Breeds like the Jersey Giant, Brahma, and Leghorn are known for laying extra-large eggs, making them popular choices for egg production.
If you’re looking for chickens that produce jumbo-sized eggs, certain breeds stand out. Rhode Island Reds, Plymouth Rocks, and Leghorns are top performers, consistently laying extra large eggs perfect for baking and cooking. This guide explores the best heavy-laying breeds and how to maximize egg size.
Top Chicken Breeds for Extra Large Eggs
These breeds consistently produce large to jumbo-sized eggs:
| Breed | Egg Size | Eggs Per Year | Egg Color |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Red | Large to Jumbo | 250-300 | Brown |
| Plymouth Rock | Large to Extra Large | 200-280 | Brown |
| Leghorn | Large to Extra Large | 280-320 | White |
| Black Copper Marans | Extra Large to Jumbo | 150-200 | Dark Brown |
| Jersey Giant | Large to Jumbo | 180-240 | Brown |
1. Rhode Island Reds
Rhode Island Reds are among the most reliable brown egg layers. Their eggs often weigh 2.5-3 ounces, qualifying as large to jumbo. These hardy birds adapt well to various climates and continue laying through winter. For more on their lifespan and productivity, see our guide on how long Rhode Island Red chickens live.
2. Plymouth Rocks
Barred Rocks and other Plymouth Rock varieties produce consistently large brown eggs. Mature hens (2+ years) often lay extra large eggs weighing 2.25-2.5 ounces. They’re dual-purpose birds with calm temperaments.
3. Leghorns
White Leghorns are prolific layers of large white eggs. According to Cackle Hatchery, they’re the most economical white egg layers, producing up to 320 eggs annually. Their small body size means more efficient feed conversion.
Factors Affecting Egg Size
Several elements influence how large your chickens’ eggs will be:
Age of Hen
Young pullets typically lay smaller eggs. Egg size increases as hens mature, peaking around 2-3 years old. After this point, production may decline but egg size often remains large.
Genetics
Some breeds are genetically predisposed to larger eggs. Hybrid layers like Golden Comets often outperform pure breeds in both size and quantity.
Nutrition
A diet rich in protein (16-18%) and calcium supports larger egg production. Consider supplementing with oyster shell for stronger, bigger eggs. Learn more about when to feed chickens grit for optimal digestion.
Environment
Stress-free hens with adequate space produce better quality eggs. Ensure your coop meets size requirements – our guide on how big a coop for 10 chickens can help.
Hybrid vs. Purebred Layers
Hybrid chickens like Red Sex Links often lay more and larger eggs than purebreds, but there are tradeoffs:
- Hybrid Pros: Higher production, larger eggs, disease resistance
- Hybrid Cons: Shorter productive lifespan (2-3 years), don’t breed true
- Purebred Pros: Longer productive life (4-5 years), breed true, heritage value
- Purebred Cons: Slightly lower production, more variable egg sizes
As noted by Backyard Chickens, some purebreds like Black Copper Marans can rival hybrids for egg size while maintaining breeding potential.
Egg Size Classifications
Egg sizes are determined by weight per dozen:
- Peewee: 15 oz/dozen
- Small: 18 oz/dozen
- Medium: 21 oz/dozen
- Large: 24 oz/dozen
- Extra Large: 27 oz/dozen
- Jumbo: 30 oz/dozen
An individual jumbo egg weighs about 2.5 ounces. Many of the breeds mentioned regularly produce eggs in the extra large to jumbo range.
Maximizing Egg Size
To encourage larger egg production:
- Provide high-quality layer feed with 16-18% protein
- Supplement with calcium (oyster shell)
- Ensure constant access to fresh water
- Maintain consistent lighting (14-16 hours/day)
- Minimize stress factors
- Allow adequate space (4 sq ft/hen in coop)
With proper care, your hens should reach their genetic potential for egg size. Remember that extremely large eggs can sometimes indicate health issues, so monitor your flock’s overall condition.