The Barnevelder Chicken: Breed Overview

The Barnevelder is a popular Dutch dual-purpose breed known for its calm temperament, striking plumage, and consistent production of large, dark brown eggs.

Origin and History

• Location: Developed in the town and municipality of Barneveld, Gelderland, in the central Netherlands.
• Timeline: Breeding began around 1865. The name was first used at an agricultural exhibition in The Hague in 1911. A breeders' association formed in 1921, and the breed was officially recognized in 1923.
• Lineage: Created by crossing local Dutch farmyard chickens with "Shanghai" birds (Asian breeds like the Brahma, Cochin, and Croad Langshan).
• Langshan Influence: Contributed hardiness and brown egg traits. Possible additions include "American utility birds" (similar to Wyandottes), British Buff Orpington (c. 1906), and Indian Game stock (in UK lines).
• U.S. Recognition: The partridge variety was added to the American Poultry Association Standard of Perfection in 1991.

Physical Characteristics

• Build: Medium-sized birds with a broad, deep chest and clean yellow legs.
• Weight: Males (6 1/2 – 7 1/2 lbs); Females (5 1/2 – 6 lbs).
• Plumage & Varieties:
• Common: The "Golden Double-Laced" (brown-red feathers with a black double-laced pattern) is the most iconic variety.
• Recognized Colors: Varies by region (Netherlands, UK, or Europe) but includes double-laced, double-laced blue, black, white, silver double-laced, and partridge.
• Comb: Single comb; can be prone to frostbite in extreme cold.

Temperament and Hardiness

• Nature: Docile, sociable, and easy to manage; highly suited for backyards.
• Hardiness: Extremely cold-hardy (largely due to Langshan genetics) and adaptable to heat if provided with shade.
• System Suitability: Excellent for free-range systems as they are great foragers.

Utility and Production

• Purpose: Dual-purpose (meat and eggs) and exhibition.
• Egg Production: 170–220 eggs per year.
• Egg Quality: Large, brown eggs (60–65 g). While renowned for dark brown shells, shades can vary between breeding lines.
• Winter Laying: Notable for continuing to lay well through the winter months.
• Health Notes: Generally healthy, though some hens may exhibit broodiness.