The Whiting True Blue chicken is a relatively new breed of chicken that has gained quite a bit of popularity in recent years.
This breed is known for its unique blue egg color and its ability to lay eggs consistently throughout the whole year.
Whiting True Blue chickens are definitely one of a kind and make great additions to any flock.
In this post, we will discuss:
- Whiting True Blue overview and history
- Breed characteristics
- Genetics and breeding of Whiting True Blue chickens
- Egg production and frequency
- Breed standards of the Whiting True Blue
- Frequently asked questions
Whiting True Blue Overview
| Lifespan | 5-10 years |
| Weight | Hen: 4-5 lbs, Rooster: 5-7 lbs |
| Appearance | Varies |
| Egg Color | Blue |
| Egg Size | Medium to Large |
| Egg Production | 250-300 per year |
| Broodiness Level | Low |
| Beginner Friendly | Yes |
| Space Needed | Space Needed 4 square ft per bird inside the coop, 8-10 square ft outside |
| Price | $3-$6 per chick |
Whiting True Blue Origin and History
The Whiting True Blue chicken is a hybrid breed that was developed in the United States in the early 21st century.
This breed is known for its unique blue egg-laying ability and its striking appearance.
Development of the Breed
The Whiting True Blue chicken was developed by Dr. Tom Whiting, a poultry geneticist and owner of Whiting Farms in Colorado.
Whiting wanted to create a breed that would have feathers that could be used for fly-fishing.
He began by crossing several different breeds, including the Cream Legbar, the Brown Leghorn, and the Ameraucana.
After several generations of selective breeding, Whiting was able to create a chicken that consistently laid blue eggs and had the desired characteristics.
The Whiting True Blue chicken is not yet recognized as a distinct breed by the American Poultry Association (APA), but hopefully will be in the near future.
Historical Significance
While the Whiting True Blue chicken is a relatively new breed, it has quickly gained popularity among backyard chicken enthusiasts and small-scale farmers.
Its unique blue eggs and striking appearance make it a favorite among those who want a visually interesting and productive flock.
Overall, the Whiting True Blue chicken is a testament to the ongoing development and improvement of poultry breeds in the United States.
Its hybrid creation represents the ingenuity and dedication of poultry breeders who continue to work towards creating better and more productive chicken breeds.
Breed Characteristics
Whiting True Blue chickens are a cross between a White Leghorn and a blue egg layer, typically an Ameraucana, resulting in a chicken that is both hardy and productive.
In this section, we will look at the Whiting True Blue’s physical appearance, color variations, and temperament.
Physical Appearance
One of the most striking features of the Whiting True Blue Chicken is its appearance.
These birds come in a wide variety of different color and pattern combinations, making them a unique addition to any flock.
They are medium-sized birds with a sturdy build, a well-proportioned body, and a single comb.
Hens weigh between 4-5 pounds and roosters weigh between 5-7 pounds.
The breed has a broad head and a moderately long, slightly curved beak.
Their eyes are large and round, with a bright, alert expression.
Whiting True Blue legs are strong, straight, and clean with four toes on each foot.
Color Variations & Patterns
Whiting True Blue chickens come in a range of different color variations.
Some of the common ones include:
- Black
- Black-Breasted Red
- True Blue
- Blue-Red
- Lemon-Blue
- Silver-Blue
- Blue Wheaten
With feather patterns including:
- Bi-color
- Splash
- Duck wing
- Partridge
These chickens come in so many different color variations and patterns, they make for a very fun and unique breed to add to a backyard flock.
Temperament
Whiting True Blue chickens are known to be friendly, yet not quite docile.
While these birds do well around people and other pets, they do not like to be handled.
They are active birds and enjoy foraging, so they are well-suited to free-range environments.
This breed can sometimes have a mind of its own and enjoy being independent.
Whiting True Blues also love to be left alone and are not easily tameable.
However, they are non-aggressive and typically do well with children, other pets, and other breeds of chickens.
It is important to keep them with other chicken breeds that are calm and docile so that they do not become aggressive.
Genetics and Breeding
True Blue Egg Gene
True Blue Chickens are best known for their unique blue eggs, which are highly sought after by many backyard poultry enthusiasts.
Their blue eggs are considered to be “true blue”, meaning they are blue throughout.
Unlike a brown egg that is brown on the outside and white on the inside, their eggs are blue on both outside and inside.
The blue color of the eggshell is caused by a genetic mutation that affects the expression of a pigment called biliverdin.
This mutation is known as the “Oocyan” gene and is dominant, meaning that only one copy of the gene is needed to produce blue eggs.
Breeding for Egg Color
To maintain the blue egg color in True Blue Chickens, breeders must carefully select breeding stock that carries the Oocyan gene.
However, it is important to note that breeding for egg color alone can lead to a reduction in other desirable traits such as egg production, growth rate, and temperament.
Therefore, breeders must balance their breeding goals to maintain a healthy and productive flock.
Genetic Health Considerations
In addition to selecting for desirable traits, breeders must also consider genetic health when breeding True Blue Chickens.
Inbreeding and overuse of certain breeding lines can lead to genetic defects and health problems in the flock.
Therefore, it is important to maintain genetic diversity and avoid breeding closely related individuals.
Overall, breeding True Blue Chickens requires a careful balance of selecting for desirable traits while maintaining genetic health.
With proper breeding practices, breeders can produce healthy and productive flocks that are prized for their unique blue eggs.
Whiting True Blue Care
Whiting True Blues are hardy and adaptable birds, able to thrive in a range of climates and environments.
Here, we will talk about the care requirements for keeping these lovely chickens.
Feeding Requirements
Whiting True Blue chickens are known for their excellent egg-laying abilities and require a balanced diet to maintain their health and productivity.
A diet consisting of high-quality commercial feed, supplemented with fresh greens, grains, and fruits is recommended.
It is important to provide clean water at all times and to ensure that feeders are kept clean and free of debris.
Housing Needs
Whiting True Blue chickens are hardy and adaptable, but they do require adequate shelter from the elements.
A well-ventilated coop with plenty of natural light is ideal.
The coop should be kept clean and dry, and bedding should be changed regularly.
Perches should be provided for roosting at night, and nesting boxes should be provided for laying eggs.
Healthcare & Maintenance
Whiting True Blue chickens are generally healthy and require minimal healthcare.
However, it is important to keep an eye out for signs of illness or injury and to seek veterinary care if necessary.
These birds, just like any other breed of chicken, are susceptible to common health concerns such as lice and mites, egg binding, prolapse, or bumblefoot.
It is important to check them over a few times per month to ensure that you catch a health concern early and can handle it quickly before it progresses.
Overall, caring for Whiting True Blue chickens is relatively simple and straightforward.
With proper feeding, housing, and maintenance, these birds can provide years of enjoyment and productivity for their owners.
Whiting True Blue Egg Production
In addition to their unique appearance, Whiting True Blue Chickens are also known for their egg-laying abilities.
In this section, we will look at egg-laying frequency and egg size.
Egg Laying Frequency
The hens start laying eggs at around 5 months of age and continue to lay throughout their productive life, which can last up to 3 years.
These birds can lay up to 300 eggs per year (5-6 per week), making them a highly productive breed.
Egg Quality and Size
The eggs produced by Whiting True Blue chickens are of good quality and size.
They have a strong shell and a bright blue color, which makes them visually appealing.
The average weight of the eggs is around 55 grams, which is considered medium-sized.
Their yolk is rich in color and the egg has a good flavor.
Breed Standards
The Whiting True Blue chicken is a relatively new breed, and its breed standards are still being developed.
The American Poultry Association (APA) has not yet recognized the Whiting True Blue as an official breed in the United States.
The breed still needs to develop further for the APA to consider it a breed.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Whiting True Blue chickens are a great choice for those looking for a unique and productive breed.
With their striking blue color, hardiness, and excellent egg-laying abilities, they are sure to be a standout addition to any backyard flock.
One thing to keep in mind is that they do require a bit of extra care when it comes to their diet due to how many eggs they lay per year.
Providing them with a high-quality feed and plenty of space to roam will help keep them healthy and happy.
So, if you are looking for a chicken that lays beautiful blue eggs, the Whiting True Blue may be for you.
They are a reliable and productive breed that will provide you with plenty of eggs and enjoyment for years and years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What distinguishes Whiting True Blue chickens from Cream Legbars?
Whiting True Blue chickens and Cream Legbars are both blue egg layers with similar physical characteristics.
However, Whiting True Blue chickens are not yet considered an actual breed and come in many different colors and color patterns.
Cream Legbars are considered to be an actual breed and they have a speckled or mottled appearance.
Describe Whiting True Blue vs Ameraucana.
Whiting True Blue chickens and Ameraucanas are both breeds that lay blue eggs.
However, Whiting True Blue chickens are a hybrid breed, while Ameraucanas are a purebred breed.
Whiting True Blue chickens are also larger and more productive egg layers than Ameraucanas.
What type of comb does a Whiting True Blue have?
Whiting True Blue chickens have a single comb, which is a type of comb that has a single row of points.
This type of comb is common in many chicken breeds and is not unique to Whiting True Blue chickens.
How many eggs can you expect from a Whiting True Blue chicken annually?
Whiting True Blue chickens are known for their high egg production, with hens laying up to 300 eggs per year.
However, egg production can vary depending on factors such as age, diet, and environment.
Where can one purchase Whiting True Blue chickens?
Whiting True Blue chickens can be purchased from various hatcheries and breeders.
It is important to do research and choose a reputable source to ensure the health and quality of the chickens.
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Ameraucana Chicken: The Ultimate Breed Guide