Do White Chickens Lay Colored Eggs?

Tactfully exploring the question of whether white chickens lay colored eggs, we delve into the fascinating world of avian eggshell colors and the common misconceptions surrounding them. While it is easy to believe that a chicken's feather color somehow dictates the hue of their eggs, this is far from the truth. Feather color has no bearing on the eggshell color. Instead, the pigments and genetics within the mother hen determine the color.

The Surprising Reality of Eggshell Colors

Understanding that feather color does not influence eggshell color is essential for any poultry enthusiast or anyone interested in avian biology. Here, we explore the egg colors of some noteworthy white chicken breeds and clarify the confusion that arises from these names.

White Ameraucanas and Blue Eggs

One of the most striking examples of a white chicken laying a colored egg is the White Ameraucana. Despite its white feathering, this breed is renowned for its distinctive blue eggs. The Ameraucana breed, named after the Department of Agriculture in Chile, where it was first recognized, is known for its colorful eggshells, which can also include shades of green or shades of blue. The blue pigment in Ameraucana eggs comes from a protein called oocyanin, which is not present in brown or white eggshells.

White Legbars and Their Blue Eggs

Another white chicken breed that lays blue eggs is the White Legbar. This breed, which originated in the UK, closely resembles the White Wyandotte but is recognized for its unique black and white barred feathering and, of course, its blue eggs. The black-and-white feather pattern adds a visually appealing contrast but has no influence on the egg color, which is determined by the same oocyanin pigment found in Ameraucanas.

White Plymouth Rocks and Brown Eggs

White Plymouth Rocks, on the other hand, are known for their brown eggs. Although their feathers are predominantly white, these hens lay eggs with a deep brown shell. The reasons for this color difference are fascinating, as it results from a buildup of a pigment called protoporphyrin, which gives the eggshells their characteristic brown hue. This pigment is not present in blue or green eggshells but does contribute to the color seen in many other breeds.

White Marans and Dark Brown Eggs

The White Maran, a breed of French chickens, is recognized for its dark brown eggs. These eggs have a rich, dark brown shell, which differs greatly from the white feathers of the bird. This coloration is a result of a similar pigmentation process as in the White Plymouth Rocks, where the buildup of protoporphyrin results in a dark brown eggshell. Interestingly, the Marans are a standard breed recognized by poultry enthusiasts for their dual-purpose nature, combining egg-laying and meat production.

White Olive Eggers and Olive-Finished Eggs

Lastly, the White Olive Egger, a breed known for its unique and creative name, lays eggs with an olive-green color. Though these birds might have white feathers, their eggs possess a distinct olive hue, often interpreted as a mix of brown and green. The olive pigment in these eggs comes from a specific genotype that produces this unique coloration. This breed is particularly popular among hobbyists for its experimental nature and unusual eggshell color.

It is important to note that the color of the egg is influenced by the genetics and pigments within the bird, not its feather color. Feather coloration and eggshell coloration are regulated by different genes and mechanisms. Understanding these nuances can help in breeding practices, ensuring that enthusiasts and farmers can make the best choices for their flocks based on their specific needs and preferences.