Breed Profiles

The Australian Langshan is an extremely popular bird, developed to suit Australian conditions and demands. This breed has strong genetics, many colour variations and favourable dispositions, making it a frequently appearing bread on show circuits around the country. While both varieties are loved by poultry enthusiasts for their economical laying and affectionate nature, Australian Langshan bantams are particularly well regarded as exceptional family-friendly backyard birds due to their smaller size.

Due to their friendly nature, great laying ability and adaptations to Australian demands and climate, Australorps are fantastic additions to any backyard poultry set-up. They are prolific egg producers, easy to house, and fantastic birds for young families. For these reasons, Poultry Australia would not hesitate to recommend this fantastic breed!

Barnevelders are great dual-purpose birds that have gained popularity as backyard chickens. Their beautiful appearance, ability to produce golden-speckled brown eggs year-round and calm nature make them a great addition to family life.

Brahmas are a great all-round bird. Their large size and fluffy plumage make them great birds for eating and showing. While they are only moderate egg layers, they still lay during the winter months when other breeds have stopped laying. Brahmas are also great family members, both to their chicks and owners.

Easter Eggers are an extremely popular and fantastic addition to backyard flocks. Their colourful and extra-large eggs are sure to spark joy in the eyes of all family members – young and old. In addition to their wonderful eggs, their moderate size, calm nature and hardiness make them wonderful members of a family-friendly backyard flock!

ISA Browns are a favourite for individuals and families who are new to caring for poultry. These moderately sized birds are known to produce prolific amounts of eggs year-round. Furthermore, they are affectionate in nature and require relatively low maintenance.

Leghorns are a great egg-producing breed that is highly economical – providing you with lots of eggs for a relatively small cost. These birds are highly active and independent creatures that aren’t fond of handling. As a result, if you are looking for a moderately sized bird that will be a great family companion, Leghorns probably aren’t for you. However, their moderate size and highly economical and plentiful egg-laying make them a winning breed if you’re aim is to put eggs on the table!

Marans are best known for their unique and beautiful eggs, which are large in size and a rich, chocolate colour. However, being originally developed for meat production, these birds are wonderful table birds. With many colour variations of both standard and bantam varieties, there is sure to be a variety of Maran to suit any backyard flock!

The New Hampshire breed is an excellent addition to a flock if you’re looking for a dual-purpose bird with an emphasis on meat production. They’re also great for new and experienced poultry keepers alike due to their affable demeanour and relatively low requirements for maintenance.

Old English Game Fowl are not birds for families or individuals with limited experience keeping poultry. Their aggressive tendencies and relatively poor egg production often deter people from this breed. However, this breed is highly regarded and appreciated amongst poultry enthusiasts who wish to own birds for moderate meat production, ornamental/show purposes, or to maintain the bloodline of this historic breed.

Orpingtons are known for their fantastic characteristics as show birds, with their thick plumage coming in various colours. When not on show, Orpingtons are an excellent breed for family backyards due to their docile and friendly nature. Furthermore, Orpingtons are great table birds while still producing a decent amount of eggs - making them a true dual-purpose breed!

Pekin bantams are highly regarded as fantastic backyard birds for young families in urban environments due to their small size and calm, docile temperament. If you’re after a breed that is exceptionally well suited to smaller backyards, being handled by children, and you aren’t concerned with egg or meat production, Pekin bantams are the breed for you!

Plymouth Rocks are outstanding dual-purpose birds that are also friendly and great for families. They are relatively large in size, come in many different varieties, produce eggs year-round and get along wonderfully with human and non-human family members. So long as they have a bit of shade and shelter in warmer climates and some careful dietary considerations, Plymouth Rocks will flourish in any backyard poultry or smallholding environment.

The Rhode Island Red could be for you if you are looking for a great all-purpose breed suitable for all Australian climates. They are amazing layers of extra-large eggs and are also good birds to raise for meat. However, if you have small children, avoiding Rhode Island Red roosters is best, as they can be quite protective and territorial.

Silkies are a fan favourite breed, especially for families due to their small stature, unique appearance and affable nature. These birds stand out from other breeds with their fluffy, silky feathers. Their love of handling and small size make Silkies a fantastic breed for young families with small, urban backyards. If you are after a breed to make an ideal family pet, rather than to provide eggs and meat, then you should definitely strongly consider Silkies.

Sussex chickens are a great utility bird, performing exceptionally in terms of meat, egg production and economy. They also have a wonderful character, with a curious, active and friendly demeanour – making them a great choice for families. Due to their large size, these birds require a bit of extra space compared to other dual-purpose breeds. However, if you have the room, you won’t be disappointed with this wonderful breed.

Wyandottes are a wonderful moderately sized dual-purpose breed that is packed with personality. They are reliable layers throughout the year, and despite sometimes showing their slightly bossy nature, they can be good birds around children. Their thick plumage makes Wyandottes a great breed for cold climates, and their strong maternal instincts make them great mothers.