As the name suggests, the Buff Brahma chicken is the buff variety of popular Brahma chicken. The Buff Brahma chickens are very large in size. But in terms of temperament, they have the same quiet temperament of other Brahma varieties. And the Buff variety is still very rare today.
The Brahma chicken breed is named for India‘s Brahmaputra River. This breed probably came to the United States on 19th Century sailing ships, or it may have been developed here from other Asian breeds.
However, the Buff Brahma is an enormous, docile, gentle, and is of quiet temperament. And all these features has made this breed one of the best chicken breeds around children. If you are interested in this breed then read further.
Origin And History
The Buff Brahma chicken is a very old Asiatic breed. It was brought to New England by Chinese clipper ships in the late 1800s. Popularity of these chickens grew in the US and Europe due to their large size, pleasant personality and hardiness in different climates. The Buff Brahma chicken variety was recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1874 along with Dark and Light variety.
Buff Brahma Chicken Characteristics
The Buff Brahma chickens are well known for their size, feathered legs, and buff-colored feathers accented by black on their tails and necks. The Buff Brahma chickens have buff or golden colored plumage with black tail feathers, and some black feathers in their necks. They have textured pea combs and medium-sized red wattles.
The Buff Brahma chickens are very large in size. Average live body weight of the mature roosters can go around or up to 12 pounds. And average live body weight of the mature hens is typically around or up to 9.5 pounds.
Color
The color pattern of the Buff Brahma chicken is similar to the Light variety, with black markings on the hackle and tail feathers. Buff Brahmas are truly regal and beautiful chickens with their buff and black coloring.
Size
The Buff Brahma chickens are large in size. Average body weight of the mature roosters is typically around 12 lbs, and the hens are around 9 lbs.
Eggs
The Buff Brahma hens are not among the top eggs producers. A hen typically lay between 150 and 200 eggs per year. The eggs are large in size and are of brown color.
Behavior/Temperament
The Buff Brahma chickens are known for their calm, and gentle nature. They are larger in size than most other common chicken breeds, but they are gentle with docile and friendly dispositions. They are tolerant of other breeds and are not territorial or aggressive. They do not make a lot of noise and good for backyard flocks. The Buff Brahma hens are broody, and they raise their chicks after hatching. They are cold hardy chickens.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Buff Brahma chicken is typically between 5 to 8 years. But in proper care and other maintenance, they can live up to 10 years.
Price
Exact price of the Buff Brahma chicken depends on numerous factors and can vary from place to place. Average price of the day old chicks is typically between $4 to $10. Although, exact price can vary depending upon your location. Please try to visit any of your local hatcheries to know more about the availability and current price.
Pros/Advantages
- Docile and gentle temperament.
- Cold hardy.
- Quiet birds.
- Good layers in winter.
- Large size and unique appearance.
- Good for both meat and eggs production purposes.
Cons/Disadvantages
- Feathered feet, and require extra maintenance.
- Slow to mature as compared to other common chicken breeds.
- Can’t tolerate heat.
- Require more food than regular birds.
Is Cinnamon Queen Chicken Good For You?
Depends on your purpose. If you looking for large chickens with excellent meat quality, good temperament, big eggs, then Buff Brahma will be good for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
People often ask several questions regarding the Buff Brahma chicken. Here we are trying to list the most common and frequently asked question regarding this chicken breed. Hope these questions and answer will help you. Don’t hesitate to ask if you have more questions.
How to distinguish male and female Buff Brahma chickens?
It is not possible for the general people to distinguish male and female day old chicks. You need professional help for doing this, or do DNA test.
Is Buff Brahma an autosexing chicken breed?
No, it is not an autosexing chicken breed. The birds do not have visible differences at hatch based on gender.
How much eggs does a Buff Brahma hen lay per year?
A Buff Brahma hen typically lay between 150 to 200 eggs per year.