The breed Ancona chicken is originally from central Italy. In the nineteenth century, these beautiful white speckled black hens were exported from the Marks in England. From there spread to many countries specially selected for their aesthetic characteristics, while They were now abandoned due to being replaced by hybrid batteries On industrial farms after the war in Italy.
As a result, is that today it is easily found in the poultry exhibits Ancona with bloodlines selected abroad. So it has become very difficult to find the original Italian strain in increasingly rare rural pens. The native Ancona had many white feathers arranged irregularly. The Ancona Chicken with the pink crest in 1910, at an exhibition in Birmingham, was the first time it was shown.
While in some countries there are varieties of Ancona chicken with the pink ridge. The variety grown in England is larger than the one selected in the United States. It is a light breed with the ability to produce white eggs. In Italy, it is officially recognized. It is very lively and strong.
Characteristics of Ancona Chicken
Ancona Chicken has black plumage with metallic green highlights and touches, soft and well adherent to the body. In addition, the Ancona has a moderately long head. The trunk is long and wide at shoulder height. The crest of the Italian standard is simple, straight. The male is straight with a very prominent posterior lobe. In the female, it contracts slightly towards the side without covering the eye. You May Also Like To Read Brahma Chicken.
It has a strong, slightly arched peak of yellow with black stripes over the top. The eyes are orange, in addition, they are large and outstanding. The color of the ears is between white, cream color and almond color; Chin red, moderately large and elongated; Red and smooth face. Medium-length collar with abundant plumage. Wide and rounded shoulders, as well as the loin. Wings wide and large, horizontal and well adherent to the body.
Chest broad and somewhat prominent. Large tail with abundant plumage, open and medium-high with an angle of 45/50 ° in the rooster and 40/45 ° in the hen. Legs moderately long and well visible; Tarsi of medium length, without feathers, four fingers, yellow with dark mottling from black to black (scarcity or absence of specks is not a serious defect).
Middleweight
- Roosters kg 2,5 – 2,8
- Hens kg 1.8 – 2.1
The eggs have a white shell and weigh at least 50 grams. Abundant plumage, smooth and adherent. Broad and round feathers. The only coloration is black with white speckles. In both sexes, the plumage is bright black with metallic green reflections. In addition, the tips of the feathers are white and have the shape of a “V”. A severe defect is mottling too large or impure.
Food
The Ancona Chicken is fed with farmed farm food and certified organic producers and processors, who have not received any traditional vaccine except mandatory for Newcastle disease (or “Newcastle disease”), prevention is done by administration Of homeopathic remedies.
Usage
The Ancona Chicken’s usefulness is to present it in exhibitions and for the production of eggs.
Special Feature
Hence the Ancona Chicken is a rustic breed, very lively and strong, with a special attitude to the deposition of medium-sized white eggs. The conservation project “Chicken Ancona” has been operating since 2005 in collaboration with the Rural Culture Association, currently in Italy. Which is concerned with the conservation of rural biodiversity, in order to bring to the pens this beautiful hen at risk of abandonment.
In addition, The Association of Rural Culture gives the opportunity to provide the eggs selected for hatching, or, depending on the seasons, chickens and chickens or adults.
Chicken Profile
| Chicken name | Ancona Chicken |
| Other Name | Any |
| Chicken Purpose | Exhibition and eggs laying |
| Feather color | Black, white and green |
| Weight | 1.8 to 2,8 Kg |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Egg Color | White |
| Egg Size | Medium |
| Egg Productivity | Medium (80 to 100 eggs in the year). |
| Rarity | Normal |
| Country of Origin | Italy |
FAQ
Are Ancona chickens good egg layers?
Yes, Ancona chickens are great egg layers! They lay a large number of eggs each year, averaging around 250-280 eggs. The eggs are white and medium-sized, making them ideal for baking or eating. Anconas are also known for their loyal nature and will often remain with the same flock for many years. They’re friendly birds that get along well with other breeds, making them great additions to any backyard flock.
Are Ancona chickens friendly?
Yes, Ancona chickens are known to be a friendly breed. They are active and curious birds that enjoy interacting with their owners. They have an outgoing personality and love being handled, making them great family pets. Anconas are also quite hardy and can withstand cold temperatures, so they make a great choice for those living in cooler climates. Additionally, they are known for their entertaining behaviors such as running around and playing tag with each other. All of these traits make them a fun addition to any backyard flock!
Are Ancona chickens noisy?
Ancona chickens are not particularly loud, making them a great choice for homesteaders. They are hardy and easy to care for, making them ideal for beginners. Additionally, they are good egg layers, producing up to 150 eggs per year. This makes them a great choice for homesteaders looking to add an additional source of income or food to their property.
Conclusion
If you’ve ever wondered what the difference is between an Ancona and a Rhode Island Red, this article will give you all the details. We hope that our guide has helped to clear up some of your questions about chicken breeds. Good luck with your chickens!
As a References: Wikipedia
