As promised, I wanted to introduce you to our now "grown-up" girls that were day-old-hatchlings this spring. I waited to do this until these ladies were integrated into the existing flock and started laying eggs. This way, I've got a complete idea of their breed characteristics.
First up, we've got two brown leghorns, Minerva and Hermione. Since we already had two white leghorns in our flock, it's been interesting to see the differences between the two breeds. For one, the brown leghorns are much bigger than the white leghorns. As an example, I can hold the white leghorns upside-down in one hand (they are definitely amiable chickens). I can't do this with the brown leghorns; they're too big. The white leghorns started laying early and often. The brown leghorns started laying a little later and are not as prolific. Both lay white eggs.
It's also interesting to see the similarities between the two breeds. (The white leghorns are a commercial breed, and the brown leghorns are a heritage breed. They are related.) They've both got huge, floppy combs that make them look comical. Both breeds are known for being active and skittish. Ours are no different. But, I would also add inquisitive and friendly. Both breeds love to fly if you don't clip their wings. Ours can often be found grazing somewhere outside of their fenced yard.
Overall, I love leghorns and will not hesitate to get more in the future. I think they are a terrific addition to any home flock. Our brown leghorns are beautiful!
