Chickens : Dorking , Langshan

Dorking Chickens

This British breed has been around for about 2,000 years, and its specific purpose is to be a plump, meaty bird able to feed a family. 

Its colors are red, silver-gray, and white. 

The combs of silver-gray and red birds should be single.

 The combs of white birds should be rose, which means they are fleshy, flat, and broad on the top.

The combs are broad and solid, and the main part has a curved surface with small and round protuberances.

The rooster weighs between 10 to 14 pounds, and the hen weighs 8 to 10 pounds.

 Bantams weigh up to 3 pounds and are good for meat.

 Their legs are clean, short, and white with five toes. 

Their earlobes are red, and their eggs are white. Dorkings will lay about three eggs per week.

These birds are docile and easy to handle.

 They do not like confinement much and will be happier free-range. 

You need sufficient space for them to forage for insects and wander. Dorkings take up to two years to mature, and they live up to seven years. 

Chickens of some breeds have been known to live up to 20 years, though eight to ten years is the average life span for a chicken.

 Feed that is balanced and provides proper nutrients will give you a meatier bird.

Langshan Chickens

China is where the Langshan originated; it was discovered in the 1800s. 

The Langshan was popular in late 19th century America because of its qualities.

 They can tolerate all climates, are meaty, and are adequate egg producers. 

They also have a gentle temperament. 

They are blue, black, and white, with a single comb and white skin.

 The blue and black birds have a green or purple sheen to them in sunlight.

 Green is a more desirable color and represents a more prestigious bloodline.

Their eyes are dark or black. 

Langshans have long, clean legs with four toes.

 Some varieties have lightly feathered legs. 

By today’s standards, these birds are big but are not as meaty as some commercially produced chickens. 

These chickens stand tall, about 20 to 24 inches high and weigh 7 to 8 pounds.

Their tails can be long, about 18 to 24 inches, and are erect and carried at a high angle.

These birds are medium egg producers; they provide about 140 to 150 eggs yearly. 

The eggs they lay are light to dark brown and, in some cases, plum- colored. 

These are not as common but are the most desirable color.

Langshans are a good choice for new chicken owners because they are gentle and docile.