Jersey Giant Chicken Breed: The Complete Guide
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The Jersey Giant chicken breed stands as an impressive figure in the world of poultry, known for its commanding presence and remarkable attributes. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the history, personality, appearance, and egg production of this magnificent breed.
History of the Jersey Giant chicken breed
The Jersey Giant chicken breed traces its roots back to the late 19th century in the United States. It was developed in New Jersey by John and Thomas Black, with the intention of creating a breed that could rival the meat production of the turkey. Through selective breeding, they crossed Black Javas, Black Langshans, and Dark Brahmas to achieve a large, meaty bird.
By 1922, the American Poultry Association officially recognized the Jersey Giant as a breed, making it the largest chicken breed in existence at the time. Though initially bred for meat, Jersey Giants have also gained popularity as exhibition birds and backyard poultry.
My Pet Chicken offers Black Jersey Giant chickens for sale. Although White, Blue and Splash are other varieties available.Â
The personality of a Jersey Giant chicken
Jersey Giants are known for their gentle and docile temperament. They are often described as calm and friendly birds, making them suitable for both backyard flocks and exhibition purposes. Their laid-back demeanor makes them easy to handle and a favorite among poultry enthusiasts.
Overall, Jersey Giants make wonderful additions to a backyard flock due to their friendly and easygoing nature. Their engaging personalities and calm demeanor make them delightful companions, whether you're a seasoned chicken keeper or new to raising poultry.
The appearance of Jersey Giant chickens
True to their name, Jersey Giants are indeed giants among chickens. They are characterized by their massive size, with roosters typically weighing between 13-15 pounds and hens between 10-12 pounds. Their bodies are long and broad, with a deep chest and a well-rounded appearance.
The breed comes in three recognized colors: Black, White, and Blue. Black Jersey Giants are the most common, with glossy black feathers that shimmer with iridescence in the sunlight. White Jersey Giants boast pristine white plumage, while Blue Jersey Giants exhibit a striking slate-blue coloration.
Egg color and production of Jersey Giant chickens
Despite their impressive size, Jersey Giants are moderate egg layers. They typically lay extra large or large brown eggs, though egg production can vary depending on individual birds and environmental factors. On average, a Jersey Giant hen may lay around 150-200 eggs per year, making them a reliable source of fresh eggs for the household.
They typically start laying eggs at around 5-6 months of age and continue to lay consistently.
Care and health for Jersey Giant chickens
Jersey Giant chickens are hardy and adaptable to a wide range of climates but don't do well in extremely hot climates due to their larger size. With proper care and attention, they can live healthy and productive lives, laying an abundance eggs for years to come. The average life span of this chicken breed is 5-8 years.
Do you have any Jersey Giant chickens in your flock? Share with us in the comments below.Â
5 comments
I have four Jersey Giants and they are lovely,but they STINK. I don’t know if anyone has any ideas to repel the extra ammonia of this breed.
I love them to death very loud. Lots to say lol. I named mine after the power rangers.
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My Pet Chicken:
Your Jersey Giants sound like a lively and fun flock—naming them after the Power Rangers is brilliant! As for the smell, it’s not uncommon for larger breeds like Jersey Giants to produce more waste, which can lead to a stronger odor. To help manage the ammonia, you might try adding more bedding to their coop and using a deep litter method, which can help absorb moisture and reduce odors. Another option is to use products like agricultural lime or zeolite in the coop to neutralize ammonia. We have various products available, so please reach out to us directly, we’ll be happy to help. Good ventilation is also key to keeping the air fresh.
I’m just a starter hoping to start poultry farming soon for the production of meat and eggs and also to be kept as pet. Which breed is advicable to start with as sweet meat production and which is more advicable to start with as nourishing large extra large egg production.
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My Pet Chicken replied:
You have two different requirements for the business you are outlining. Most farms choose White Leghorn or Golden Buff for egg laying breeds, and another, like Cornish, for meat. The Black Jersey Giant is a great all-purpose breed, as are many of the other homestead breeds such a Barred Plymouth Rock, Rhode Island Red, and Black Australorp. We hope you are able to make your farming dream a reality!
I have 2 jersey roosters that have bred my flock to the point that I am sure I have some jersey hens. They are my only roosters and this is the 2nd generation. Is this possible that they have bred pure or almost pure? The hens are huge and lay huge eggs
I have 2 Giants. They are beautiful. I bought them because they’re black and because they’re big. Hopefully they’ll scare away hawks. Also 4 Isa Browns. The RIReds will be joining in July. 3 unknowns next week.
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My Pet Chicken:
That sounds like quite a delightful flock you have! Jersey Giants are indeed impressive birds, and their size and color might help deter hawks. Isa Browns and Rhode Island Reds are fantastic layers, so you’ll have plenty of eggs. It’s always exciting to have a mix of known and unknown breeds—there’s an element of surprise and discovery as they grow!
I think their personality is outstanding.I’m going back to get 6 more tomorrow.I love these guys so much.I can’t wait i’m excited
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My Pet Chicken:
We’re thrilled to hear that you enjoy them as much as we do! We couldn’t agree more—they truly are remarkable!