Information on the Minorka chicken breed

Large ears

General information about the Minorka

The Minorka originated in Spain and found its way to Germany via England around 1870. They belong to the laying breeds and are very closely related to Spaniards, Andalusians and Castilians. They also paved the way for many other breeds, such as: Saxony hen, Orpington, German Imperial hen, German Sparrowhawk…. Unfortunately, they are becoming increasingly rare and have therefore been added to the Red List of endangered livestock breeds.

Appearance of Minorkas

An important feature are the ear discs, which should be about 2/3 of the length of the wattles. They are smooth, delicate, thick in texture, pure white, oval in shape and tight-fitting. They are available with a single comb or a rose comb, which is beautifully red in both cases. The wattles are also red. The white color has flesh-colored legs and beaks, in the black ones both are rather slate gray. Minorka cockerels weigh up to 3.5 kg.

Existing dwarf form

Yes, Dwarf Minorka

Color strokes of Minorkas

black
white

Keeping Minorkas

As Minorkas have a very large comb, the hutch must always be dry. Otherwise it could possibly lead to chamber freezing. Otherwise, however, they are not demanding. They are very robust and flying is not their thing.

Character of Minorkas

Minorkas can become very tame with a little patience. They are very calm and not lively. A very interesting breed. However, they no longer have a breeding instinct.

Eggs from Minorca hens

Minorka hens lay approx. 170, 65g eggs with a white shell in their first year. The laying performance decreases in the second year to approx. 130 eggs, but they become heavier – approx. 70g.