The ISA Brown chicken is a hybrid breed developed for excellent egg production. Known for being prolific layers, these chickens are bred by crossing various breeds to create a bird that thrives in small farms and backyard setups. The “ISA” in ISA Brown stands for “Institut de Sélection Animale,” the company that first developed this breed. Although not recognized as a formal breed, the ISA Brown has gained widespread popularity for its dependability and ease of care.
History
ISA Brown was bred in France in the 1970s as breed development resulted from the efforts of Institut de Sélection Animale (ISA). This arose from crossbreeding between Rhode Island Reds and White Leghorns and was bred to lay eggs and do so efficiently. ISA Browns were introduced to the world in the 1980s, and these were reputed for the ability to produce more than 300 tasty brown eggs each year while being quite resistant. It saw a tremendous boost after it was purchased by Hendrix Genetics in 2005 and taken to the global market.
Characteristics
ISA Brown are normally sized birds that range in weight from 1.8kg up to about 2.25 kg for adults of the breeds. Their color is a warm reddish-brown with tiny specs of white feathers that blend well around the face area. Regardless, ISA Browns are mistaken for Rhode Island Reds because of their appearance; however, they have their characteristics.
Temperament and Behaviour
ISA Brown are friendly birds that do not struggle a lot when being handled. They are exploratory and seek out food toys to learn about their environment. This is because they need to be calm and quiet all the time so that they can effectively handle the stress that comes with the job. Also, they are manageable and can be reared in the backyard and commercial poultry farming units. In general, they are docile birds and can be considered as ISA Browns.
How many eggs does an ISA Brown Hen lay?
When it comes to egg production, the ISA Brown is a superstar. They can lay an average of 300 to 320 large brown eggs annually, making them one of the top egg-laying breeds. Their eggs are known for their consistent size and quality, so many small-scale farmers rely on them for egg sales.
Care for ISA Brown Chickens
Raising ISA Browns is relatively straightforward, but like any animal, they require proper care to stay healthy and productive.
Housing and Space Requirements
ISA Browns adapt well to both free-range and confined spaces. If you opt for a coop, ensure it’s spacious enough to allow them room to move around comfortably. A rule of thumb is to provide about 4 square feet of space per bird inside the coop and around 10 square feet in the outdoor run.
Feeding Guidelines
Proper nutrition is essential for maintaining the high egg production that ISA Browns are known for. A balanced diet of layer feed containing the necessary protein and calcium should be supplemented with fresh water and the occasional treat like leafy greens or kitchen scraps. For optimal health, give them grit and oyster shells to aid digestion and support strong eggshells.
What are the benefits of ISA Brown Chicken?
- High Egg Production: ISA Browns are prolific layers, producing 300+ large brown eggs annually, making them ideal for commercial and backyard egg production.
- Friendly Temperament: Their docile and curious nature makes them easy to handle, manage, and integrate into backyard flocks.
- Disease Resistance: ISA Browns are bred for robust health and hardiness, which reduces the risk of disease and increases their longevity.
- Adaptability: They thrive in various climates and management systems, from free-range to intensive production, making them versatile and low-maintenance birds.
Final Words
The ISA Brown chicken is a friendly, hardy, and prolific egg-laying breed, making it a top choice for backyard farmers and egg producers. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced chicken keeper, these birds will make a fantastic addition to your flock.
FAQs
How long do ISA Brown chickens live?
ISA Brown chickens typically live between 4 and 5 years, although their most productive egg-laying years are in the first two to three years.
How many eggs does an ISA Brown chicken lay weekly?
An ISA Brown chicken can lay about 5 to 6 eggs per week.
Are ISA Brown chickens good with children?
Yes, ISA Browns are known for their calm and friendly temperament, making them great for families with children.
What’s the best feed for ISA Brown chickens?
A balanced layer feed high in protein and calcium is best for ISA Browns to support their high egg production.
Can ISA Brown chickens tolerate cold weather?
ISA Browns can handle a range of temperatures, but they need proper shelter and care during colder months to prevent health issues.
