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Butterscotch

Buff Orpington

3.2 years old

Buff Orpington

“A golden loaf with a heart of gold.”

Egg Production

Slowing Down1–2/wk

Production tapering off

First egg

Slowing

Retired

3.1yr

Not laying
Peak
Good
Declining

Egg Color

Brown

Fun Facts

✦Often called the "Golden Retriever of chickens" for their calm, friendly, lap-sitting disposition
✦Go broody reliably and are among the best mothers in the chicken world
✦Their dense fluffy feathers make them appear much heavier than they actually are

About

A large, fluffy, golden-buff British breed beloved for its exceptionally gentle temperament and reliable egg production.

Created in 1886 by poultry breeder William Cook in Orpington, Kent, England, by crossing Minorcas, Langshans, and Plymouth Rocks. The buff color variety (1894) became the most popular. Orpingtons were originally dual-purpose but were refined into a heavier show bird over time. Imported to the US in the 1890s, they remain one of the most popular backyard breeds.

Care Considerations

Dense feathering can harbor lice and mites more easily than sleek breeds — inspect regularly and dust with diatomaceous earth as prevention. Prone to obesity when confined without room to forage; limit high-calorie treats. Fluffy feathers around the vent can become soiled — trim if needed. Very cold-hardy.

Details

Species

chicken

Sex

female

Hatch Date

2023-02-28

Status

Living

Processing Weight

—

Size

Large Fowl

Egg Quantity

~4 / week

Egg Color

Light brown

Heat Tolerance

Low (dense feathers)

Cold Tolerance

Very hardy

Personality

Docile & broody

Journal

Feb 14, 2026

Butterscotch is hands down the friendliest bird in the flock. Follows us everywhere.

Jan 31, 2026

She went broody again — third time this season. Broke it after five days.

Jan 17, 2026

Butterscotch and Ruby have been foraging together all afternoon. Sweet pair.