Double Silver Laced Barnevelders are a unique breed of chicken that originated in the town of Barneveld in the Netherlands. These birds are prized for their stunning plumage, friendly temperament, and their ability to lay large, brown eggs.
Appearance
The Double Silver Laced Barnevelder is a medium-sized chicken that weighs between 6-8 pounds. These birds have a striking appearance, with a black and white speckled feather pattern that shimmers in the sunlight. Their feathers are thick and fluffy, which makes them look larger than they actually are.
In addition to their unique plumage, Double Silver Laced Barnevelders have bright red combs and wattles, and yellow beaks and feet. They have a broad, muscular body and a strong, sturdy frame.
Temperament
Double Silver Laced Barnevelders are known for their friendly and docile temperament. These birds are easy to handle and enjoy being around people. They are also very social and like to be around other chickens.
Despite their calm demeanor, Double Silver Laced Barnevelders are also very active birds. They enjoy foraging for food and exploring their surroundings. They are also good flyers, so it’s important to keep their wings clipped if you have a small coop or run.
Egg Laying
One of the main reasons why people keep Double Silver Laced Barnevelders is for their large, brown eggs. These birds are excellent layers, and can lay up to 200 eggs per year. Their eggs are also larger than the average chicken egg, and have a rich, creamy flavor.
Double Silver Laced Barnevelders start laying eggs at around 6 months of age. They are also known for being consistent layers, which means that they will continue to lay eggs throughout the year, even in the winter months.
Care and Feeding
Double Silver Laced Barnevelders are easy to care for and require minimal upkeep. They need a clean and secure coop or run to protect them from predators, as well as access to clean water and nutritious food.
When it comes to feeding, Double Silver Laced Barnevelders do well on a diet of commercial poultry feed, supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables. They also enjoy foraging for insects and other small animals, which helps to keep them active and healthy.
Conclusion
Double Silver Laced Barnevelders are a unique and beautiful breed of chicken that make excellent pets and egg layers. Their stunning plumage, friendly temperament, and large, brown eggs make them a popular choice among poultry enthusiasts.
If you are considering adding Double Silver Laced Barnevelders to your flock, be sure to provide them with a clean and secure living area, as well as a nutritious diet and plenty of opportunities to explore and forage.