Largest Chickens
Certain chicken breeds can grow to impressive sizes, making them excellent for egg production since larger chickens often lay larger eggs. Many of these breeds are also dual-purpose, providing a substantial amount of both meat and eggs.
Raising these chickens is relatively hassle-free, as they are generally gentle-natured and easy to handle. Their lower levels of aggression allow for them to be reared alongside smaller breeds without issues.
List of the Largest Chickens in the World
Chickens are considered “big” due to their weight and height, but the primary consideration is usually given to a breed’s weight.
Breed | Weight (in lbs) | Height (in inches) | Color | Purpose | Country of Origin |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Jersey Giant | 10-13 | 22-26 | Black, White, Blue | For eggs and meat | United States |
O-Shamo | 10-13 | 28-30 | Black, Black-breasted Red, White, White with Brown speckling, Reddish-brown | Exhibition | Japan |
Dong Tao | 9-13 | 13-16 | Mix of blue, black, green, brown, and red | Meat | Vietnam |
Brahma | 10-12 | 18-30 | Light, Dark, Buff Colombian, White, Gold, Blue Partridge | For eggs and meat | United States |
Malay Game | 9-11 | 30-36 | Black, Black-breasted Red, Pile, Spangled, White | Exhibition | England |
Malines | 8-11 | 24-30 (unverified) | Cuckoo (both black and gold), White, Black | Meat | Belgium |
Cochin | 7-11 | 24-26 | Black, Buff, Partridge, White, Laced (both Gold and Silver), Brown, Barred | Exhibition | China |
Australorp | 9-10 | 25-27 | Black, Blue, White | Eggs | Australia |
Plymouth Rock | 7-10 | 24-34 | Barred, White, Buff, Silver Penciled, Blue, Patridge, Columbian | For eggs and meat | United States |
Orpington | 6-10 | 12-16 | Buff, Black, Blue, White | Exhibition | United Kingdom |
German Langshan | 5-10 | 24-32 | Brown-tinted | Exhibition | Germany |
Rhode Island Red | 7-9 | 22-28 | Different shades of Red, ranging from rusty red to almost black | For eggs and meat | United States |
The Malay Game Chicken is the tallest in the world, capable of reaching a staggering 36 inches in height, earning the nickname “The Towering Chicken.”
FAQs
The current record for the largest chicken is held by a Brahma named Merakli, who is 33.6 inches tall and weighs 16.5 lbs.