The Legbar chicken breed originated in the United Kingdom during the early 20th century. The Legbar is a rare British auto-sexing breed of chicken. It was created in the early twentieth century by Reginald Crundall Punnett and Michael Pease at the Genetical Institute of Cambridge University
The breed was developed by through selective breeding of various types, including the Brown Leghorn, barred rock , and other local breeds. like the araucana. The primary goal was to produce a reliable layer of blue eggs, leading to the breed's unique characteristics.The breed was
The Gold Legbar was the first to be standardised in 1945, the Cream Legbar in 1958. The opal color is not yet recognized as it is a very new variety.
The Legbar became popular among backyard chicken keepers and commercial producers alike due to its prolific laying ability and the unique blue eggs it produces. The Legbar's autosexing trait, which allows chicks to be sexed at hatching based on their feather patterns, was a significant advancement in poultry breeding. This feature made it particularly attractive to breeders, as it simplified the process of sexing chicks without the need for vent sexing.
In recent years, the Legbar has gained recognition beyond the UK, with interest growing in the United States and other countries. They are appreciated not only for their egg-laying capabilities but also for their aesthetic appeal and adaptability to different management systems, whether free-range or in confinement. The Legbar remains a symbol of innovative poultry breeding, combining productivity with unique traits, and continues to thrive in both small-scale and commercial settings worldwide.
Physical Characteristics
Size: Legbars are medium-sized birds, with hens typically weighing around 4-5 pounds and roosters slightly heavier at 5-6 pounds.
Body Type: They have a distinctive posture similar to leghorns.
Feathering: The plumage of Legbars is often characterized by a striking combination of colors. The farm breed cream, gold and opal in the same pen. This offers a good genetic mix of hues. and strengthen vibrance and vitality.
The Legbar is considered a rare breed by the Poultry Club of Great Britain and, until the Autosexing Breeds Association was re-formed, fell under the Rare Poultry Society.
Comb and Wattles: They have a single comb and bright red wattles, contributing to their overall vibrant appearance.
Egg Production
Egg Color: Legbar hens are known for laying beautiful blue eggs, a trait that has made them popular among poultry enthusiasts. Some lines may lay green. BBF lines all lay blue.
Egg Size: The eggs are medium to large in size, typically weighing around 55-65 grams (1.9-2.3 ounces). This as all breeds may depend on the age of the bird.
Production Rate: Legbars are good layers, producing approximately 180-250 eggs per year, making them a reliable choice for egg production.
Temperament
Personality: Legbar chickens are known for their friendly and curious nature. They are generally sociable and can adapt well to backyard settings.
Behavior: They are active foragers and enjoy exploring their environment. While they can be somewhat shy, they are not aggressive and often coexist peacefully with other breeds.
Hardiness
Legbar chickens are considered hardy birds that can adapt to a variety of climates. They are relatively disease-resistant when kept in good conditions and can thrive in both free-range and confined settings.
Breeding
The Legbar is an autosexing breed, meaning that chicks can be sexed at hatching based on their feathering patterns. This characteristic simplifies the process of determining the sex of the chicks, making it easier for breeders. They are often bred for both their egg production and their unique appearance, appealing to both commercial and backyard poultry keepers.
The Legbar chicken is a unique and attractive breed known for its reliable blue egg production and friendly temperament. Developed in the UK, this medium-sized bird boasts striking plumage and an autosexing trait that makes it popular among poultry enthusiasts. With good laying capabilities and adaptability to various environments, Legbars are an excellent choice for those looking to add both beauty and productivity to their flocks.
