All About Delaware State Bird: The Delaware Blue Hen

The Delaware Blue Hen is a chicken breed that was once common in the United States. The breed gets its name from its blue-grey plumage and its ability to fend for itself in the wild. Today, the Delaware Blue Hen is considered a rare breed, but it is still popular among those who appreciate its unique qualities.

This chicken is an excellent egg layer, and its eggs are said to have a rich flavor. The breed is also known for its docile temperament, making it a good choice for those who want a calm chicken around the yard. If you’re thinking of adding a Delaware Blue Hen to your flock, read on to learn more about this unique breed.

History of the Delaware Blue Hen

The Delaware Blue Hen is a chicken breed that dates back to the 18th century. The breed gets its name from the state of Delaware, where it was once common. The Delaware Blue Hen is thought to be a descendant of the Malay chicken, which was brought to the United States by Dutch settlers in the 1600s.

Delaware Blue Hen was once a popular breed in the United States, but it began to decline in popularity in the early 20th century. The breed nearly went extinct during World War II, but it was saved by a few dedicated enthusiasts who kept the breed alive. Today, the Delaware Blue Hen is considered a rare breed, but it is slowly making a comeback.

What Does the Delaware Blue Hen Look Like? 

Delaware Blue Hen is a small chicken that is blue-gray with a white chest and belly. The hens typically weigh between 4 and 6 pounds, while the roosters can weigh up to 8 pounds. They have a single comb and wattles, as well as yellow skin.

The male and female Delaware Blue Hen look similar, with the main difference being that the rooster has a larger body. The hens also have a smaller head and beak, as well as shorter legs. Both sexes have blue-gray feathers, although the males’ feathers are usually darker. The hens also have a white chest and belly, while the roosters usually have a more mottled chest.

Why Did Delaware Choose the Blue Hen as Their State Bird? 

The Delaware blue hen was chosen as the state bird of Delaware on April 14, 1939. The blue hen is a breed of chicken that is native to the United States and is particularly associated with the state of Delaware. The breed was originally developed in the 18th century from chickens brought to the American colonies from Europe.

The blue hen is a fitting choice for Delaware’s state bird because of its strong connection to the state’s history and culture. The breed is a hardy and productive chicken that is well-suited to the state’s climate and terrain. The blue hen is also a symbol of Delaware, appearing on the state’s license plates and as the mascot for the state’s football team.

What Do Delaware Blue Hens Eat? 

In the wild, Delaware blue hens eat a variety of small insects and invertebrates, as well as some seeds and berries. They forage on the ground in dense vegetation, using their strong beaks to probe the leaf litter for food.

Some of the favorite foods of Delaware blue hens include crickets, grasshoppers, beetles, and caterpillars. They will also eat wild fruits such as blackberries, raspberries, and grapes. In captivity, Delaware blue hens can be fed a diet of commercially available chicken feed supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables.

Are Delaware Blue Hens Good Pets? 

The Delaware Blue Hen is not a typical pet. These birds are known for their high energy and independent nature. They are also quite aggressive, which can make them difficult to handle. While they can be friendly and affectionate with their owners, they are not recommended as pets for families with young children. If you’re considering adding a Delaware Blue Hen to your family, be prepared to provide them with plenty of space to roam and a lot of attention.

Are Delaware Blue Hens Endangered? 

The Delaware blue hen is not an endangered species. However, their numbers have been declining in recent years due to loss of habitat and changes in farming practices. The Delaware Blue Hen Chicken Association is working to conserve and protect the breed.

Conclusion

The Delaware blue hen is a fascinating bird with a long history. This breed is well-suited to the state of Delaware, and its strong connection to the state makes it a fitting choice for the state bird. If you’re considering adding a Delaware blue hen to your family, be prepared to provide them with plenty of space and attention.

FAQ

What Color Eggs Does A Delaware Blue Hen Lay?

Delaware blue hens are excellent egg layers, producing up to 200 eggs per year. The eggs are a light brown color and have a rich flavor.

Do Blue Hens Lay Blue Eggs?

No, Delaware blue hens do not lay blue eggs. Their eggs are a light brown color.