Breeds like the Jersey Giant, Brahma, and Orpington are known for producing jumbo eggs, making them popular among egg enthusiasts.
If you want eggs so large they barely fit in standard cartons, you need the right chicken breeds. Some hens consistently produce jumbo eggs weighing 2.5+ ounces – perfect for baking, breakfasts, or selling at premium prices. Here’s what you need to know.
Best Chicken Breeds for Jumbo Eggs
These breeds consistently produce the largest eggs:
1. Jersey Giants
True to their name, Jersey Giants are massive birds that lay 280+ large brown eggs annually. Their eggs often reach jumbo size (2.5 oz+). These gentle giants do well in cold climates and make excellent dual-purpose birds.
2. Rhode Island Reds
A classic American breed, RIRs lay 250-300 brown eggs yearly. Many hens produce jumbo eggs, especially as they mature. They’re hardy, productive, and live longer than most breeds.
3. Orpingtons
Buff Orpingtons are fluffy, friendly birds that lay 200+ light brown eggs annually. Their eggs frequently reach jumbo size. These cold-hardy birds make great pets while providing substantial eggs.
4. Production Reds
This hybrid combines Rhode Island Red and New Hampshire strains. They’re egg-laying machines that often produce jumbo brown eggs while being more feed-efficient than purebreds.
5. Black Copper Marans
Prized for their dark chocolate-colored eggs, Marans frequently lay jumbo eggs. The eggs are so large they often won’t fit standard cartons. These French birds are calm and cold-hardy.
| Breed | Egg Color | Annual Production | Typical Egg Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jersey Giant | Brown | 280+ | Jumbo |
| Rhode Island Red | Brown | 250-300 | Large-Jumbo |
| Orpington | Light Brown | 200+ | Large-Jumbo |
| Production Red | Brown | 300+ | Jumbo |
| Black Copper Marans | Dark Brown | 150-200 | Jumbo |
Hybrid Chickens That Lay Jumbo Eggs
Several hybrid breeds are specifically bred for extra-large egg production:
1. Golden Comets/Red Sex Links
These prolific layers produce 300+ jumbo brown eggs annually. Many owners report eggs too large for standard cartons. They’re small-bodied but incredibly efficient egg machines.
2. ISA Browns
A commercial hybrid that lays 300+ jumbo brown eggs yearly. They’re docile, hardy, and begin laying earlier than most breeds (around 16 weeks).
3. Cinnamon Queens
This Rhode Island Red/White hybrid lays 260-300 jumbo brown eggs annually. They’re known for consistent production and large egg size throughout their laying cycle.
Factors That Affect Egg Size
Age of Hen
Young hens typically lay smaller eggs. Egg size increases as they mature, peaking around 1-2 years old. Many breeds produce their largest eggs at 2+ years.
Nutrition
A high-protein diet (18-20%) promotes larger eggs. Layer feed with added calcium ensures strong shells. Grit and oyster shell help with digestion and shell formation.
Genetics
Some bloodlines within breeds produce larger eggs. If jumbo eggs are your priority, ask breeders about their hens’ typical egg size.
Environment
Stress from predators, overcrowding, or extreme weather can reduce egg size. Ensure your flock has proper space, protection, and clean water.
How to Encourage Larger Eggs
- Choose breeds known for large egg production
- Provide 18-20% protein layer feed
- Supplement with calcium (oyster shell)
- Ensure constant access to clean water
- Maintain low-stress environment
- Allow hens to mature (best egg size at 1-2 years)
- Keep nesting boxes clean and inviting
According to Backyard Chickens forum members, some individual hens consistently lay eggs too large for standard cartons, especially certain Marans and Sex Link hybrids.
Egg Size Comparison
Here’s how commercial egg sizes compare by weight (US standards):
- Peewee: 1.25 oz (35g)
- Small: 1.5 oz (42g)
- Medium: 1.75 oz (49g)
- Large: 2 oz (56g)
- Extra Large: 2.25 oz (63g)
- Jumbo: 2.5 oz (70g)
Many backyard chicken keepers report eggs exceeding 2.75 oz from breeds like Jersey Giants and Production Reds – what Australian standards would call “Mega” eggs.
Dual-Purpose Benefits
Several jumbo-egg layers also make excellent meat birds:
Jersey Giants
Roosters can reach 13+ lbs, making them one of the largest chicken breeds.
Orpingtons
Plump bodies provide substantial meat along with large egg production.
Rhode Island Reds
Excellent meat quality while being prolific layers of large eggs.
For those interested in both eggs and meat, these breeds offer the best of both worlds. Their large size also makes them more cold-hardy than smaller breeds.
Egg Color Variations
While most jumbo-egg layers produce brown eggs, some variety exists:
- White Leghorns: Jumbo white eggs
- Black Copper Marans: Extra-dark brown eggs
- Easter Eggers: Large blue/green eggs (though typically not jumbo)
- Blue Plymouth Rocks: Light brown eggs
If you’re selling eggs at market, the dark brown eggs from Marans or the pure white from Leghorns often command premium prices.
Productivity Considerations
While some breeds lay slightly smaller eggs more frequently, others produce fewer but larger eggs:
- Leghorns: 280-320 medium-large white eggs/year
- Production Reds: 300+ jumbo brown eggs/year
- Orpingtons: 200 jumbo light brown eggs/year
According to Stromberg’s Chickens, you may need fewer jumbo-egg layers to meet your family’s needs compared to standard egg producers.
Final Tips for Jumbo Egg Success
To maximize your chances of getting consistently large eggs:
- Select breeds known for large egg production
- Purchase from reputable breeders with proven stock
- Be patient – egg size increases with hen age
- Provide optimal nutrition year-round
- Keep stress levels low with proper housing
- Consider dual-purpose breeds for added benefits