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STANDARD | DUAL PURPOSE
The Barred Plymouth Rock is one of America’s oldest and most respected breeds. They are an outstanding farm chicken with qualities such as hardiness, docility, broodiness, and excellent production of both eggs and meat. Until World War II, in fact, no other breed was ever kept and bred as extensively as the lovely Plymouth Rock. Barred Plymouth Rocks are often confused with Dominiques, with the easiest differences being their single comb and well-defined barring.
Quick Reference:
The Plymouth Rock was developed in America in the middle of the 19th century and was first exhibited as a breed in 1869. The first Plymouth Rock was Barred while other varieties developed later. Further denoting it’s dual purpose ability, the Barred Plymouth Rock breed was actually one of the foundation breeds for the broiler industry in the 1920’s.
The Barred Rock is easy to trust and easy to manage, making it a wonderful family bird – and amazing backyard chicken for any and all levels of chicken keeping experience. In fact, I remember my grandfather having an entire flock of Barred Rocks as I was growing up. My sister and I would clumsily carry them in our arms while flipping over rocks to find tasty treats for them.
At Huxley’s Homestead, our roos do not tend to be aggressive and our hens are some of the sweetest, most curious chickens we’ve encountered, often following us around and inquisitively chirping.
There are two strains of Barred Plymouth Rocks: Exhibition and Production. Production Barred Rocks have been specifically bred to produce more eggs and more meat, making them truly dual purpose. Exhibition Barred Rocks, while still maintaining their V-like shape, are generally larger, more closely resembling the Barred Plymouth Rock of yesteryear.
Our Barred Plymouth Rock flock is comprised mostly of production Barred Rocks that are selected for exhibition characteristics. We are in the process of breeding our Barred Rocks toward SOP standards simply to “do the original breed justice,” as breed conservation is something we are passionate about.
If you are seeking an all-around wonderful bird with dependable egg laying, look no further!