Thuringian
chickens come from the Thuringer forest region in Germany. They were first
called Thuringer Barthuhner chickens in 1907 (Barthuhner means 'bearded
chicken') and bred as a dual purpose breed for meat and eggs, but now they are
mainly seen at poultry shows and for rare breed conservation. Their fluffy
beards have earned them the nick name 'Chubby cheeks'.
Thuringians
have a distinctive beard, ear muffs, and small comb making them very
cold-hardy. They can cope very well with harsh cold winters, but like most
chickens, detest the rain. They are active foragers and prefer to free range,
however they will tolerate confinement if the run area is large enough. Thuringians
are generally a friendly breed, coping well in a mixed flock. They are
confident chickens and usually the first to explore new surroundings or an unusual
treat when placed in the run. Hens rarely go broody; when they do they make
excellent mothers but can be very defensive of their young.
The hens
lay around 160 white eggs per year. They are a fast growing, active breed and
the hens are known for laying very young.
The
roosters weigh between 4.5 to5.5 lbs and hens 3.5 to 4.5 lbs. A miniature
version is also available with the roosters weighing 700g and the hens 600g.
The hens have a similar disposition to their larger counter parts, but the
roosters are feistier and more protective.
They are
found in white, red, buff, cuckoo, partridge, blue, black, silver / gold, and
spangled.
About Thuringian Chickens
