Buff Orpington or Australorp, which is better for you?

These two are closely related. The Australorp was developed in Australia from Orpington stock, with a focus on egg laying. The Buff Orpington stayed closer to the original English type, heavy and very fluffy. So the comparison is really about which direction you want, more eggs and a sleeker bird, or more fluff and a softer, broodier hen.

Goal by goal

• Eggs. The Australorp usually lays more. It is known as one of the better heritage layers.
• Temperament. Both are calm. Buff Orpingtons are famously cuddly. Australorps are gentle but a little more reserved.
• Kids. Both are great. The Buff Orpington's patience makes it a classic kids' chicken.
• Cold. Both handle cold well. Both have single combs, so keep the coop dry.
• Heat. Both need shade. Black Australorps absorb more sun, and fluffy Orpingtons hold more heat, so neither is ideal in extreme heat.
• Meat. Buff Orpingtons are heavier and a better table bird.
• Noise. Both are fairly quiet.

Keeping both in one flock

This is one of the easiest pairings there is. They share a similar size and mellow nature, so fights are rare. The golden and black feathers make it easy to tell them apart. Both may go broody, Orpingtons more often, so have an extra nest box ready in spring. They also mix well with most other calm breeds.

Deciding factors

Egg priority. If eggs are your main reason for keeping chickens, the Australorp is the better choice.

Broodiness. Buff Orpingtons go broody more often. That is good news if you want hens to hatch chicks and bad news if you want steady eggs.

Climate. In a hot, sunny yard, the difference is small but real. Give either breed shade, but watch the black Australorp more closely on the hottest days.

Feather care. Buff feathers fade in strong sun and can look a little washed out by late summer. Black Australorp feathers hold their shine. It does not affect health, only looks.

Looks. Some people simply love the golden fluff of a Buff. Others prefer the beetle green shine of an Australorp in the sun.

Still deciding? The beginner breeds guide covers both in more detail.

Common questions about Buff Orpingtons vs Australorps

Are Australorps and Orpingtons related?

Yes. Australorps were developed from Orpingtons in Australia, bred for laying.

Which is friendlier, Buff Orpington or Australorp?

Both are friendly. Buff Orpingtons are often seen as the more cuddly of the two.

Do Australorps go broody?

Some do, but usually less often than Buff Orpingtons.