Welsummer Chicken Breed Guide: Eggs, Temperament & Care
If you’re looking for a hardy, friendly chicken that lays beautiful dark brown eggs, the Welsummer is an excellent choice. Originating from the Netherlands, these birds are prized for their rich, terracotta-colored eggs with speckles, and their calm, curious nature. Below, we cover everything you need to know about egg production, temperament, and care.
Egg Production and Characteristics
Welsummer hens are good layers, producing about 160 to 200 eggs per year. The eggs are large and range from dark brown to a deep reddish-brown, often with darker speckles. The exact shade can vary by individual hen and diet. Egg laying typically begins at around 20 to 24 weeks of age.
To maximize egg quality, provide a balanced layer feed with 16% protein, and ensure constant access to calcium (oyster shell or crushed eggshells). Fresh water is critical. In winter, egg production may slow due to shorter daylight – you can supplement with a light (14-16 hours/day) to maintain output. But note that forced lighting can stress birds, so some owners prefer a natural rest period.
Temperament and Behavior
Welsummers are known for their friendly, docile temperament. They are curious and enjoy exploring, making them great for free-range setups. Roosters can be protective but are typically not aggressive toward humans. They are not flighty, though they can be startled by sudden noises. With regular handling, they become quite tame and may even eat from your hand.
They are active foragers and do well in a mixed flock, holding their own without being bullies. However, they can be slightly more independent than some other breeds – they won’t demand cuddles but they will happily follow you around the yard. If you have small children, supervised interactions are always recommended.
Care and Housing Requirements
Housing: A standard coop with 4 square feet per bird inside, and at least 8-10 square feet per bird in the run. Welsummers are cold-hardy due to their dense feathering, but they need a dry, draft-free coop in winter. In hot climates, provide shade and ventilation – they can handle heat well if they have access to cool water and dust baths.
Diet: Feed a high-quality starter/grower for chicks, then switch to a layer feed at 18 weeks. Supplement with kitchen scraps (vegetables, fruits, grains) but avoid avocado, chocolate, raw beans, and salty foods. Grit should be available for digestion.
Health: Common issues like mites, lice, and respiratory infections can occur. Check for signs: lethargy, reduced appetite, sneezing, or scaly legs. For external parasites, use diatomaceous earth or poultry dust. For any illness, isolate the bird and consult a veterinarian immediately. Regular cleaning of the coop and proper biosecurity help prevent outbreaks.
Broodiness: Welsummer hens can go broody, especially in spring. If you don’t want chicks, you can break the broodiness by removing her from the nest, cooling her bottom with a wet cloth, or providing a wire-bottom cage for a few days. If you want to hatch eggs, they are good mothers.
Lifespan: With good care, Welsummers live 5-8 years. Egg production declines after the first two years, but they remain beloved pets.
Conclusion
Welsummer chickens are a joy for backyard keepers: beautiful eggs, friendly personalities, and easy care. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, they are a reliable choice for eggs and companionship.
Key Takeaway
Welsummer chickens are ideal for backyard keepers who want beautiful dark brown eggs, a friendly temperament, and a hardy, low-maintenance breed.