Dorking (chicken)

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The Dorking is a breed of chicken that is believed to have originated in Italy during the period of the Roman Empire. One of the earliest known mentions of this breed was by the Roman writer Columella during the reign of Julius Caesar. In his text, Rei rusticae libri, he described the breed as, "square-framed, large and broad-breasted, with big heads and small upright combs...the purest breed being five-clawed". From there it was introduced to Great Britain by the Romans at an early date where much of its development continued to take place. They appeared in the first British poultry show in 1845. They were later used to produce the Sussex and Faverolles

breeds.

Characteristics

The Dorking has a rectangular body with very short, five-toed legs. Due to its relatively large comb it generally requires protection in cold weather. Dorkings are also well known for their versatility as a breed for both egg and meat production. It is one of the few breeds with red earlobes that produces a white-shelled egg. The skin colour beneath the feathers is white. The standard weight is 9 pounds for a cock, 8 pounds for a cockerel, 7 pounds for a hen, and 6 pounds for a pullet. Furthermore, the breed is very docile. The bird has five recognized varieties: White, Silver-grey, Red, Dark and Cuckoo.

They are noted for being exceptionally broody at times in entire flocks refusing to lay and preferring to set on eggs to incubate them.

Glenn Drowns flock from Sand Hills Preservation Center in Iowa is recorded to be exceptional layers and being hardy even at temperatures of 25 below zero. (1) "Poultry for anyone" by Victoria Roberts BVSc, MRCVS, Hon. Sec. of the Dorking breeds club.

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