Plymouth Rock

One of the classic utility breeds, Plymouth Rocks are large striking birds. Typical of the American breeds, Plymouth Rocks have yellow legs, feet and skin. The most commonly found colours in Australia are the Dark Barred and Light Barred, with a few Columbians and other colours sometimes seen at specialist shows. The bantams are quite popular and are of good quality. Plymouth Rocks do quite well on the showbench, however the complexity and fineness of their markings often goes against them in tight competition. They are a hardy breed, which lays well, but some strains do tend to be rather slow growing.

Rhode Islands

Along with the Australorp, probably no other breed has made such an impact around the world, like the Rhode Island. They are truly a classic utility breed and a magnificent show fowl. The most common variety found here is the Red, however the Whites can be found in some areas in both good numbers and quality.
Rhode Islands are square looking birds, with proportions based on the dimensions of house bricks. This rectangular shape allows for a heavy muscled frame. The reds have beautiful, rich red plumage with particular black markings on tail and wings. Like most American breeds, they have yellow skin and legs. In Australia, both large and bantams are commonly shown.

Wyandotte

Wyandottes are a large utility breed. Originally bred in silver-laced, nowadays many colours are available. They are very popular in Australia and always feature strongly on the showbench. They should be as round as possble in shape, with the tail carried at 35 degrees. They have a peculiar "helmet" rose comb, which closely follows the shape of the skull. Again, they carry yellow legs and skin, like most American breeds. In Australia, the whites are very strong, particularly in bantams, these often winning major awards in shows. The laced varieties are becoming very popular in large fowls and many off-colours are also found in both large and bantams.

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