Birchen Standard Old English
Birchen Standard Old English is prized for its striking black and white plumage and spirited demeanor.
Is the Birchen Standard Old English right for you? Take the Breed Matcher →About the Birchen Standard Old English
The Birchen Standard Old English features distinctive black and white feathering that mimics a birch tree’s pattern. These birds are known for their lively and active temperament, making them engaging pets. They possess a unique upright posture and have a confident demeanor, showcasing their heritage as game birds.
History
This variety of the Old English breed has roots that can be traced back to England, where it was developed for both beauty and competition. The breed gained popularity in the 19th century and has remained a favorite among poultry enthusiasts for its striking appearance.
Care tips
Birchen Standard Old English chickens thrive in social settings and should be kept in flocks. They require adequate space to roam and explore, as their active nature can lead to boredom if cooped up. Regular health checks and a balanced diet contribute to their well-being.
Fun facts
- The birchen coloration is unique among Old English breeds.
- These birds are often used in poultry exhibitions due to their beauty.
- They can be quite vocal, making them entertaining companions.
- Birchen Old English birds are known for their agility and speed.
What sets the Birchen color apart
Birchen is one of the darker Old English colors, and it is easy to spot once you know what to look for. On a Birchen rooster, the hackle and saddle feathers are silvery white with black striping, and the black breast carries narrow silver edging toward the top. Hens are mostly black with silver lacing around the neck. Birchens usually have dark faces and dark eyes.
If you have seen a Brown Red, a Birchen is close to its silver counterpart. Where a Black Breasted Brown Red shows lemon or orange in the hackle, the Birchen shows silver.
How it relates to the Old English Game
"Standard Old English" is the name many hatcheries use for large fowl Old English Game, as opposed to the more common bantams. The color does not change the bird underneath. A Birchen behaves, lays and needs care exactly like any other Old English Game.
- Hardy, active and an excellent forager.
- Small, cream to tinted eggs in modest numbers.
- Hens go broody readily and are protective mothers.
- Good fliers, so expect them to roost high or clear low fences.
Keeping Birchens in a backyard flock
The game background matters more than the color. Roosters of this breed will fight other roosters, sometimes seriously, so most keepers run one male per group. Their tight feathering sheds rain well but insulates less than fluffy breeds, so give them a dry, draft-free coop in winter. Single combs can get frostbite in hard freezes.
Birchens are less common than red-based colors. Look to game breeders at shows and hatcheries with large fowl Old English.
Common questions about Birchen Old English
Is Birchen the same as Brown Red?
No. They are related patterns, but Birchen uses silver where Brown Red uses lemon or gold.
Do Birchen Old English hens lay well?
They lay a modest number of small eggs and spend a lot of time broody.
Can I keep two Birchen roosters together?
It is risky. Males often fight, so one per flock is safer.
