Buckeye

The Buckeye is an American heritage chicken from Ohio, developed in the late nineteenth century by Nettie Metcalf. It is a deep mahogany-red, dual-purpose breed with yellow skin and legs, a broad body, and a pea comb that suits cold winters better than many large single-combed chickens. Buckeyes were shaped from farm and game-influenced stock to produce a hardy bird for eggs, meat, and foraging. The breed is often noted as the only American Poultry Association chicken breed credited to a woman developer.

In backyard and homestead flocks, Buckeyes are active, curious birds that appreciate outdoor space and do well where insects, pasture, and deep bedding are part of the system. Hens lay brown eggs at a moderate heritage-breed rate, and cockerels can be grown for the table. The compact comb reduces frostbite risk, though dry ventilation still matters in winter housing. Conservation breeders pay close attention to rich color, correct body shape, vigor, and temperament, since rare breeds can lose working traits when selected only for show appearance.

Colors: Barred, Birchen, Black, Blue, Brown, Buff, Columbian, Crele, Cuckoo, Duckwing, Gold, Gold Laced, Laced, Lavender, Mahogany Red, Mille Fleur, Mottled, Partridge, Penciled, Porcelain, Red, Silver, Silver Laced, Spangled, Splash, Wheaten, White