Romagnola chickens were once common in the regions of Romagna and parts of Emilia, particularly in areas like Ravenna, Forli, and Bologna. Known for its fine boned structure, this breed boasts a single comb of medium size, which stands erect in the rooster and is folded in the hen. The comb is typically red and smooth, while the wattles are well-developed.
Characterized by oval-shaped, small cream-colored earlobes, which may sometimes exhibit shades of blue, especially in younger animals, this breed's shanks vary in color, ranging from pure yellow to yellow with spots of dark or greenish hues, with a preference for completely dark shanks. Historical pictures suggest various liveries, with silver, silver buttercup, golden buttercup, white, and brown down being among the most common types.
The skin of this breed also varies but is often observed to be white. Undergoing selection by the Experimental Poultry Station in Rovigo and the Agricultural Inspectorate of Ravenna County, homogeneous stocks of silver buttercup, golden buttercup, silver pencilled, and golden pencilled varieties have been obtained.
Currently, a small stock of this breed is being reared in collaboration with the University of Parma at the Veterinary Faculty. Furthermore, the breed is part of a protection project supported by the Parma Province and the Animal Production Department of the Faculty of Veterinary, emphasizing its significance in conservation efforts.
About Romagnola Chickens
