The New Hampshire Red chicken was developed using the Rhode Island Red as a basis. In 1915 farmers from Rhode Island and Southern Massachusetts brought these birds to Hew Hampshire and began using selective breeding to develop a bird that matured fast, was quick to feather, had rapid growth, and was hardy. This was a very gradual process and the result was a chicken that is excellent for meat. The New Hampshire Red was admitted into the American Standard of Perfection in 1935.
If you are looking for a popular straight run bird then the New Hampshire Red is the chicken for you. They are known to lay anywhere from 200-280 eggs per year. The characteristic of being a reliable layer along with their rapid grown makes them an excellent dual-purpose breed. This chicken would be an excellent choice for the local mom and pop restaurant who would like to provide their patrons with fresh meat and eggs.
The New Hampshire Reds are a cold hardy breed. The hens are known to get broody and make excellent mothers. This chicken is friendly but can also be competitive as well. Make sure you have enough hens for each rooster. The New Hampshire Red chicken loves to free range but they can also be confined as well.
Egg Color | Brown | Hardiness | Heat & Cold |
Egg Size | Large | Broody | Yes |
Egg Production | Very Good | Hen Weight | 6 1/2 lbs |
Personality | Calm | Rooster Weight | 8 1/2 lbs |
Live Chick Guarantee
We guarantee your ordered number of birds arrive healthy and true to breed. Please contact us immediately should any losses or variances to your order occur, this guarantee is only for the safe and live delivery of your poultry. Any loss must be reported to Chickens for Backyards within 3 days of receipt for any adjustment to be made. Reshipments are subject to availability and minimum shipping requirements. If eligible, we will reship only once. Reimbursements are limited to the cost of the birds and will not include shipping charges.
Click here to learn more about shipping baby chicks and Marek’s vaccination
Jack Simpson –
Fifteen Replacements for the Flock
I ordered 15 New Hampshire Red day-old pullets to replace losses to predators (Life in West Texas). On the appointed day 16 happy, healthy future layers arrived. All thrived in the brooder and after integration into the yard they are all still thriving. Folks, this is the place to get your chicks.
Joel Blackburn –
Rosie
One of our chickens is the New Hampshire Red, her name is Rosie. She is larger in size then our other chickens. Our chickens are fun to watch as they search for bugs and things to eat. They get along well with dogs and cats, usually by avoiding them. They don’t mind being picked up and carried around; they get along well with children. They especially like eating pecans. We got chickens because we thought they would be an interesting pet, but they do so much more than just laying eggs.