Chicken Breed History:
The Red Star is a hybrid breed of chicken that, while not a breed recognized by the American Poultry Association, they are a well-known and well-loved breed among farmers and owners with smaller flocks alike. They are a sex-linked breed, meaning that males and females are different colors and can easily be identified from each other at hatching. However, the sex-linked colors do not hold true in second generation Red Stars and the genders cannot be sorted from each other accurately. Females are red at birth and mature to reddish-brown flecked with white feathers. Males are white or light yellow at hatch and mature to white flecked with red, buff, and brown. A red male chicken (for example a Rhode Island Red or a New Hampshire Red) is crossed with a white female (often a Leghorn or a Delaware). Many different crosses are possible to create Red Star chickens, and each farm or hatchery will have its own preferred breeding cross.
Chicken Breed Profile:
Red Star chickens are friendly and docile, and people often comment with surprise that this holds true for the roosters as well. Adult females usually weigh 5-6 lbs, while adult males will weigh 7-8 lbs. They are a good breed for people with small yards who want just enough eggs to feed their families. They are also an excellent choice for large production flocks, as the hens begin to lay eggs at 22 weeks old, earlier than many other chickens. They produce consistent quantities of eggs, and are a hardy bird that will continue to lay even in hot and cold temperatures. They produce large, brown eggs that are delicious.
Mountain Valley View Farm sells fresh, organic eggs that are laid by our flock of Red Star hens. Please click here or call 509-928-1800 for more information.
