Euskal Oiloa "Marraduna" Type
Our first and most favorite of our heritage chicken breeds are the Euskal Oiloa. We obtained our first birds from Hackmatack Ridge Farm in the Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia, with lines from Skeffling Lavender Farm in Ontario. These amazingly friendly and comical birds quickly became our family favorites for their charm, personality, and beautiful coloration.
The Marraduna variety rooster is distinguished by its barred plumage, upright carriage and large bright red comb and wattles. The hens are buff colored with barred markings. Bright yellow legs are a trait of both sexes. |
The breed is very new to Canada, only having been present in small numbers for a few years. They are mostly kept by a small group of enthusiasts who are trying to promote knowledge and appreciation of the breed as excellent dual-purpose backyard fowl. As far as can be determined all Euskal Oiloa in Canada are descended from a small group imported several years ago.
These beauties will lay upwards of 220 eggs a year, which puts them right in line with many other heritage layers as prolific producers of large light brown eggs. At Riverbend Farm we will be selecting for breed standard to improve and promote the stock in Nova Scotia. Our lines are a work in progress, and like most EO flocks still show a good deal of variation in traits. UPDATE January 2014: We have begun to hatch for 2014! This spring we will have chicks for sale on a weekly basis. To reserve your babies email us now! We guarantee that you will not be dissappointed with these fantastic birds! |
Information and Links on Euskal Oiloa or Basques Hens:
Are you an enthusiast?:
Join the Euskal Oiloa Forum here:
http://forums.euskaloiloas.com |