Hobbies And Interests
Jersey Giant
The Jersey Giant is the largest standard breed recognized in America. It was bred in the 1870s in New Jersey by brothers John and Thomas Black, for the specific purpose of creating an extra-large, meaty bird. Males average 13 lbs. at maturity, and females 10 lbs., with an unusually large frame and dark plumage. Jersey Giants do not begin to fill out and become meaty until they are 6 months of age, which makes them unsuited for modern commercial meat production methods.
Brahma
The Brahma originated in Asia, as its name indicates. It may have been bred originally in China or India, but researchers have been unable to settle the question with any finality. In any case, the modern Brahma owes its characteristics largely to 19th-century American breeders. The light-colored variety are nearly as large as the Jersey Giant, with males averaging 12 lbs. and females 9 1/2. The buff and dark-feathered varieties are slightly smaller.
Cochin
The Cochin are a decorative breed, primarily kept as show birds in the modern era. Their signature characteristic is their plumage, which is fluffy and lavish. A well-kept Cochin creates the appearance of a large puffball. Cochins are often raised indoors, to prevent their feathers from collecting dirt and mud. They are very broody, or motherly, and breeders often use them to foster-parent game bird chicks. Male Cochins weigh in at 11 lbs., and females average 8 1/2 lbs.
Orpington
The Orpington is a dual-purpose variety bred in England in the late-19th century for egg and meat production. They are an excellent meat bird for home or small farm production, but are not favored commercially because of their pale skin. Orpingtons are very cold-hardy and are well suited to pasturing, both characteristics that appeal to homesteaders and small farmers. The male Orpington averages 10 lbs., while hens weight 8 lbs. on the average.