Thursday, July 24, 2014

Finding Silver Gray Dorking Chickens For Sale

By Sharron Cantu


One of the most ancient five toed birds in history is reputed to have arrived in England with the Romans around forty AD. Many people disagree with this bit of history by pointing out that this bird is nowhere to be found in Italy. How they arrived is not as important as their history once in England. This breed was specially cultivated for its excellent table value and the flavor of its meat. Now, you can find silver gray Dorking chickens for sale in most countries around the world.

The Dorking breed is one of the oldest breeds of chicken in the world. At one point in their history it is said that England was the only production center for them and owners were prohibited from selling live birds outside the area as a means of controlling their lines and distribution of the breed.

The attributes of these birds include their large size of up to nine pounds for a rooster or seven for the hens. They have short sturdy legs and large thighs which make them desirable for the table. The wings and breasts are large and meaty with excellent flavor that is tender and delicate.

Their silver and black colors make them a beautiful bird to show. They are gentle and while they will forage they usually stay close to home. The do very well in pasture settings and with small farmers or gentleman farmers who raise them for personal use. Given the opportunity they like to roost in trees at night.

The hens of this breed are exceptional mothers. They are known to lay a large clutch of eggs and brood them each year if not watched. They will also raise the chicks from other hens if given the chance. They will be consistently good laying hens throughout the year even in the winter. The pullets are less reliable about laying eggs in colder months. Both hens and roosters have the black and silver feathers although hens are less showy than the roosters.

The number of breeding chickens in this type of bird is very low. At under six thousand birds they are considered a rare or threatened bird. In order for them to regain a healthy population in this country new ranches for breeding are constantly being sought. Anyone who would like to raise a few of them can purchase day old chicks, fertilized eggs, pullets or mature birds from ranches that offer them for sale. In addition to eggs and meat they make beautiful and effective show birds.

If purchasing dressed birds for the table you may want to purchase them in multiple numbers and freeze them for future use. Freezing them preserves the original flavor and texture of your meat. An online search may help you to find distributors in your area but many ranchers will ship the birds to you frozen if you choose.

Many people desire these birds for their elegant looks and docile natures. They may keep them as pets or for show. Others enjoy the egg laying capacity of the hens and use them for keeping themselves and their friends supplied with eggs. Still others enjoy the delectable taste of this bird. Regardless of what your reasons may be for purchasing these birds you are able to purchase them from fertilized eggs all the way up to fully mature adults to meet those needs.




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