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Ancona Anconas originated from the Mediterranean region, most likely in Italy. They are similar to Leghorns, with some authorities believing them to be just another variety of that breed. They have black plumage with each feather tipped with a white V-shaped marking and with dark mottled spots on yellow legs. These markings are difficult to achieve with the leg markings a particular problem. They have the common Mediterranean head gear, large single comb and almond shaped white lobes. Anconas are good layers and do not go broody. They come in both large and bantam and with single or rose combs. They are a very flighty breed which require covered enclosures to prevent them flying out. |
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Andalusian Andalusians are spectacular looking fowls, with beautiful smoky blue plumage laced with black. This trait however, makes them difficult to breed true, with many chicks being black or a splashed white in colour. Crossing the black chicks with the white splashed chicks in theory will result in all the offspring having the exhibition blue colour. Distinctly Mediterranean in type, with large comb, wattles and white lobes, Andalusians lays large white eggs and do not go broody. They tend to be very flighty in manner. Andalusians look good in the show pen, however they seldom win major awards due to the complexity of their colour and markings. Being flighty means they require a covered run. |
Leghorn The Leghorn is one of the world's most useful breeds. Along with the Australorp, it is the progenitor of today's modern hybrid laying strains. Leghorns are hardy birds and being extremely active are well suited to free range. In confined spaces they tend to become aggressive toward each other as they are easily bored. Their laying ability is world renowned and Leghorns never go broody. They are wonderful show birds, however the large combs and wattles need plenty of attention to be kept in tiptop order. They come in both large and bantam. There are eleven standard colours in Leghorns, with a few non-standard colours occasionally seen. There are also rose-combed varieties, but these are rare. |
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Spanish Spanish fowls are now very rare in Australia. As the name suggests, they come from Spain and were very popular many years ago, as they laid large, white eggs in abundance. Sometimes called "clown-faced chickens" due to their unique white faces and sagging dewlaps, the Spanish should be large birds, with glossy black plumage, bright red head gear and a rather upright tail. They have the typical Mediterranean style comb. The most difficult thing with Spanish is actually finding them! Today, most strains are far too small physically, lacking proper facial structure and tail carriage due to cross-breeding with Minorcas. |
