Langshan hens
lay three medium to large brown eggs a week. They lay into the winter months
and usually average 150 eggs per annum. Langshans mature slowly as layers and meat
producers. At twenty four weeks they dress out at seven pounds. They produce a
good quality meat, but their shape lends itself more to a roaster than a fryer.
Langshans can easily clear a six foot fence. They tolerate extremes in
temperature from 100 degrees Fahrenheit to subzero.
Langshans
often surprise first-time owners. For a large fowl they prove quite active.
Fortunately, Langshans also possess a docile, calm, and friendly disposition.
They tame easily and live long. Langsshans make a good family pet. The
adaptable Langshan takes to foraging or confinement with equal ease. Langshan
hens brood more than some like; however, they also make good brooders for other
breeds and good mothers to their own.
Langshan
roosters can stand twenty-four inches to thirty-two inches tall. They rank as
one of the tallest and lightest, non-game Asiatic breed in the world. Their
tall, regal deportment translates well in the show ring. Langshans also have a
sixteen inch tail. The American Poultry Association recognizes three varieties
of Langshan chickens: Black, White, and Blue. Black Langshan, the most common
configuration, has black feathers with a green sheen. They stand on black
feathered, bluish-gray legs and feet. Their medium-sized, bright red combs,
wattles, and earlobes stand out against their very black plumage. Change the
black feathers to white, and you get the White Langshan. The very rare Blue
Langshan comes from crossing the Black and White Langshans.
Langshans can
survive about any climate. However, production and appearance can suffer in
extreme conditions. For best results keep them warm, dry, and clean. They need
food ad libitum during their skeletal development. Provide good layer food for
the hens. Enclose the run with six or seven feet fencing or clip their wings to
prevent flight. They tolerate confinement but as an active breed will
appreciate room to forage. Langshans suffer less than other breeds with their
feet; however, keep an eye out for mud balls between the toes.
About Langshan Chickens
