Ex-batt hybrid chicken
An ex-batt is a commercial hybrid hen retired from an egg farm, usually at around 18 months (about 72 weeks), and rehomed as a garden hen.
The Ex-batt hybrid is a hybrid chicken breed. Its origin is given as UK.
It is kept in large form. Recognised colours: Brown/red (typically ISA Brown, Lohmann Brown, Hy-Line Brown).
It lays brown eggs.
Compiled from bhwt.org.uk, poultrykeeper.com. See sources
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Identity
- Species
- Chicken
- Type
- Hybrid
- Origin
- UK
History
Farms replace hens after their first laying year. Charities such as the British Hen Welfare Trust rehome them. Retirement age is commercial, not the hen's natural lifespan.
Appearance
Usually brown hybrids. They often arrive scruffy or nearly bald, with pale, floppy combs, which is normal.
Recognised colours
Brown/red (typically ISA Brown, Lohmann Brown, Hy-Line Brown)
Size and weight
- Forms
- Large
Eggs
- Egg colour
- Brown
- Notes
- They lay less than in their first year but can still lay well.
Hybrid egg figures are for the first year. They fall in later years and vary by supplier.
Temperament
- In short
- Usually friendly and trusting
- Keeping notes
- Give a secure, draught-free house with soft bedding, good layer feed and a small enclosed run at first. Let them build leg strength before perching. Feathers usually regrow within weeks.
Hardiness
Not recorded yet.
Broodiness
Non-broody
Flying
Not recorded yet.
Suitability
- Good to know
- BHWT advises against hen coats, which can damage new feathers and stop dust bathing.
Conservation status (RBST)
Not on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust's priority list.
Breed club
Not recorded yet.
Sources
This page is compiled from:
Review
Nothing is flagged on this page at the moment. Breeds and strains vary, so check with a breeder or club too.
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