. Additionally, don't forget to ask about the estimated delivery dates and any relevant policies or guarantees offered by the supplier.
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Frequently asked questions
Blue Laced Red Wyandotte chicks are born with a buff colour and blue lacing. The blue lacing will vary, with some chicks having light blue, vivid blue, or even black lacing.
Blue Laced Red Wyandotte chicks are a rare variety of Wyandotte, so their colouring is very distinctive. They have a buff body with blue, black, or splash lacing. The blue lacing may appear light or dark, and the chicks will have reddish-coloured feathers as they mature.
It's important to ensure the chicks are healthy and active. Additionally, you may want to check for their distinctive colouring—buff body with blue, black, or splash lacing—and their heavy body type, which is well-suited for dual-purpose use.
You can purchase Blue Laced Red Wyandotte chicks from hatcheries such as Cackle Hatchery, McMurray Hatchery, and Meyer Hatchery. These hatcheries offer reservations and take orders for specific delivery dates.
Blue Laced Red Wyandotte chicks are typically available for reservation and purchase during specific seasons, such as summer. Some hatcheries may have minimum and maximum order requirements, so it's best to check with the hatchery directly for availability and order details.
