Barnevelder

The Barnevelder is a captivating and unique chicken breed known for its striking plumage and distinct appearance. Originating in the Netherlands, Barnevelders are a relatively rare and ancient breed with a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. These chickens are best known for their beautifully patterned feathers, often described as “double-laced,” and their calm and friendly temperament. While not as widely known as some other breeds, the Barnevelder is cherished for its beauty, adaptability, and ability to lay eggs in varying colors, making it an appealing choice for poultry enthusiasts and those looking to add an unusual and elegant breed to their flocks.

History and Origins

The Barnevelder breed originated in the town of Barneveld in the Netherlands, from which it takes its name. Historical records indicate that the breed was first developed in the early 1800s, likely through the crossing of native Dutch chickens with imported Asian breeds, such as the Black Sumatra, as well as possibly the Hamburg and the Malay. The goal of these early breeders was to create a bird that could be both a productive egg layer and have striking plumage.

The Barnevelder’s distinctive double-laced feather pattern became a hallmark of the breed, which set it apart from many other chicken breeds. While the breed has faced some challenges over the years in terms of maintaining its population, the Barnevelder continues to be admired for its beauty and adaptability.

The breed was officially recognized by the American Poultry Association (APA) in 1991, although it was already known in Europe and parts of the world long before then. Despite its relative rarity, the Barnevelder still has a dedicated following among poultry fanciers, who appreciate both its ornamental value and its unique characteristics.

Appearance and Characteristics

One of the most striking features of the Barnevelder is its double-laced plumage, a unique feather pattern where each feather is edged with a contrasting color, creating a lacy or “tartan” effect. This intricate pattern is particularly evident on the body and wings, with a dark base color, usually black, and a contrasting lighter edge, often a copper, gold, or silver tone, depending on the variety. The double-lacing gives the bird a stunning appearance, making it a highly sought-after breed for ornamental purposes.

Barnevelders have a medium build, with hens weighing around 4-5 pounds (1.8-2.3 kg) and roosters weighing around 5-6 pounds (2.3-2.7 kg). They have a slender, elegant body shape, with a moderately long neck and a graceful, upright posture. Their comb is typically a single comb, though some variations may have other comb types, such as a rose comb, depending on regional standards. The breed’s legs are relatively long and sturdy, and they come in a variety of colors, including black, gold, and silver.

Barnevelder chickens have distinctive white or light-colored earlobes, which contrast with the darker tones of their plumage. Their eyes are generally orange to reddish in color, giving them a striking, alert look. While their appearance is primarily valued for its beauty, the Barnevelder’s physical attributes also contribute to its resilience and adaptability.

Temperament and Behavior

Barnevelders are generally calm, docile, and friendly birds, which makes them a good choice for families and individuals who enjoy interacting with their chickens. They are not particularly aggressive and typically get along well with other chickens, even in mixed flocks. Their gentle nature allows them to peacefully coexist with a variety of other breeds, making them a good addition to larger flocks.

Although Barnevelders are relatively quiet compared to some other breeds, they are not shy and will often explore their environment, especially if they have access to a secure free-range area. Their inquisitive and intelligent nature makes them excellent foragers, and they will enjoy rooting around for insects, seeds, and other food sources if allowed to roam.

While they are friendly and calm, Barnevelders are not overly social with humans compared to some other breeds. They tend to be a little more independent and may not seek out human interaction as frequently. However, with regular handling and attention, they can become accustomed to human presence and can be easy to manage.

Egg Production and Quality

The Barnevelder is primarily valued for its ornamental qualities, but it is also a fairly reliable egg layer, although not as prolific as some other breeds. Barnevelders typically lay medium-sized eggs, which can range in color from light brown to a pale cream or even tinted, depending on the individual bird. While they do not lay as frequently as some commercial breeds, they will generally produce around 150-180 eggs per year. The eggs are known for their high quality, with rich yolks and smooth, firm whites, which many people find desirable.

Egg production tends to be seasonal, with the hens laying more eggs in the warmer months and reducing egg production during the colder winter months. However, they are generally consistent layers and can still be relied upon for eggs throughout the year, particularly if they are kept in favorable conditions.

While the Barnevelder’s egg production is not as high as that of some other breeds, their striking appearance and other desirable traits, such as their friendly demeanor and ability to forage effectively, make them a worthwhile addition to any backyard flock.

Care and Maintenance

Barnevelders are relatively low-maintenance chickens, though their beauty and unique feathering do require some attention to ensure they remain in top condition. They have a hardy constitution and can tolerate a range of climates, but they do require proper shelter to protect them from extreme weather conditions. Like all chickens, they need a secure, predator-proof coop to keep them safe at night.

In terms of diet, Barnevelders do well on a balanced poultry feed supplemented with occasional kitchen scraps and access to free-ranging if possible. They are excellent foragers, so providing them with an area to roam where they can find insects, plants, and other natural food sources will help keep them healthy and satisfied. Barnevelders are also known to be relatively hardy birds, which makes them adaptable to various living conditions, whether free-ranging or housed in a coop.

The breed is not particularly prone to health issues, but like all chickens, they can be susceptible to common poultry diseases, so regular health checks and good biosecurity practices are important. Providing them with clean water, proper nutrition, and adequate shelter will help keep them healthy and productive.

Conclusion

The Barnevelder is a unique and beautiful breed that stands out for its striking double-laced plumage, calm temperament, and adaptability. While not as prolific in egg production as some other breeds, the Barnevelder’s beauty, friendly nature, and ability to forage effectively make it a valuable addition to any backyard flock or ornamental poultry collection. Its fascinating appearance, combined with its hardy constitution and good-natured behavior, ensures that the Barnevelder remains a beloved choice for poultry enthusiasts and fanciers around the world.

Whether you’re looking for a visually stunning bird, an easygoing companion for other chickens, or a unique layer for your egg collection, the Barnevelder is an excellent choice. Its rare and elegant beauty, combined with its calm and adaptable nature, makes it a delightful and rewarding breed to raise.