Raising Welsummer Chickens: Your Guide to Chicks, Growth, and Care
The Welsummer chicken is a beloved breed known for its stunning plumage, rich brown speckled eggs, and practical uses. Ideal for backyard flocks, they combine charm and productivity with a laid-back demeanor. In this blog, we’ll cover their origins, characteristics, egg-laying details, and chick care to help you raise these delightful birds.
Origination of the Welsummer Chicken
The Welsummer chicken breed originated in the Netherlands, specifically in the village of Welsum, during the early 20th century. It was developed through selective breeding of local chickens, resulting in the hardy and versatile Welsummer chicken breed we know today. They are typically a bit larger than bantam breeds, although Welsummer bantam chicken is a popular choice among smaller flock owners due to their manageable size. Celebrated for their dual-purpose qualities and attractive egg color Welsummer chicken, the breed was officially recognized in the 1920s. Today, the Welsummer chicken hen is prized by backyard poultry keepers for its beauty, temperament, and consistent egg production.
Welsummers are often considered a true heritage Welsummer chicken due to their long history, maintaining their traits throughout the years. They are known for their resilience in various climates and have been selectively bred for optimal egg production, making them an excellent choice for backyard flocks. Below, we’ll explore fascinating Welsummer chicken facts and helpful tips for raising this wonderful breed.
Welsummer Chicken. Source: Pip and Grow
Breed Characteristics
When considering Welsummer chicks, it’s important to note that these birds have a rich history, with a strong reputation as a dual-purpose breed, used for both eggs and meat. The breed is often compared with other popular egg layers like the Speckled Sussex chicken, and Welsummer vs Speckled Sussex chicks can sometimes be a topic of discussion among breeders due to slight differences in temperament and egg color.
Welsummer chickens are medium to large in size, with a robust build and attractive plumage. The Welsummer chicken size is moderate, making them a suitable bird for both egg-laying and meat purposes. However, if you prefer smaller chickens, the Welsummer bantam chick is a great alternative, offering the same characteristics but in a more compact size.
The Welsummer chicken characteristics include strong foraging instincts and a calm, friendly temperament. Welsummer chickens are hardy, but like all chickens, they require good care, proper nutrition, and shelter to thrive. Their Welsummer chicken temperament is generally docile, though Welsummer roosters can be assertive and occasionally noisy.
Welsummer male vs female chicks can be differentiated fairly early. The males, or Welsummer rooster chicks, tend to develop larger combs and more vibrant feathering, while female Welsummer chicks—also called Welsummer pullet chicks—stay smaller and less colorful until maturity. The Welsummer chicken noise is generally moderate in noise level compared to other breeds. Hens make soft clucking sounds and occasional calls, while roosters can be vocal, especially in the morning. They are not excessively noisy, making them a suitable choice for backyard flocks in suburban settings.
Recognized Colors of the Welsummer Chicken
Welsummer chickens are prized for their rich, mahogany-red plumage, with variations depending on the strain. Show-standard birds are expected to have deep-colored feathers with a well-proportioned body. In competitions, a bird’s Welsummer chicken leg color is also evaluated—yellow legs are preferred in show-quality chickens. The color of the Welsummer chicken eggs is another critical factor in their appeal, with their signature speckled brown shells making them stand out. Show-quality Welsummers are judged on their Welsummer chicken characteristics, including size, feathering, and overall appearance. The recognized colors of the Welsummer chicken by show standards include:
Red-brown
Black-brown
Partridge
These colors are often accompanied by the breed's signature welsummer brown speckled chicken eggs, which add to their visual appeal. Additionally, some chicken breeds Welsummer cross with other breeds like the black sex link chicken crossed with Welsummer to produce hybrids with unique characteristics and egg-laying abilities.
Egg Laying Details
Welsummer chicken hatching eggs are reliable, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to incubate their own flock. A baby Welsummers chicken typically hatches from one of these eggs, beginning life as a small but feisty chick. Welsummer chickens are excellent layers, consistently producing Welsummer chicken eggs throughout the year. The The Welsummer chicken egg size tends to be consistent, with eggs being brown and often speckled. Welsummer chicken egg color is also notably speckled brown, and the eggs are medium-sized, making them perfect for both commercial and home use. Welsummer chickens are reliable layers, producing 160–200 medium-to-large brown eggs annually under ideal conditions. Their productivity makes them a favorite among backyard chicken keepers. These eggs are sought after for their Welsummer chicken egg production and the distinct color of Welsummer chicken eggs, which includes a variety of shades of brown with speckles.
When it comes to Welsummer chicks hatching, welsummer pullet chicken start producing eggs around 6 months of age. Welsummer chicken laying age is ideal by this point, as hens begin their peak egg-laying phase. Some poultry enthusiasts prefer to cross Welsummers with chicks like the Ameraucana or Welsummer chicks for unique egg colors, such as green or blue eggs, creating an exciting variety of eggs in the basket.
The egg color of the Welsummer chicken is one of its most attractive features. The eggs are known for their deep brown color, often speckled, which adds a touch of charm to any egg basket.
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Chick Care Details
The early stages of baby Welsummer chicken require special attention. Welsummers chicks hatching can be a delicate process, as proper temperature and humidity levels are crucial for successful incubation. Once hatched, the chicks should be kept warm and given high-protein feed to ensure their growth.
Caring for Welsummer chicks is relatively straightforward. When raising Welsummer chicks, it's essential to provide them with a warm and safe environment. Here are some key points to consider:
Temperature: Keep the brooder at a temperature of 95°F (35°C) for the first week, gradually decreasing it by 5°F (2.5°C) each week until the chicks are fully feathered, usually by 6 weeks of age.
Bedding: Use clean, dry bedding to prevent respiratory issues.
Nutrition: Provide a high-quality chick starter feed to ensure proper growth and development.
The Welsummer chicken maturity process typically takes 5 to 6 months, depending on factors like diet and care. During this time, both males and females grow into their full adult size and begin displaying their characteristic colors. At this stage, hens will start laying eggs, and roosters will start to show their protective instincts.
Welsummer Chick Identification
Welsummer chicks are typically yellow with some dark markings, making them relatively easy to identify. As they grow, their distinctive feather patterns will begin to emerge, showcasing the breed's unique welsummer chicken characteristics. The difference between male and female Welsummer chicks is often noticeable after a few weeks, as males tend to have larger combs and more distinct feathering. Welsummer cockerel chicks (male) usually grow faster and develop more vibrant coloring compared to Welsummer female chicks, also known as Welsummer pullet chicks.
The Welsummer chicken outline is quite distinctive, with a sturdy, medium-sized body and a bold, upright stance. Their feathers are dense, and their color variations make them stand out in any flock. The unique appearance of Welsummer chickens makes them a prized breed for poultry enthusiasts and farmers alike.
Welsummer Chick Sexing
Welsummer chickens are often referred to as “sex-linked” or “easily sexed” rather than truly autosexing. Here’s the distinction and clarification:
Autosexing vs. Easily Sexed
Autosexing Breeds:
In a true autosexing breed (e.g., Cream Legbars), the male and female chicks exhibit consistent physical differences (like color or markings) at hatch, based on specific genetic traits. This feature is a fixed genetic trait passed down through generations.
Easily Sexed Welsummers:
Welsummer chicks can be sexed by their feather patterns after hatching (like a darker head stripe or V-mark on females, while males are lighter and less defined). However, this is not true autosexing because the sexing depends on observable traits that aren’t strictly tied to an autosexing gene. Additionally, the markings can occasionally overlap or be inconsistent, especially if the breeding line is not well-maintained.
Why the confusion?
Welsummers are frequently mistaken as autosexing because they can be sexed with high accuracy by trained breeders due to their feather and stripe patterns. The term “autosexing” has been misapplied in casual conversations to mean “easy to sex,” even though it’s technically incorrect.
Welsummer chicks are not autosexing, but they are sex-linked or feather-sexable with experience and careful observation. True autosexing breeds, like the Cream Legbar, are rare and involve precise genetic selection for autosexing traits.
Behavior of Female Welsummer Chicken
Female Welsummer chicks typically mature into docile and friendly hens. The Welsummer hen is known for being calm, friendly, and easy to handle, which makes them a good choice for families or backyard flocks. Their calm demeanor helps them get along well with other birds, though they may assert their dominance occasionally, especially if the flock includes other dominant hens.
Welsummer pullet chickens typically remain gentle and relatively quiet compared to their male counterparts. They tend to thrive in a well-maintained environment where they are allowed to free-range, but they do just as well in more confined spaces. Their ability to forage for food makes them self-sufficient and low-maintenance, although they should still be provided with proper nutrition and shelter to ensure health and productivity.
Behavior of Welsummer Chicken Roosters
The Welsummer chicken rooster stands out with its vibrant colors and strong presence in the flock. Known for their excellent foraging skills, these roosters are often seen keeping a watchful eye on their hens. If you're raising Welsummer chickens, having a rooster can help ensure your flock stays well-protected and thrives. Welsummer roosters are known for their protective nature and may exhibit assertive behavior, especially during breeding season or in mixed flocks. While they are not typically aggressive, their temperament can vary. The peak fertility age for Welsummer roosters is around 6 to 12 months, and they can remain fertile for up to 2 years. The Welsummer male vs female chick differentiation is more pronounced at this age, as the comb and wattle size on males grow larger, while the females remain smaller and more reserved.
Raising Welsummer male chicks can be rewarding, but they require extra attention to ensure they grow into strong, healthy cockerels. The Welsummer female chicks will grow into reliable layers, providing eggs that range in color from a beautiful reddish-brown to speckled hues. The Welsummer chicken male vs female traits are easier to identify as the chicks grow, with males becoming larger and more colorful.
Breed Purpose
The Welsummer chicken is primarily valued for its egg production, although its medium size also makes it suitable for small-scale meat production when necessary. Welsummer chicken meat is flavorful, though not as widely sought after as some other breeds. The Welsummer chicken origin historically has been used for both purposes, but it is most renowned for its consistent production of Welsummer chicken eggs.
Average Lifespan
The Welsummer chickens have an average livespan of around 5 to 10 years, depending on factors such as care, diet, and living conditions. This long lifespan makes them a great choice for those looking for a reliable and hardy breed. The Welsummer chicken parentage plays an important role in the overall health and longevity of the bird, and a healthy lineage often means a longer lifespan. Like most chickens, they are susceptible to predators and environmental factors, so keeping them in a safe and secure environment is essential for longevity. Welsummer chicken lifespan can also be influenced by the care they receive, including a proper diet, a clean living environment, and regular health checks.
Pictures of 5 Week Old Welsummer Chicks. Source: Mike’s Chickens
Best Care and Housing for the Breed
Welsummer chickens are adaptable to a range of housing conditions, but they do best in a spacious, secure coop with plenty of room to roam. The ideal housing for Welsummer chickens should be well-ventilated, dry, and safe from predators. For baby Welsummer chickens, ensure that they are kept warm and in a safe environment until they grow old enough to join the adult flock.
Welsummer bantam chicks require more attention due to their smaller size, but they still follow similar care routines as their larger counterparts. These smaller bantam Welsummer chicken are often raised in backyard flocks and are prized for their excellent egg-laying and unique, compact size.
Ideal Weather and Temperature
The Welsummer chicken is hardy, but like all chickens, they thrive in moderate temperatures. They can adapt to both hot and cold climates, but extreme temperatures may stress them. Their feathers provide some insulation, but during particularly cold weather, extra measures like supplemental heat or insulated housing may be needed.
Finding Welsummer Chicks for Sale
If you're ready to welcome Welsummer chicks into your coop, the first step is locating a reliable source. You can search for "Welsummer chicks for sale near me" to find local hatcheries or breeders. Many online hatcheries also offer shipping options for day-old Welsummer chicks, ensuring you can start your flock no matter where you live. Looking to get started? Search for "buy Welsummer chicks" to find reputable sellers. Many breeders and hatcheries offer healthy, vaccinated chicks, and some even provide helpful guides for new chicken owners. You can also see more Welsummer chicken for sale at Roobeez Marketplace.
Understanding Welsummer Chick Development
Raising Welsummer chicks is a rewarding experience. Here’s a week-by-week look at their development to help you understand what to expect:
Day Old Welsummer Chicks: Newly hatched Welsummer chicks are tiny, fluffy, and incredibly adorable. These Welsummer day old chicks need a warm brooder and constant care to thrive.
2 Week Old Welsummer Chicks: By two weeks, your chicks will be more active and curious. Welsummer chicks 2 weeks old will start showing early feather development and will need plenty of space to explore safely.
3 Week Old Welsummer Chicks: At this stage, Welsummer chicks 3 weeks old begin growing more feathers, replacing their baby fluff. They’ll need access to a secure area where they can practice stretching their wings.
4 Week Old Welsummer Chicks: Welsummer chicks 4 weeks old are halfway to being fully feathered. At this age, you’ll notice significant growth and increased independence. Searching for "Welsummer chicks 4 weeks" or "Welsummer chicks 4 weeks old" will show you what to expect visually at this stage.
5 Week Old Welsummer Chicks: By now, your 5-week-old Welsummer chicks will have most of their feathers and may start showing the unique coloring that makes this breed stand out.
6 Week Old Welsummer Chicks: During this time, a 6 week Welsummer chicken will look more like miniature adults. They’re usually ready to transition to outdoor living, provided the weather is mild.
7 Week Old Welsummer Chicks: 7-week-old Welsummer chicks are well on their way to maturity. They’ll continue to grow and develop their signature feather patterns and vibrant colors.
8 Week Old Welsummer Chicks: By eight weeks, Welsummer chicks are well-developed but not yet fully grown. Full maturity, including adult feathering and size, is typically reached at around 16–20 weeks.
Nutritional Requirements
Welsummers require a balanced diet to maintain their health and ensure steady egg production. Providing a good mix of grains, greens, and protein is key to their well-being. Welsummer chicken chicks up until they become Welsummer pullet chick require higher protein levels during their growth stages, which helps them mature into healthy, productive adult birds.
Common Ailments or Sickness
Welsummers, like all chicken breeds, can face common health challenges such as respiratory diseases (Mycoplasma, infectious bronchitis, etc), external parasites (like mites), and internal parasites (like worms). Regular health checks, proper vaccinations, and a clean living environment are essential for prevention.
Welsummer Egg Laying Tendencies
Welsummer hens lay eggs consistently throughout the year, averaging 160–200 eggs annually under good care. The eggs are medium to large, with a brown speckled chicken egg appearance. Welsummer chicken egg production is steady throughout the year, with a slight dip during molting season.
Average Cost of Babies and Full-Grown Chickens
The average cost of Welsummer chicks is typically around $4 to $6, though prices may vary depending on location and the breeder. Welsummer baby chicks are a great investment for backyard flocks, providing both eggs and meat for the family.
Fully grown Welsummer chickens generally cost between $20 and $30, with heritage Welsummer chicken birds often fetching a higher price due to their lineage and quality. These birds are a great addition to any flock, especially for those seeking quality eggs and meat.
Showing Welsummer Chickens
When showing Welsummer chickens, judges look for birds that meet the breed standards. Welsummer chicken facts such as the bird's egg color, feathering, and overall health play an important role in competitions.
SOP for Hens
The SOP for hens includes a well-rounded body, consistent plumage, and good egg-laying records.
Size: Medium
Color: Rich red-brown or black-brown
Egg production: Consistent and high-quality eggs
SOP for Roosters
The SOP for roosters emphasizes strong combs, vibrant plumage, and an assertive yet calm demeanor. Welsummer rooster chicks should show strong development from an early age, which can be a good indicator of their future success as a mature rooster.
Size: Medium
Color: Bright and vibrant plumage
Temperament: Calm and friendly
Pros and Cons of a Welsummer Chicken
Like any breed, Welsummer chickens come with their pros and cons. Some of the benefits include the Welsummer chicken personality —their friendly temperament, ability to lay beautiful brown eggs, and excellent foraging skills. However, they do require a bit more attention compared to other breeds, especially when it comes to handling the Welsummer rooster and caring for young Welsummer chicks. It's important to weigh the pros and cons of a Welsummer chicken before deciding if they are right for your farm.
5 Funny Facts About the Welsummer Chicken
Welsummer chickens are known to be quite chatty, often engaging in lively conversations with their keepers.
They have a unique way of strutting around the yard, almost as if they are showing off their beautiful feathers.
Welsummer hens can be quite picky about their nesting spots, often rearranging bedding to create the perfect nest.
These chickens have been known to "talk back" when you try to shoo them away from a favorite spot.
Welsummer roosters can be quite the gentlemen, often seen escorting their hens around the yard.
Welsummer Chicken FAQ
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The Welsummer chicken is a Dutch breed of domestic chicken that originated in the village of Welsum in the eastern Netherlands. It was developed in the early 20th century from local fowls of mixed origin, including Rhode Island Reds, Barnevelders, Partridge Leghorns, Cochins, and Wyandottes. Welsummers are known for their striking appearance and excellent egg-laying capabilities.
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Welsummer chickens lay medium to large eggs that are a rich, dark brown color, often with a speckled appearance.
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Welsummer chicken eggs are characterized by their deep brown color, often speckled, which adds to their visual appeal.
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Welsummer chickens can start laying eggs as early as 5 to 6 months of age, depending on their health and living conditions.
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Welsummer chicks are typically yellow with some dark markings. As they grow, they develop distinctive feather patterns that reflect the breed's unique characteristics.
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Welsummer chicks are not autosexing, meaning their sex cannot be determined by color or markings at hatching. To sex Welsummer chicks, you may need to wait until they mature, as males will develop larger combs and wattles compared to females.
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Welsummer chicks can flutter or hop to low perches, but as adults, they are poor fliers due to their medium-to-large size. Proper fencing is recommended to keep them safe and contained.
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While Leghorn chickens are highly productive layers, they differ from Welsummers in significant ways, including egg color (white vs. brown) and overall productivity (250–300 eggs annually for Leghorns compared to 160–200 for Welsummers).
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Welsummer chickens are medium-sized birds with a robust build. They have a broad body, well-rounded breast, and striking plumage that can come in various colors, including red-brown and black-brown. Their friendly demeanor and unique feather patterns make them visually appealing.
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No, Welsummer chicks are not autosexing. The sex of newly-hatched chicks cannot be determined by their color or markings.
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The Welsummer chicken is a beloved breed known for its stunning plumage, rich brown speckled eggs, and practical uses. Ideal for backyard flocks, they combine charm and productivity with a laid-back demeanor. In this guide, we’ll cover their origins, characteristics, egg-laying details, and chick care to help you raise these delightful birds.