California Grey
California Grey hens are prolific egg layers with a calm demeanor.
Is the California Grey right for you? Take the Breed Matcher →About the California Grey
The California Grey is a medium-sized breed known for its striking silver-grey plumage and pale yellow skin. They have a calm and friendly temperament, making them excellent for backyard flocks. Their active foraging behavior allows them to thrive in various environments. This breed is also recognized for its high egg production, often laying numerous white eggs.
History
The California Grey was developed in the mid-20th century in California, primarily from crosses between the White Leghorn and other breeds. This breed was created to meet the rising demand for efficient egg layers in the commercial egg industry and was eventually recognized for its qualities in residential settings as well.
Care tips
California Greys are known for their adaptability and do well in both free-range and confined settings. They thrive when given sufficient space to forage and are relatively hardy in various climates. Regular health checks and a balanced diet enhance their egg production and overall well-being. Although generally calm, they can be active and need room to engage in their natural behaviors.
Fun facts
- California Greys can lay up to 280 white eggs per year.
- They are a cross of White Leghorns and other breeds, ideal for egg production.
- These chickens typically weigh around 5-6 pounds when fully grown.
- Their calm nature makes them great companions for families and beginners.
What the California Grey is like
The California Grey was developed in California in the 1930s by poultry breeder Horace Dryden. It came from crossing Barred Plymouth Rocks with White Leghorns. The goal was a bird that lays white eggs well but has more body than a Leghorn. The result is a barred, medium-sized bird with a single comb that lays white eggs.
California Greys are rarely seen today, but they have a loyal following among keepers who want a calm white egg layer.
What to expect day to day
- Barred gray and white feathers, similar to a Barred Rock but often lighter in build.
- White eggs in good numbers for a backyard bird.
- Many keepers describe them as calmer than typical Leghorns.
- Usually not very broody.
Some hatcheries and breeders have used California Greys as a parent in crosses, including with White Leghorns, to make white laying birds.
Space and climate
Treat them as a medium large fowl. They fit standard coop space and do well in a run or free ranging. Their single comb can get frostbite in cold climates, so keep the coop dry. They handle heat reasonably well with shade.
Compared with its parents
A Leghorn lays more but is lighter and more nervous. A Plymouth Rock is heavier and calmer, but lays brown eggs. The California Grey sits between them.
Who they suit
They suit keepers who want white eggs and a calmer bird than a Leghorn, and anyone interested in American breeds with a clear history.
Where to find them
California Greys are uncommon. A small number of hatcheries and breeders keep them.
Common questions about California Greys
What color eggs do California Greys lay?
White eggs.
Are California Greys good layers?
Yes, they are known as good layers of white eggs.
Is the California Grey a Barred Rock?
No. It was developed from Barred Rocks and White Leghorns, but it is its own bird.
