Lovely Lavender Orpingtons ~

Whether you have an established farm or are considering adding poultry to you backyard homestead, I have a breed just for you. I have several recommendations. However, I have found a special love for Orpingtons and especially our new Lavender Orpingtons. 

I wasn’t too sure what I thought about them at first. Orpingtons are known to be a docile breed and very affectionate. The most popular known are the Buff Orpingtons. They are not very flighty, excellent for both eggs and meat (dual purpose) and the bonus feature, in our experience, is that they do go broody. In my opinion, my Buff Orpington hens we bought as chicks last March truly fit the description as potentially “The Best For Backyard Homesteaders.” 

It can be tricky to find Lavender Orpingtons unless you are making a large chick order from a hatchery. We are  fortunate to have a wonderful local breeder that had a few in addition to Black Copper Marans. So, I grabbed what she had left one day. They sell fast! Buying a straight run (meaning it could be a pullet or a rooster!), I certainly took my chances on whether I was going to have any hens, but it was worth it.

Every chicken has a totally different personality and they can develop at different rates. I found my Lavender Orpingtons to be a bit aloof in comparison to my Buffs. Being such a hands on chicken lover, I have to admit, I was a little discouraged until now. I have found out that they just needed a little bit more time to settle in with the dynamics of our barn and get used to the farmer that talks to them. 

                                                               

We, for now, have two Lavender Orpingtons but have full intention to buy more pullets or hatch our own since we lucked out in having a rooster and a hen. I adore them. Not only are they stunning, but “Luna” has evolved into one of the friendliest hens in the barn. While I find her to have an eccentric personality, she certainly lets you know when she wants attention and treats. At 7 months, she has also finally started laying small brown eggs and she is certainly proud of them. Her eggs will grow bigger and become more regular and I can’t wait for that! “Sterling” fits in great in the barn for a rooster. He is not our flock lead by any means, but he gets along with all of our flock and is no threat to any of our other roosters so far. That, my friends, is a very good thing!

                                         

                                             ~  Luna dust bathing ~

                                                                 

So if you are looking for a striking bird with everything you could ever want in terms of sweetness and production, be sure to explore Lavender Orpintons. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!

Here is a breakdown of their characteristics:

Origin: England

Comb Type: Single

Egg Color: Brown

Egg Size: Medium-Large

Production: Good

Size: 7-8 lbs.

Broody: Yes

Hardiness: Cold hardy

Personality: Docile