Key Characteristics

This dual-purpose breed is easy to keep. Their placid docile character means that the birds tolerate confinement well but they love to forage. The calm temperament means that the Australorp is a good broody and caring, attentive mother. However many hobbyists today prefer varieties with pretty plumage patterns, which Australorps don’t have.

History

• Ancestor birds were Orpingtons, developed in the UK and then transported to Australia.
• Whilst Orpingtons in the UK were turning into a fluffy exhibition breed, the ’Australian Utility Orpingtons’ were improved to increase egg production.
• In 1921 some ’Australian Utility Orpingtons’ were imported back to the UK and became the Australorp breed.

 
Appearance

• Australorps are a dual-purpose breed, good for eggs and meat.
• There are 3 standard colours, white, blue and the original, black
• The bantam version is the most common.

Uses

Depending on the strain hens should produce 200 medium sized light brown eggs in a season. Australorps make a good table bird with a reputation for maturing early.