Brown Beauties

WE TURN THE SPOTLIGHT ON 12 TOP BROWN-EGG-LAYING HENS.

- ERIN SNYDER

Brown-egg-laying chickens are the most common egg layers in backyard flocks. From Rhode Island Reds to Golden Comets and every breed in between, this article will profile the top 12 best brown egg layers in egg production.

RHODE ISLAND RED

Possibly the most popular brown egg-laying chickens, Rhode Island Reds (red chicken pictured) are well known for their egg-laying abilities. Averaging five to six extra-large brown eggs weekly (200 to 220 eggs annually), Rhode Island Reds are known for frequently laying double-yolked eggs. Hens of this breed lay consistently for about three years before production begins to slow down.

Rhode Island Red hens are calm and friendly and quickly become part of the family.

COLOR VARIETY: Red

AUSTRALORP

Usually described as “shy but sweet,” Australorps (black chicken pictured, opposite page) are energetic, friendly, and known for their vibrant personalities. Their sweet natures make them the perfect choice for families desiring an egg layer who will quickly become part of the family.

Australorps are egg-laying rock stars, averaging five to six light-brown eggs per week (about 220 to 240 eggs per year), and lay an average of four years.

COLOR VARIETIES: Black is the primary color available in the U.S.

SPECKLED SUSSEX

Highly intelligent and energetic, the Speckled Sussex is a well-loved breed. The hens’ calm, cheerful, and curious natures make this breed one of the most popular brown egg-laying chickens. Sussex hens love interacting with people and often carry-on animated conversations with their favorite humans.

Speckled Sussex hens lay an average of four to five medium light-brown eggs weekly (150 eggs annually). While they may not put out the same number of eggs per year as other breeds, the number rarely decreases for the first four years of their lives.