No, happening upon a blue-colored chicken isn’t something that happens once in a blue moon! Blue feathered chicken breeds have been around for many years already, and more blue breeds are being introduced. There is no denying that blue chickens are an absolute marvel, but are there blue breeds you can add to your flock?
Allow us to introduce to 10 blue chicken breeds that are natural works of art:
How Do I Get a Blue Chicken?
Blue feathers is all about science. No, blue chickens are not the product of a science experiment gone wrong. They are, in fact, naturally occurring. That could be why these birds are also incredibly beautiful. But how does a blue chicken happen?
Turns out, blue feathers are based on three factors: genotypes, phenotypes, and naturally occurring self-blue or lavender genes.
Here is a look at those three factors:
1. Genotypes
A genotype is something that every living thing has, you and chickens alike. And while you might not share genetics with chickens, genotypes work for humans as they do for chickens. For example, if you have naturally brown hair, it’s because someone in your family also has brown hair.
For blue chickens, black (BB) and splash (bb) genes are required. The BB-gene dilutes the splash gene (think Sapphire Splash, Splash Orpington, etc) which, when combined, creates a Bb-gene.
In order to get this combination, a breeder will select a mom and dad from black and splash breeds. This ensures a blue chicken.
2. Phenotypes
A phenotype is generated by a genotype. It dictates appearance, such as blue or white feathers. Since the Bb-gene is considered diluted, there are many phenotypes to be discovered.
This explains why some blue chickens look black while others look pastel blue.
3. Self-Blue Breeds
Some breeds have always bred blue, though it is not true blue. A self-blue breed will hatch with lavender down. There is no need to combine black and splash genotypes.
10 Gorgeous Blue Chicken Breeds
Now that you know how blue chickens came about, here is a look at 10 blue chicken breeds:
1. Blue Andalusian
Originating from Spain, the Blue Andalusian is a stunning bird. You can expect many compliments on these birds, as well as plenty of eggs. A Blue Andalusian hen will lay around 3 eggs a week, or around 150 a year.
These chickens are best kept in warmer climates where there is plenty of shade. They are not the biggest fans of the cold, so make sure they at least have some place warm to hide. One bonus of this breed, though, is that the cold doesn’t stop hens from laying eggs.
Blue Andalusian chickens have few health concerns to worry about. In terms of temperament, they are friendly, but they do not tolerate cuddling. Also, be prepared to open up the yard to let them roam, as this breed dislikes being cramped.
2. Blue Cochin
The Blue Cochin is a favorite among chicken keepers for many reasons. First off, this is one of the friendliest breeds you will ever come across. Who doesn’t love a chicken that wants to give you hugs and gentle pecks on the cheek?
The Blue Cochin also has smokey blue plumage that is elegant and eye-catching. Even without their frizzle — or feathers that curl upward — they are appealing. They are sure to jazz up any flock without causing a riot. That said, you should not expect too many eggs from Blue Cochins. They produce 2 eggs a week, resulting in about 100 eggs a year.
3. Blue Silkie
Quirkiness encapsulated in a bird? That would be the Blue Silkie. As with all Silkies, these adorable little balls of fall are great if you want to tell people you have tribbles invading your yard. Blue Silkie chickens are huggable, entertaining, and one of the best breeds for children to care for.
You can also depend on Silkies for a good amount of meat and eggs during their lifetime. A Silkie hen will lay around 3 eggs per week, totaling around 150 eggs per year. Despite their smaller size, they also have delicious meat. In some countries, Silkie chicken is a delicacy.
Keep in mind that if you bring a few Blue Silkies home, they are going to play hide-and-seek with you — something these birds excel at. Good luck finding them!
4. Blue Sumatra
Stunning in their appearance, the Blue Sumatra chicken is easy on the eyes. Interestingly, because the Blue Sumatra looks a little like a raptor and a peacock combined, some have argued that it has no right calling itself a chicken. Rest assured, the Sumatra chicken is a unique breed.
Blue Sumatra chickens can fly a reasonable distance. Roosters have an ornamental tail that trails behind them beautifully; their blue-tinted plumage shimmers in the sunlight. They are sweet birds for the yard. Just don’t expect this rare breed to do much for you otherwise. Blue Sumatra hens average around 1 egg a week, and their meat is not of the best quality.
5. Blue Ameraucana
Known for their blue eggs, the Blue Ameraucana has received much praise for beauty and productivity. Not to mention they also have a unique appearance — one that gives them a feathery mustache. Blue Ameraucana are also friendly and love wandering around the yard with their friends by their side. That makes them a great breed for families with children.
As mentioned earlier, the Blue Ameraucana lays blue eggs. The eggs are no different from normal eggs, but you may be able to charge more for the novelty. Besides, who doesn’t want to say they had a blue egg in the morning?
6. Blue Copper Maran
Hailing from France, the Blue Copper Maran has been around since the 1880s. Wild game was mixed with other Maran chickens to develop this sensational coloring. Friendly and curious, Blue Copper Marans adapt well to both free-range and confinement. They are easy to raise and don’t stir up trouble with the pecking order. You don’t have to worry about them bullying others.
What you do have to worry about is any Blue Copper Maran with feathered legs. You will have to give them a little extra care to keep those birds healthy.
Overall, these birds lay around 150-200 eggs annually. Sometimes, their eggs are a dark chocolate brown.
7. Blue Laced Red Wyandotte
Although not entirely blue, you can’t deny that the Wyandotte breed is a gem. Blue Wyandottes are also available, but the blue lacing looks incredible beside other chickens. Overall, the Wyandotte chicken is an excellent addition to any yard. They are dual purpose, calm, and friendly. If you want a companion that gives you gifts throughout the week, a Blue Laced Red Wyandotte is the way to go.
Additionally, if you don’t have a lot of experience raising and caring for chickens, the Blue Laced Red Wyandotte is a forgiving breed. As long as you give them some feed and a place to run around, they will live happy, vibrant lives. And they will look good doing it. The only caveat: Don’t expect Wyandottes to get along with other breeds all that well.
8. Blue Bresse Gauloise
Looking for a chic breed? Turn your attention to the Bresse Gauloise, a French chicken. While this breed may not look as eye-catching as others on this list, it is not to be underestimated. Being that the Blue Bresse Gauloise is a dual purpose breed, you can use it for both meat and eggs. In fact, their meat is so delicious that you might become addicted (though their meat is expensive). They also produce around 200 eggs a year.
The Blue Bresse Gauloise is not completely blue, though you can spot blue iridescence on their feathers in the sunlight to match their blue feet. There is much more to this breed than meets the eye!
9. Delaware Blue Hen
Often called the Blue Hen, this breed may not be recognized by the American Poultry Association, but it is famous. During the American Revolutionary War, there was a large amount of cockfighting happening to entertain the masses. Somewhere along the line, a rooster met a hen, and that is where the story of the Delaware Blue Hen begins.
They have steely blue feathers and have a fighting chicken stance, even the ladies. Plus, they are a dual purpose breed. You can use a Delaware Blue Hen for her eggs (which amount to around 250 eggs a year) then procure a generous bounty of meat once she no longer lays eggs.
But don’t let that stop you from keeping Delaware Blue Hens as pets either. They are enjoyable fowl to keep around — and well loved by all who have them.
10. Blue Plymouth Rock
Combine an Andalusian rooster with a Plymouth Barred Rock hen, and what do you get? A Blue Plymouth Rock chicken. These birds have gorgeous plumage of soft slate blue and lavender. Calm and inquisitive, they make excellent additions to the yard. Let them free range when possible, as it is what they do best. In fact, you will never need to call for pest control when you have Blue Plymouth Rock chickens on the job.
You can also make a profit on eggs with this APA-recognized breed. Blue Plymouth Rock chickens lay around 300 brown eggs annually! They also don’t take holidays during the colder months.
Final Thoughts
How about a round of applause for these 10 gorgeous blue chicken breeds? Like humans, dogs, and cats, chickens come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. Therefore, if you are looking for a blue chicken to add to your flock, why not consider one of these 10? They are sure to be a great addition.
Valerie has been content writing since 2016 for websites and companies all around the world. A traveler, dancer, martial artist, Valerie loves gathering experiences and wisdom. Her travels have taken her to over 20 countries, and she hopes to see more of the world soon.
