Rhode Island Red Chickens: Breed Profile

The Rhode Island Red is a rich, dark red chicken with a long, rectangular body, yellow skin and brown eggs. It is one of the most recognized breeds in the United States and the state bird of Rhode Island.

History

The breed was developed in Rhode Island and nearby parts of Massachusetts in the late nineteenth century, from crosses involving Asian breeds such as the Malay and local stock. Breeders selected for hardiness, egg production and body shape. The American Poultry Association admitted the breed to its Standard in 1904. Two comb types are recognized, single and rose.

Purpose

Rhode Island Reds were developed as a dual-purpose bird, good for eggs and meat. Hatchery strains are often bred for heavy laying and can differ a lot from exhibition strains bred to the Standard. Hens commonly lay brown eggs, and the birds are hardy and adaptable.

Where the breed stands today

The breed is common. Production strains dominate in backyard flocks, while a smaller group of breeders maintain exhibition lines. The Livestock Conservancy has been concerned about the exhibition type in the past, so check the current list for details.

Showing Rhode Island Reds at 4-H and FFA

Pros

• Recognized breed. The variety has a clear place in the American Standard and poultry classes.
• Hardy. The breed handles many climates and management styles.
• Easy to find. Chicks are widely available.
• Useful project. Egg production can offset costs.
• Many class options. Single comb and rose comb varieties give some flexibility.

Cons

• Strain mismatch. Hatchery birds often do not match the Standard and may place poorly against exhibition birds.
• Temperament varies. Some roosters can be aggressive, so handle them carefully.
• Color care. Showing deep, even red feathers takes attention to nutrition and sun exposure.
• Competition. Experienced breeders bring strong exhibition lines.
• Biosecurity. Shows involve health rules that apply to every bird.

What to look for in a Rhode Island Red show bird

The Standard calls for a long, broad, rectangular body, a rich, even red color, yellow skin and strong legs. The comb may be single or rose, and the bird should have a calm, alert look. Males and females should have a straight back and a well-carried tail. Check the bird for clean eyes, clean legs and good feather condition, and look for uneven color or washed-out patches that can count against it.

Questions to ask a breeder

• Is the bird from exhibition-type stock or a hatchery strain?
• Is the comb single or rose, and is that the type I want to show?
• How has the flock been fed and managed?
• Has she been handled and trained for hands-on judging?
• Does the breeder follow the American Poultry Association Standard?

Choose a breeder who shows birds, because they know what judges look for.

Bottom line

The Rhode Island Red is a good beginner breed if you buy from a breeder who works to the Standard. A hatchery bird makes a fine flock bird, but may not be competitive in the show ring.

Read our guide to How Showmanship Is Judged before your first show. agriculture.directory lists feed stores and vets, and farm.fm has Chicken Mutiny.