Information on the Jersey Giant chicken breed

Good-natured giants

General information about the Jersey Giant

The Jersey Giant is the heaviest chicken breed in the world. They were bred in 1880 in the US state of New Jersey from Brahmas, Javas and Croad Langschans and are meat chickens. Jerseys were bred to replace turkeys as a source of meat. Early castrated Jersey cockerels, so-called capons, are said to weigh up to 9 kg. Unfortunately, the young animals grow up very slowly, which made them unprofitable for the industry in the long term.

Appearance of Jersey Giants

These very heavy chickens have a relatively small head in relation to their body, which is adorned with a medium-sized single comb . The ear discs, wattles and face are bright red, the eyes brown, the beak black with a yellow tip. Black Jerseys have dense, deep black plumage with a slight greenish sheen. The black legs of dark Jerseys can also have a greenish sheen, while those of light-colored birds tend to be dark green. Purebred animals can be easily recognized by their yellow soles. Roosters of this breed have the same coloration as the hens and can weigh up to 5.5 kg.

Existing dwarf form

Yes (but only in the USA)

Color strokes from Jersey Giants

black
white
blue lined

Attitude of Jersey Giants

Jersey Giant chickens are not very demanding and are rather robust. They also cope well with cold winters. Due to their enormous weight, they are very poor fliers, hopping and flapping if at all. A fence just one meter high is enough to keep these quiet giants in check. However, they should be given a little more space in the run and in the hutch than normal-sized breeds. More space should also be allowed on the perch and in the laying nest. Both should be lower so that the animals have an easier time.

Character of Jersey Giants

Jerseys are calm animals that are also very friendly towards other animals and can be tamed with a little effort. It takes a lot for these giants to get upset and possibly peck at a conspecific. Due to their enormous weight, they are not suitable for small children. The hens often get into a brooding mood and are devoted mothers who guide their chicks well.

Eggs from Jersey Giant hens

Jersey hens lay a relatively large number of eggs for a meat breed. Approx. 180 per year with a weight of up to 78g – but the rule is approx. 65g. The eggshell is cream-colored.