Holland
Critically rare American white-egg layer.
Is the Holland right for you? Take the Breed Matcher →About the Holland
Holland chickens are medium-sized birds with a sleek, white plumage and an upright posture. They have a calm and friendly temperament, making them good companions in a backyard setting. This breed is distinctive for its white egg-laying capabilities and strong productivity, particularly in lean feed conditions.
History
Developed in the 1940s in the United States from crossing various breeds, including the White Leghorn. The goal was to create a reliable white-egg layer that could thrive in commercial production, and it quickly gained popularity before becoming critically rare.
Care tips
Hollands are hardy in various climates but benefit from sheltered spaces during extreme weather. They are not known for being broody, which means they typically won’t sit on eggs. Providing enough space for foraging can help maintain their health and promote happiness.
Color varieties
Fun facts
- Hollands were specifically bred for high egg production.
- They can lay up to 200 white eggs per year.
- The breed is known for its calm demeanor and social nature.
- Hollands remain a critically endangered breed.
About the Holland chicken
The Holland is an American breed developed in the 1930s, partly from stock imported from the Netherlands. The goal was a dual-purpose bird that laid white eggs, since many American dual-purpose breeds lay brown eggs. White and barred are the recognized varieties.
Hollands are calm and practical birds, and they are rare today.
What to expect
- White eggs, laid at a fair to good rate.
- A medium to heavy dual-purpose body.
- Calm temperament.
- Single comb.
Space and climate
Give standard large fowl space. A dry, airy coop protects the single comb from frostbite in severe cold. Give shade in summer and they do fine.
Who they suit
Hollands suit keepers who want a calm, practical bird that lays white eggs, and anyone interested in rare American breeds. They are a good fit for small homesteads that want eggs and the option of meat from one flock.
Helping preserve the breed
Because Hollands are rare, keepers who breed them help keep the breed going. Keep records of laying and temperament, select good birds to breed, and avoid pairing close relatives when you can.
Compared with similar breeds
A Barred Holland can look like a Barred Plymouth Rock, but it lays white eggs instead of brown. The California Grey is another American barred breed that lays white eggs.
Where to buy
Hollands are a conservation breed and are hard to find. A few breeders keep them.
Common questions about Holland chickens
What color eggs do Hollands lay?
White eggs.
Are Hollands rare?
Yes. They are a rare American breed.
Are Hollands good for meat?
They are a dual-purpose bird, so they can be used for both eggs and meat.
