Wyandotte Breed is one of the most favorite chicken breeds in America. The breed was created in North-Eastern USA. It has been one of the most favorite breeds by the people because the chickens are reliable in both egg and meat production. One interesting fact about this bird is that it is the first ever breed created to be a dual-purpose chicken. 

Unfortunately, as the poultry industry evolved and became more advanced, the favor fell out from the Wyandotte into more advanced and refined chicken breeds. But fortunately, these days, a lot of dedicated chicken breeders are scrambling to add the Wyandotte breed into their flock. 

In this article, we will discuss all the important things that you need to know about Wyandotte including their history and origin, egg laying capabilities, appearance, size and color, temperament, and how you could properly take care of them. 

Wyandotte Breed History and Origin

There are four people responsible for creating the Wyandotte: H.M. Doubleday, John Ray, Fred Houdlette, and L. Whittaker. During the later 1800s, America still does not have a dual-purpose chicken. Hence, the four people teamed up together to make one. 

The breed they created was originally called the American Sebright. However, the name was changed to Wyandotte when the American Poultry Association (APA) officially recognized the breed. The name came from the Wyandotte Indian Nation to honor the first white settlers in the area. 

The first Wyandotte was of the silver laced variety, created in upstate New York during the 1860s. the second variety was the gold laced which was created in Wisconsin in 1860s. The latter variety was created using the former one. The silver laced was bred with a gold spangled Hamburg and Partridge Cochin. The resulting offspring was initially called Winnebagoes but the name was latter changed into Wyandotte. 

Appearance

The Wyandotte has a deep, broad frame. It is also full breasted. It has a large and broad head that contains a rose comb. The chicken also has yellow, stout legs. The legs are well-spaced out so as to hold the heavy frame of the chicken. It also has clean legs, which means those don’t have feathers. Each foot has four toes. Their earlobes, comb, wattles, and face are all colored red. The beak has a horn or yellow color. Its eyes are colored orange. The gold laced variety of the Wyandotte has golden feather laced with black. The central veining of the feather is somewhat whitish. 

Size and Color

The Wyandotte is generally large in size. It is considered to be a heavy bird. Wyandotte rooster generally weigh around eight to nine pounds while hens weigh around six to seven pounds. There are also bantam sized Wyandottes. Males weigh around 40 oz while females weigh around 36 oz. 

The Wyandotte was officially recognized by the APA in 1883. The standard colors are the following: silver laced, gold laced, black, buff, partridge, silver penciled, Colombian, and blue. 

Egg Laying

On the average, a Wyandotte hen lays about 4 medium to large, brown-colored eggs every week. They are quite broody as well, which means they tend to sit atop of their eggs after laying them. They also make for great mothers, though sometimes overly protective of their chicks. 

Wyandotte Breed Temperament

In general, a Wyandotte is calm, friendly, and docile. Because of its dominant streak, it ranks high in the pecking order. They do well with bonding with other Wyandottes. But they tend to be aloof when mixed with other breeds. 

Wyandottes also tolerate confinement very well. However, it would be a good idea to have them free range at times. They can be good hunters of seeds and bags. They can save you some feeds as well. 

Because of their good feather covers, Wyandottes are also cold hardy. If you want to put them in a warm area, don’t forget to provide them with shelter and water. Also, on the average, Wyandottes live between 6 to 12 years. 

Should I Get a Wyandotte?

If you want a chicken breed that can be best taken care of in a backyard or coop, then the Wyandotte is a good choice. They are also child friendly and won’t do harm to the kids. They are also dependable when it comes to laying eggs of decent size. One important thing to note of is that Wyandottes can be loud and noisy. You don’t want to distract your neighbors with these lovely chicks. 

Conclusion

Overall, the Wyandotte is an outstanding chicken breed, which is why it is considered to be one of the top 20 chicken breeds. You have been given the most important things that you need to know about the Wyandotte – including how the breed originated, its appearance, temperament, size and color, and egg laying capabilities. The choice is up to you now to decide whether to get one for you coop or backyard. Whatever your decision may be, we wish you good luck in your chicken breeding journey!