The Cuckoo laying hen combines good egg production with distinctive grey-black cuckoo plumage. An attractive choice for adding both eggs and variety to your flock.

1. Introduction

The Cuckoo laying hen immediately stands out thanks to its attractive grey-black cuckoo plumage. It adds visual variety to a mixed flock while primarily being kept for its good egg production.

2. Key characteristics

• Type: laying hen
• Size: medium
• Egg colour: brown
• Egg production: approximately 250-300 eggs per year
• Temperament: active and curious
• Flying ability: moderate
• Appearance: grey-black cuckoo plumage
• Vaccinated: yes

Annual production is an indication. Age, nutrition, season and living conditions affect the actual number of eggs.

3. Temperament and behaviour

This laying hen is an active forager that enjoys exploring its surroundings. With sufficient space, it fits well into a varied backyard flock, while the distinctive plumage provides an attractive contrast to traditional brown or white laying hens.

4. Eggs and laying

This chicken has been selected as a laying hen and is therefore considerably more productive than the purebred Malines. Egg production is highest during the best laying period and naturally decreases as the hen gets older.

5. Housing and care

Provide enough space for this active laying hen to forage, together with a sheltered coop and secure run.

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

6. Who is this laying hen suitable for?

A good choice for:

• backyard keepers who want fresh eggs regularly;
• anyone wanting different chicken colours in one flock;
• new and experienced chicken keepers;
• mixed flocks with other laying hens.

7. Which chickens can it live with?

The Cuckoo laying hen combines well with other laying hens of a similar size and activity level. White Sussex, Brown laying hens and Black laying hens are interesting companions for creating a varied flock.

8. Why choose the Cuckoo laying hen?

This hen is a good option when you want to combine egg production with distinctive plumage. Its cuckoo colouring adds variety to the flock without having to choose a less productive ornamental chicken.

9. You may also be interested in

• Roosens Poeljenmeel - suitable for the initial feeding period of newly purchased young chickens.
• Calcium Boost - a supplementary poultry product when additional calcium support is desired.
• Barbary duck - an interesting option for those who would also like to keep other poultry.

10. Advice from De Hagedoorn

Choose the Cuckoo laying hen if you want a productive layer that looks noticeably different from a traditional brown hen. Combining several colours of laying hens creates an attractive mixed flock while keeping the focus on fresh eggs.

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).