Jersey Giant Chicken Breed: The Complete Guide

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. 

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.