What Chicken Lays Blue Eggs?

Introduction

When you hear about blue eggs, you might wonder, “What chicken lays blue eggs?” This is an interesting topic for many backyard chicken keepers and poultry enthusiasts. Knowing which chickens lay blue eggs can add some variety to your egg basket and even help you in poultry farming.

In this guide, you’ll learn about the different types of chickens that lay blue eggs, their benefits, and how to care for them.

What Chicken Lays Blue Eggs?

Some specific chicken breeds lay blue eggs. These chickens have a unique gene that causes them to lay eggs with a blue shell. Blue eggs are popular not just for their pretty color but also for their uniqueness in the egg market.

Types of Chickens That Lay Blue Eggs

There are several breeds of chickens known for laying blue eggs. Here’s a look at some of them:

Araucana Chickens

• Origin and History: Araucana chickens come from Chile. They were first bred by the Araucana people. They are known for their distinctive look, often having no tail.
• Characteristics: Araucanas are hardy birds. They are medium-sized and can be quite friendly. They lay blue eggs consistently.

Ameraucana Chickens

• Origin and History: Ameraucana chickens were developed in the United States in the 1970s. They are a mix of Araucana and other breeds.
• Characteristics: Ameraucanas have a beard and muffs, giving them a unique look. They are friendly and good layers of blue eggs.

Easter Egger Chickens

• Origin and History: Easter Egger chickens are not a true breed but a mix that carries the blue egg gene. They can come from various backgrounds.
• Characteristics: These chickens are known for their colorful eggs, which can be blue, green, or even pink. They are hardy and friendly birds.

Cream Legbar Chickens

• Origin and History: Cream Legbars were developed in the UK in the 1930s. They are a cross between Leghorns, Barred Plymouth Rocks, and Araucanas.
• Characteristics: Cream Legbars are known for their auto-sexing trait, which means you can tell males from females at hatching. They are friendly and lay beautiful blue eggs.

Benefits of Blue Eggs

Blue eggs offer several benefits:

• Nutritional Value: Blue eggs have similar nutritional value to white and brown eggs. They are rich in protein and essential vitamins.
• Unique Appearance: The blue color makes these eggs stand out. They are often considered more appealing and can fetch a higher price.
• Market Demand: There is a growing demand for blue eggs in the market. People love their unique look and are willing to pay more for them.

How to Care for Chickens That Lay Blue Eggs

Feeding Requirements

• Types of Feed: Provide a balanced diet with layer feed. Ensure they have access to grit and calcium supplements.
• Supplements: Add oyster shells for extra calcium to ensure strong eggshells.

Housing Needs

• Coop Specifications: Make sure the coop is spacious and well-ventilated. Chickens need enough space to move around.
• Nesting Boxes: Provide enough nesting boxes to reduce stress and increase egg production.

Health and Wellness

• Common Health Issues: Watch out for mites, lice, and other pests. Keep the coop clean to prevent diseases.
• Vaccinations: Ensure your chickens are vaccinated against common diseases like Marek’s disease.

Common Myths About Blue Eggs

01 – Myth: Blue Eggs Taste Different

• Explanation: The taste of an egg is more about the chicken’s diet than the color of the eggshell. Blue eggs taste the same as white or brown eggs if the chickens are fed the same diet.

02 – Myth: Blue Eggs Have More Nutrients

• Explanation: Blue eggs have the same nutritional content as other eggs. The color does not affect the nutrients inside.

03 – Myth: Only Certain Breeds Can Lay Blue Eggs

• Explanation: While only specific breeds carry the blue egg gene, many hybrid chickens can also lay blue eggs if they inherit the gene.

Where to Buy Chickens That Lay Blue Eggs

If you’re looking to buy chickens that lay blue eggs, there are a few options available to you. These chickens can be a great addition to your flock, adding variety to your egg basket and potentially increasing your egg sales. Let’s explore where you can find these unique chickens.

Online Sources

One of the easiest ways to find chickens that lay blue eggs is to buy them online. Many hatcheries specialize in rare breeds and offer shipping right to your door. Here are some popular online sources:

• Murray McMurray Hatchery: This hatchery offers a variety of blue egg layers, including Ameraucana and Easter Eggers. You can order chicks or even hatching eggs.
• My Pet Chicken: Another reliable source, My Pet Chicken, provides detailed descriptions of each breed, helping you choose the right chickens for your needs.
• Cackle Hatchery: Known for their wide selection of poultry, Cackle Hatchery offers blue egg layers like the Cream Legbar. They provide excellent customer service and shipping options.

Local Farms

Buying from local farms can also be a good choice. It allows you to see the chickens before purchasing and ensures they are healthy and well-cared for. Here are some tips for finding local farms:

• Visit Farmers Markets: Many local farmers sell their chickens at farmers markets. This is a great place to meet breeders and ask questions about the chickens.
• Check Local Classifieds: Websites like Craigslist often have listings for chickens. Look for reputable sellers with good reviews.
• Join Local Poultry Groups: There are many online and in-person groups where chicken keepers share information. Joining these groups can help you find local breeders who sell blue egg layers.

Tips for Choosing the Right Source

When buying chickens that lay blue eggs, consider these tips:

• Reputation: Choose a source with positive reviews and a good reputation for healthy, well-bred chickens.
• Breed Information: Make sure the seller provides detailed information about the breeds and their care.
• Health Guarantees: Look for sellers that offer health guarantees or replacements if the chicks do not survive the first few days.

Visual Guide: Online vs. Local Sources

Here’s a simple comparison between buying online and from local farms:

Buying chickens that lay blue eggs can be a rewarding experience. Whether you choose to buy online or from a local farm, you’ll enjoy the unique and colorful addition to your egg collection. Happy chicken shopping!

Final Thoughts: What Chicken Lays Blue Eggs

In this guide, we’ve explored the fascinating world of blue eggs. You’ve learned about the types of chickens that lay blue eggs, their benefits, and how to care for them. Whether you’re a seasoned poultry farmer or a beginner, adding blue egg layers to your flock can be a rewarding experience.

FAQ Section

This guide should provide you with all the information you need to know about chickens that lay blue eggs. Happy chicken keeping!