Australorp

Sunday, 3rd October 2010
Australorp -Harvey & Craig

Australorp -Harvey & Craig

As the name would suggest Australorp is an Australian chicken breed (arrived in 1890) and is also an abbreviation of Australian black Orpington. The Australorp originates from the English Orpington. The Australorp is well-suited to Australian conditions and is one of the most efficient egg layers, averaging over 300 eggs per hen per year in a commercial setting. However, backyard poultry producers should not expect more than 250 eggs a year. The Black Australorp is an ideal bird for free range production as they have a good temperament. A durable bird they are suitable for both eggs and meat.

Classification

Soft feather-heavy

Appearance

  • Black with a green shine, or
  • Pure white

Australorp Male
Images courtesy NEEPA

Australorp Male

Australorp Female

Australorp Female

Weight

Large Australorps
Cock 3.9 – 4.7 Kg
Hen 3.0 – 3.6 Kg
Cockerel 3.2 – 3.6 Kg
Pullet 3.3 – 4.20 Kg
Bantam Australorps
Cock 1.2
Hen 790g
Cockerel 1.6 – 2.1 Kg
Pullet 1.3 – 1. 9 Kg

Egg colour

Light brown/tinted

Image Courtesy

Suz Craig & Ros Harvey: Roosters & Hens – for the appreciative eye, Ballyhay Books, 2006.

Back to list of fancy chicken breeds

See Also

External links