Scots Grey chickens, or just Scotch Greys, are a Scottish
grey striped chicken. They have been known in Scotland since the 16th century,
and were developed as barnyard fowl for small farms and crofts. Most likely
they related to Dorkings and Malays. They are similar to Cuckoo Marans and
Barred Plymouth Rocks, but their feathers have a less distinct pattern with a
steel-grey base. They are dual-purpose chickens; they lay a good amount of
white eggs and produse wholesome meat.
Males and females can be differentiated based on the color
of the adult birds, as hens usually have a noticeably darker hue. Scots Greys
are relatively heavy chickens, with hens weighing 7-9 pounds (3.2-4 kilos), and
roosters weighing 9-11 pounds (4-5 kilos). They have white skin, a single comb,
and red earlobes.
They are active birds that do best under free range
conditions, and may develop destructive habits when confined. They are hardy,
and can forage well. Hens are not generally inclined to go broody.
Though they have been popular among poultry fanciers for
exhibition, and have their own breed club, they are classed as an endangered
breed by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust.
About Scots Grey Chickens
