The Black Harco is a productive laying hen with a calm nature and dark plumage. A practical choice for keepers looking for plenty of brown eggs and an easy-going hen.

1. Introduction

The Harco is a hybrid laying hen with predominantly black plumage, often complemented by warmer brown shades around the neck. It is particularly interesting for backyard keepers who want good egg production while enjoying more colour variation within their flock.

2. Key characteristics

• Type: hybrid laying hen
• Size: medium
• Egg colour: brown
• Egg production: approximately 280-300 eggs per year
• Temperament: calm, sociable and curious
• Flying ability: moderate
• Colour: predominantly black with brown shades
• Vaccinated: yes

Annual egg production is an indication. Age, season, nutrition and living conditions will influence actual production.

3. Temperament and behaviour

The Harco combines good laying ability with a generally approachable temperament. It enjoys exploring and foraging but is usually not excessively nervous, making it interesting for both new and experienced chicken keepers.

4. Eggs and laying

The Harco has been selected for producing brown eggs and is particularly productive during its first laying years. It will continue laying as it gets older, although production naturally decreases over time.

5. Housing and care

The Harco does not require unusually complicated housing. Provide sufficient foraging space, a secure run and a dry, easily accessible coop.

Important after purchase: newly purchased chickens should initially be fed chick meal. Gradually mix in an increasing amount of regular grain so they can adjust smoothly to their subsequent diet.

6. Who is this laying hen suitable for?

A good choice for:

• keepers wanting plenty of brown eggs;
• first-time chicken keepers;
• families and backyard keepers;
• anyone looking for an easy-to-keep laying hen.

7. Which chickens can the Harco live with?

The Harco generally combines well with other laying hens of a similar size and temperament. Bleu de Landes, Cuckoo laying hens and White Sussex are interesting combinations. Introduce new chickens gradually and provide enough room for birds to move away from one another.

8. Why choose the Black Harco?

The Harco is particularly attractive if egg production matters but you also want a calm and appealing chicken. Its dark plumage also provides an attractive contrast alongside white, grey or brown hens.

9. You may also be interested in

• Ademvrij Con Brio - a complementary poultry supplement formulated to support the respiratory system.
• Feeder - a practical way to keep feed accessible and neatly contained.
• Barbary duck - an interesting option for anyone who would like to keep other poultry alongside chickens.

10. Advice from De Hagedoorn

The Harco is a practical choice if you want a regular supply of fresh brown eggs without choosing a particularly active hen such as the Leghorn. Give it sufficient room to forage and remember that even a productive layer will naturally lay fewer eggs as it gets older.

Not sure whether this is the right choice for your chicken run or flock? We are happy to provide personal advice. Feel free to contact Sonja Neven (0479 95 65 01 in the morning).