Blue and Splash Australorp
This is a popular hybrid breed with slightly smaller eggs than the other breeds we deal with therefore the minimum size we sell is 55 grams rather than the regular 59 grams. The eggs are white or cream coloured.
The Blue and Splash Australorps are color variations of the traditional Black Australorp, an Australian dual-purpose heritage breed famous for its heavy egg production and calm demeanor. While Black Australorps are the most common variety, Blue and Splash birds carry the exact same body shape, size, and friendly temperament, but feature striking slate and patterned feathering.
Blue/Splash Genetics - The Technical Stuff
The blue color in chickens is governed by an incomplete dominant dilution gene (denoted as Bl). Because this gene does not "breed true," breeding two Blue Australorps produces a mixed ratio of colors rather than 100% blue offspring:
25% Black: Inherits two normal genes (bl/bl).
50% Blue: Inherits one blue gene (Bl/bl), resulting in slate-gray or dark blue feathers.
25% Splash: Inherits two blue genes (Bl/Bl), resulting in off-white/pale gray feathers speckled with dark blue or black "splashes".
- Appearance: Blue Australorps feature slate-gray plumage with darker blue or black lacing around the edges of the feathers.
- Splash Australorps feature a soft white or cream base color heavily peppered with slate and charcoal markings. Both possess red combs, wattles, and dark slate-colored legs.
- Egg Production: While slightly less prolific than Black Australorps (which hold historical laying records), Blue and Splash varieties remain strong, consistent layers and frequently lay through the winter months.
- Flock Behavior: Highly docile and peaceful, making them ideal around children and mixed flocks, though their gentle nature means they can sometimes be bullied by aggressive breeds.
Please visit the Buying Eggs page for more information about buying fertilized eggs from us and, to check on availability, to order eggs or make an enquiry, please visit the Contact Page.