Breed Name
Plymouth Rock
Size and Appearance
Plymouth Rocks are large, heavy birds, weighing about 7 to 8 pounds. They are single-comb and do not have feathered legs. They have four toes and are not crested. Cocks have stripping or barring, of equal width, while hens have slightly wider dark bars than white bars, giving them a comparatively darker look.
Recognized Varieties
Recognized varieties include Barred, White Buff, Silver, Penciled, Partridge, Columbian, Blue, and Black. These varieties are typically called by their name followed by “Rock,” so a Barred Rock is actually a black-and-white Plymouth Rock chicken, and its entire proper breed name is Barred Plymouth Rock.
Rarity
Barred Rocks and White Rocks are common. All other varieties are rare, but online hatcheries may carry such varieties as Penciled, Partridge, and Silver Rocks.
Purpose
These are classic dual-purpose chickens, meaning they are suitable for both meat and eggs. They put on weight well for meat, and they are also good egg producers.
About the Breed
The Plymouth Rock chicken has a long history in the United States. Barred Plymouth Rocks were first shown at a poultry show in Boston in 1849. They have been nicknamed “America’s favorite breed” as well as “the Hereford of the poultry world.” Barred Rocks, as they’re often called, have long been a favorite breed of small family farms and for backyard and homestead operations. Plymouth Rocks are the most common variety, followed by White Rocks.
Temperament and Behavior
Plymouth Rocks have a docile, friendly nature and do well even when confined, although they will be happier if they can freely roam. They have also been described as smart, sweet, laid-back, good-natured, active, and plucky. As with all breeds, there is individual variation, and some chicken-keepers have said that Rock roosters can be bullies, even while the hens are sweet.
Climate Hardiness
These are winter-hardy birds; they will make it through the harshest of winters quite well. They might need extra cooling in warm climates.
Broodiness
They are good mothers, but not often broody. This is good if you want consistent egg-layers.
Egg Production and Type
The egg production of Plymouth Rocks is very good, at around four eggs per week. The eggs are typically brown and large. They lay eggs year-round.
This Breed May Be Right for You If
You are a homesteader or small-scale diversified farm, you have small children and want a friendly and docile breed, and/or you live somewhere with cold winters. If you want a basic, solid, backyard or small-farm dual-purpose breed for meat and eggs, Plymouth Rocks will serve you well.
