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Buckeye chicken breed portrait

Illustration (AI rendered)

Buckeye

The only American breed developed entirely by a woman.

🐣 Beginner friendly❄ Cold hardy🪺 Goes broody
Egg color
brown
Eggs / year
200
Egg size
medium
Purpose
dual
Class
American
Size
large
Hen weight
6.5 lbs
Rooster weight
9 lbs
Temperament
active, friendly, mouse-hunting
Noise level
quiet
Origin
USA
Lifespan
7-10 yrs

About the Buckeye

Buckeyes are medium-sized birds with distinctive red feathers, a flat skull, and pea combs. They have a friendly, calm temperament, making them suitable for families and mixed flocks. Their dual-purpose nature allows them to provide both meat and eggs, and they are known for their good foraging ability.

History

The Buckeye breed was developed in the early 1900s in Ohio by Ada S. D. D. B. Wright. It is the only American breed created entirely by a woman and was recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1904. The breed gained popularity among backyard keepers for its hardiness and productivity.

Care tips

Buckeyes are hardy birds that thrive in various climates, making them great for colder regions. They tend to be broody, so providing suitable nesting boxes is essential. They appreciate space to roam and forage, so a secure backyard with adequate room is recommended.

Color varieties

mahogany

Fun facts

  • Buckeyes are known for their striking red plumage and unique pea comb structure.
  • The breed was named after the buckeye tree, prevalent in Ohio.
  • Buckeyes are good foragers, helping to keep pest populations down in your garden.
  • They adapt well to confinement but prefer to have plenty of outdoor space.
Reviewed by the ChickenCoops.ai Editorial Team
Content is written and reviewed by our team of backyard chicken keepers, veterinary technicians, and community moderators. Aggregate data pulls nightly from our own platform. Last reviewed July 13, 2026.