Meet the Penedesenca: A Chicken Breed That Lays Dark Red Eggs
If you’re looking to add some color to your egg basket, you might want to consider the Penedesenca. This increasingly popular breed is best known for laying eggs with a deep, dark reddish-brown shell. Originating in the Penedès region of Spain, these beautiful birds are gaining traction with backyard chicken keepers in the United States.
So, what else makes the Penedesenca special? In this article, we’ll explore everything from their striking appearance – including their unique carnation comb and range of feather colors – to their impressive egg-laying abilities and non-broody nature. We’ll also discuss their temperament, foraging skills, and awareness of predators, as well as their overall hardiness in both hot and cold climates.
This guide is for backyard chicken hobbyists, homesteaders, and poultry enthusiasts interested in learning more about the Penedesenca. If you’re thinking about adding these unique birds to your flock, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll give you a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know about the wonderful crele Penedesenca chicken.
Where do Penedesenca chickens come from?
The Penedesenca chicken breed originated in the Penedès region of Spain. For centuries, these birds were important to the local economy and culture.
But by the 1980s, the breed was nearly extinct. A Spanish government biologist stepped in to revive the breed, and thanks to his efforts, the Penedesenca survived.
Today, there’s renewed interest in the Penedesenca, especially in the United States. More and more small farmers are seeking out this heritage breed for its unique qualities.
What do Penedesenca Chickens look like?
The Penedesenca is a striking bird, known not just for its egg-laying prowess but also for its unique appearance. Let’s dive into the details of their plumage, comb, and overall build.
Penedesenca feather colors and patterns
Penedesencas come in four recognized color varieties, each with its own distinctive charm:
- Black: The most common variety, Black Penedesencas are a glossy, beetle-green black all over.
- Crele: The Crele Penedesenca (the variety we’re focusing on) features barred feathers in shades of gold and white, creating a visually appealing pattern. Males tend to have more vibrant gold, while females are a softer, more understated hue.
- Partridge: Partridge Penedesencas exhibit a rich, brown base color with intricate black markings on each feather. Females have a more defined pattern than males.
- Wheaten: Wheaten Penedesencas have a creamy white or pale yellow base color, with males often displaying some reddish-orange accents.
What else is notable about the Penedesenca chicken’s appearance?
Beyond their feather colors, Penedesencas have a few other defining characteristics:
- Carnation comb: The comb is the bird’s crowning glory. Penedesencas boast a unique “carnation” comb, a type of comb that resembles a tightly ruffled flower. It’s a large, floppy comb with multiple points and folds, giving it a distinctive and somewhat whimsical appearance.
- White-cored, red-rimmed earlobes: Their earlobes are a striking combination of white in the center and a vibrant red around the edges.
- Honey-colored eyes: Their eyes are a warm, inviting honey color.
How big do Penedesenca chickens get?
Penedesencas are a relatively lightweight breed. Roosters typically weigh around 5.5 pounds, while hens average 4.5 pounds. Black Penedesenca hens tend to be slightly heavier than the other varieties.
What do Penedesenca chicks look like?
Penedesenca chicks are fluffy and adorable, like most baby chickens. Their down color varies depending on their eventual adult plumage. Black Penedesenca chicks are typically black, while Crele chicks have a mix of yellow and light brown down. Partridge and Wheaten chicks have varying shades of brown and yellow.
Penedesenca Chickens and Egg Laying
Penedesenca chickens are known for laying eggs with a beautiful, dark reddish-brown shell. Chicken keepers often describe the color as a dark “wet terracotta” with tons of speckles, or “the color of a damp clay flower pot.” They’re really something to see!
These hens usually start laying around 5 months of age and will typically give you 3-4 eggs a week, which averages to about 200 eggs per year.
Like any chicken breed, a Penedesenca’s egg production can be affected by a few things. A good diet is key, as is a safe and comfortable environment. Of course, overall health plays a big role, too. If your hen isn’t feeling well, she probably won’t lay as many eggs.
Broodiness: Do Penedesenca hens want to hatch their eggs?
Penedesencas are known to have a high tendency to go broody, meaning they really want to hatch their eggs! They’re known to be good mothers, too, so if you’re hoping to hatch chicks, a Penedesenca hen might be a good choice.
Meat Production of Penedesenca Chickens
Penedesencas are primarily bred for egg laying, not for meat production. While they can be used for meat, they aren’t typically the first choice for that purpose.
The meat quality is generally considered moderate. It’s not known for being exceptionally flavorful or tender compared to dedicated meat breeds.
Their yield is also relatively low. If you’re looking for a chicken specifically for meat, there are many breeds that would be much better suited to the task.
Penedesenca chicken: A hardy breed
If you’re looking for a chicken breed that can handle a variety of conditions, the Penedesenca may be for you.
How do Penedesenca chickens do in the heat?
Penedesencas are highly adaptable to warm climates. They’re native to a region of Spain that tends to be hot and dry, and they’ve developed the ability to thrive in these conditions.
How do Penedesenca chickens do in the cold?
Penedesencas aren’t as well-suited to cold weather as they are to hot weather. Their large combs and wattles make them susceptible to frostbite in freezing temperatures.
If you live in a cold climate, you can take steps to protect your Penedesencas from the cold. For example, you can use Sweeter Heaters in your coop to keep them warm. You’ll need to provide extra care for your Penedesencas during the winter months.
Penedesenca chickens vs. predators
Penedesencas are known for their predator evasion skills. They’re alert and quick, and they’re good at spotting danger. Penedesenca roosters are particularly protective of their flocks, and they’ll often put themselves in harm’s way to defend their hens.
One chicken keeper says that, “Alert as they are, nothing can sneak up on them during the day, nor drop down from the sky unobserved.”
Penedesenca chickens: A+ foragers
Penedesencas are exceptional foragers. They’re able to find food in a variety of environments, and they’re not afraid to work hard to get it. If you’re looking for a chicken breed that can help you control pests in your yard, the Penedesenca is a good choice.
Penedesenca chickens: Can they handle confinement?
Penedesencas don’t adapt well to confinement. They need plenty of space to roam and forage. If you try to keep them cooped up, they’ll become stressed and unhappy.
If you’re going to raise Penedesencas, make sure you have a large yard or pasture where they can roam freely.
Penedesenca chicken temperament: Just what kind of birds are they?
Penedesencas are beautiful and productive birds, but they aren’t necessarily the friendliest chickens on the block. They tend to be on the flighty side and not super interested in hanging out with people. If you’re dreaming of a chicken that’ll sit in your lap to be petted, this probably isn’t it.
How are Penedesenca chickens around children?
Because they can be skittish and don’t particularly enjoy being handled, Penedesencas may not be the best choice for families with younger kids who want to pick them up and cuddle them.
How well do Penedesenca chickens get along with other chickens?
Opinions seem to differ on how well Penedesencas integrate into a mixed flock. Some owners report that they can be a bit bossy or aggressive toward other breeds. However, others have found that Penedesencas who are allowed to free-range tend to be less aggressive overall, presumably because they have more space and opportunities to forage and roam.
Are Penedesenca roosters aggressive to people?
Like most chicken breeds, rooster aggression can vary quite a bit from bird to bird. Some Penedesenca roosters are perfectly well-behaved, while others can be more assertive or even aggressive toward people.
If you have an aggressive rooster, make sure children know to give him a wide berth. You can also try carrying a stick or broom to gently discourage him from approaching you. In some cases, it may be necessary to rehome an overly aggressive rooster.
Penedesenca chickens: Are they noisy?
Penedesencas are known to be moderately to highly vocal chickens, so if you’re sensitive to noise or have close neighbors, this is something to consider before adding them to your backyard flock.
Penedesenca Chicken Health and Life Expectancy
The Penedesenca is generally considered a healthy breed, and there are no breed-specific health problems that owners need to worry about.
Penedesencas typically live for 5 to 8 years. However, with excellent care and optimal living conditions, they may live even longer. Providing a high-quality diet, a clean and spacious coop, and protection from predators and extreme weather are key to maximizing the lifespan of your Penedesenca chickens.
Other breeds to consider
Penedesenca chickens are great for some backyard keepers but not necessarily for everyone. Depending on your location, space, and goals, other breeds might be a better fit.
For example, if you live in a place with very cold winters, you might prefer a cold-hardy breed, such as an Australorp or Wyandotte. If you want chickens that are very friendly and docile, consider Orpingtons or Cochins.
There are many breeds to choose from, so do your research to find the ones that are right for you.
Wrapping Up
With their striking appearance, blue eggs, impressive foraging skills, and keen awareness of predators, the Penedesenca chicken is a breed apart.
If you’re considering adding Penedesencas to your flock, remember that they need plenty of space to roam and forage. They also benefit from protection from the cold, and it helps to understand their somewhat flighty temperament.
Are Penedesencas right for you? If you have the room and are looking for a productive breed that lays beautiful eggs, these chickens might be a perfect fit.