Easter Egger chickens typically weigh between 4 to 6 pounds when fully grown, making them a medium-sized breed ideal for backyard flocks.
Easter Egger chickens are beloved backyard birds known for their colorful eggs and quirky personalities. If you’re considering adding these charming birds to your flock, understanding their size and space requirements is essential for proper care.
Easter Egger Size & Weight
Easter Eggers are medium-sized chickens with a compact, sturdy build. Here’s what to expect:
| Gender | Average Weight | Height |
|---|---|---|
| Hens | 4-5 lbs | 12-14 inches |
| Roosters | 5-6 lbs | 14-16 inches |
Their size makes them excellent for backyard flocks, as they don’t require excessive space but are large enough to hold their own with other breeds. The recommended coop size for 10 chickens works well for Easter Eggers.
Growth Rate
Easter Eggers reach their full size by 5-6 months of age. Unlike meat breeds that grow rapidly, they develop at a moderate pace:
- 0-8 weeks: Rapid chick growth (1-2 lbs)
- 8-16 weeks: Steady development (2-4 lbs)
- 4-6 months: Final size achieved
Physical Characteristics
Beyond their size, Easter Eggers have distinctive features:
Unique Appearance
These chickens often display:
- Poofy cheeks (muffs)
- Beards under their beaks
- Varied feather colors and patterns
- Pea combs (small, low-profile combs)
Their appearance can vary widely since they’re not a standardized breed. Some may resemble their Araucana or Ameraucana ancestors more closely than others.
Space Requirements
Proper space prevents stress and health issues:
Coop Space
- Minimum 4 sq ft per bird inside coop
- 8-10 inches of roosting space per chicken
Run Space
- Minimum 10 sq ft per bird in enclosed run
- More space if free-ranging (see how far free-range chickens roam)
Egg Production & Size
While not directly related to their physical size, Easter Eggers are prized for their egg production:
- 200-280 eggs per year
- Medium to large egg size
- Egg colors: blue, green, pink, or brown
Their egg production begins around 5-6 months of age, coinciding with when they reach full size.
Comparing Easter Eggers to Other Breeds
Understanding how they stack up against other popular breeds helps with flock planning:
| Breed | Average Weight | Egg Color |
|---|---|---|
| Easter Egger | 4-6 lbs | Blue/Green |
| Rhode Island Red | 6-8 lbs | Brown |
| Leghorn | 4-5 lbs | White |
| Orpington | 7-8 lbs | Brown |
Care Considerations for Their Size
Their medium size makes them relatively easy to care for:
Feeding
- 1/4 lb feed per day
- Standard layer feed (16-18% protein)
- Supplement with calcium for strong eggshells
Health
Their small pea combs make them more cold-hardy than large-combed breeds. However, their fluffy facial feathers may require occasional cleaning to prevent mites.
Behavior
Easter Eggers are active foragers. Their medium size allows them to be agile while still having enough presence to avoid bullying in mixed flocks. For tips on managing flock dynamics, see our guide on stopping chickens from pecking each other.
Choosing Easter Eggers for Your Flock
These chickens are excellent choices for:
- Backyard flocks with limited space
- Families wanting colorful eggs
- Beginner chicken keepers
- Cold climates (thanks to their small combs)
Their manageable size, friendly personalities, and excellent egg production make Easter Eggers one of the most popular choices for small-scale poultry keepers across North America.