The White Leghorn is a light, active laying hen known for high egg production and white eggs. An excellent choice for keepers focused on fresh eggs.

1. Introduction

The White Leghorn is a true laying specialist. Its slender build and bright white plumage give it a distinctive appearance, but its strong egg production is what makes this hen particularly attractive to keepers who enjoy collecting fresh eggs regularly.

2. Key characteristics

• Type: laying hen
• Size: light to medium
• Egg colour: white
• Egg production: approximately 280-320 eggs per year
• Temperament: active, alert and independent
• Broodiness: low
• Flying ability: good
• Colour: white
• Vaccinated: yes

Egg production is an indication and can vary depending on age, nutrition, season and living conditions.

3. Temperament and behaviour

The Leghorn is more energetic than many heavier chicken breeds. It likes to stay active, forage and explore its surroundings. Keep in mind that this hen tends to be alert and independent rather than particularly calm or easy to pick up.

4. Eggs and laying

The Leghorn is an excellent choice for anyone who wants white eggs in the egg basket. Its efficient build and high laying performance make it especially suitable when egg production is the main reason for keeping chickens.

5. Housing and care

The Leghorn benefits from plenty of room to move and forage. As it is light and a capable flyer, secure fencing deserves extra attention. A spacious, well-protected run gives this active chicken room to express its natural behaviour.

Important after purchase: newly purchased chickens should initially be fed chick meal. Gradually mix in an increasing amount of regular grain to allow a smooth transition to their subsequent diet.

6. Who is this laying hen suitable for?

A good choice for:

• keepers who prioritise high egg production;
• anyone who prefers white eggs;
• chicken keepers with sufficient foraging space;
• those who appreciate an active and independent hen.

7. Which chickens can the Leghorn live with?

The Leghorn is best combined with chickens that can cope with its active nature. Cuckoo laying hens, Brown laying hens and Bleu de Landes can be suitable companions in a mixed flock, provided there is enough space, feeding room and shelter.

8. Why choose a White Leghorn?

Choose the Leghorn if high egg production and white eggs are particularly important to you. If you are looking for a very calm chicken that is easier to handle, a more easy-going breed such as the Sussex may suit you better.

9. You may also be interested in

• Energy Boost Vivace - additional nutritional support during periods of increased needs.
• Drinking bell - a practical way of providing drinking water to several active chickens.
• Emeraude green layer - interesting for anyone wanting to combine white eggs with a more unusual egg colour.

10. Advice from De Hagedoorn

The Leghorn is an excellent option when plenty of fresh eggs are more important than having a particularly calm chicken. Provide sufficient room to move and take its flying ability into account when setting up the run.

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).