When it comes to egg production, not all chicken breeds are created equal. Some chicken breeds lay more eggs than others, and some are better suited for backyard chicken coops than commercial operations. If you're looking to get into the egg business, here are the top five chicken breeds for egg production.
Rhode Island Red
Rhode Island Reds are a heritage breed that originated in the United States. They're one of the most popular chicken breeds for egg production, laying up to 250 brown eggs per year. Rhode Island Reds are also good for meat production, making them a dual-purpose bird.
Leghorn
Leghorns are a Mediterranean breed that's known for their high egg production. These chickens can lay up to 280 white or brown eggs per year, making them a popular choice for commercial egg producers.
Australorp
Australorps are an Australian breed that was developed in the 1920s by crossing Orpingtons and Wyandottes. They're a dual-purpose breed, used both for meat and egg production, and they can lay up to 200 large brown eggs per year.
Golden Comet
Golden Comets are a hybrid breed that was developed in the United States in the 1940s. They're a popular choice for backyard chicken coops because they have great egg-laying ability, laying up to 250 large brown eggs per year, and they're good-natured birds that get along well with people and other animals.
Isa Brown
Isa Browns are a hybrid breed that was developed in Australia in the 1970s. They're one of the most popular commercial egg-laying breeds, laying up to 300 brown eggs per year. Isa Browns are also good meat birds, making them a dual-purpose breed.
If you're thinking about getting into the egg business, these are the five best chicken breeds to consider raising. Rhode Island Reds, Leghorns, Australorps, Golden Comets, and Isa Browns are all well-suited for egg production, laying anywhere from 200 to 300 eggs per year. And if you choose a dual-purpose breed like Rhode Island Reds or Australorps, you'll be able to sell your excess chicken meat as well!