A variety of poultry, known as the Barnevelder Chicken, originated in the Netherlands region of Barneveld just before the First World War. Due to the rich brown color, and the high quality, of the eggs, the species became sought-after by other countries and, consequently, in 1921 exports began. Another main attraction was the fact that hens produced were excellent layers.
The 'double laced' is a very popular variety, but they also come in black, partridge, and silver. The hen's plumage is predominantly dark brown with black double lacing. This is frequently named a 'double laced partridge'. Males have beautiful plumage with bursts of bronze, shimmering green, and violet. Some males have white and blue lacing.
The plumage of the male and female can be described as 'rich and tight'. They have yellow skin, red ear lobes, and single combs. They have a very upright stance with a broad breast. Barnevelders have short wings so they don't fly very competently.
Their fame was initially due to the unusual color of the eggs but, today, they are used for show purposes more than for their laying abilities. The color of the eggs is of little importance now because the birds' appearance is the center of focus. Eggs are lighter and Barnevelder layers don't produce the vast quantities as they did in their early history.
Nevertheless, they are good winter layers and have friendly, quiet dispositions. In addition to being bred for showing, they are also bred as a good utility breed. Because their weight is medium-to-heavy, they are great all-purpose birds that are capable of producing an ample supply of eggs. A Barnevelder also yields a tasty carcass for the table. They are wonderful foragers and extremely hardy. The breed is lazy and prone to getting fat if kept cooped up. Ideally, they should be free-range.
Both the male and female are docile and enjoy human company. As such, they make excellent pets, especially for children. A pet will happily join the ranks of the family and will not object to being picked up, stroked, and handled. A young bird may need some socialization before they become a true pet. Unlike most other breeds of chickens, Barnevelders have even been known to try and nurture new human babies or very young children.
They are easygoing and relate well to adults and children. Similar to a dog, a pet chicken will follow his or her owners around. Some people have said that Barnevelders also show guarding characteristics. The hen is a doting mother and will brood her eggs. When the chicks have hatched, she gives them care and attention. Even the rooster plays his role in parenthood.
It takes a chick longer to feather-out than other breeds. Hens usually reach a weight of 6 pounds and males 8 pounds. To summarize, the Barnevelder Chicken is a multi-purpose utility bird that is great as a pet, a good layer, and good to eat. The average hen will lay approximately 180 to 200 eggs per year, some of which can weigh as much as 3 ounces. The droppings serve as an excellent grass fertilizer.
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