Silverudd Blue
Silverudd Blue is a striking breed known for its unique slate-blue plumage and calm disposition.
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The Silverudd Blue features a beautiful slate-blue feathering, making it an aesthetically pleasing addition to any flock. Hens are known for their calm and friendly temperament, making them ideal pets for backyard keepers. They have a hardy disposition, easily adapting to various environments. Their distinctive color and gentle nature are appealing for both egg production and ornamental purposes.
History
This breed was developed in the 20th century in Sweden by a breeder named Svante Silverudd. The aim was to create a hardy chicken with good temperament and eye-catching appearance, which has since gained popularity among poultry enthusiasts worldwide.
Care tips
Silverudd Blues are known for their robust health but thrive best in well-ventilated coops with ample outdoor space. They can be broody, making them good mothers if you want to raise chicks. Regular handling will help maintain their friendly nature, and they do well in mixed flocks.
Color varieties
Fun facts
- Silverudd Blues are known for their beautiful blue egg production.
- This breed has a calm temperament, suitable for families and beginners.
- The unique slate-blue color can vary in shade among individuals.
- They were one of the first Scandinavian breeds to be recognized for their color.
What to expect from Silverudd Blues
The Silverudd Blue was created by Martin Silverudd, a Swedish breeder who spent decades developing productive layers in the mid 1900s. In many places it is sold under the name Isbar as well. In the US it is still a rare breed, mostly sold by small breeders.
Laying and egg color
The main draw is green eggs from a hen that lays well. Shades run from pale mint to a deeper green, and they vary by hen. For a breed with colored eggs, they are known as productive layers. Like most backyard breeds, they slow down in winter and during the molt.
Colors and breeding
Silverudd Blues come in blue, black and splash. Blue is not a true-breeding color. Two blue parents give blue, black and splash chicks. A black bird bred to a splash gives all blue chicks. That makes it easy to plan if you want a lot of blue birds.
Day to day
Owners describe them as active, curious and friendly, and good foragers. They are medium-light in size, so they do not need as much room as heavy breeds, but they appreciate space to roam. They are not usually broody.
Climate notes
Coming from Sweden, they handle cold well. Their single combs are the weak spot in hard freezes, especially on roosters. Keep the coop dry and ventilated. They do fine in moderate heat with shade.
How they compare
If you want green eggs and more choice, an Olive Egger is easy to find but varies a lot. The Silverudd Blue is a true breed, so its offspring will be Silverudd Blues and lay similar eggs. The Swedish Flower Hen is another Swedish breed that has gained a following in the US. See green egg layers for more options.
Common questions about Silverudd Blues
Are Silverudd Blues rare?
Yes, in the US. They are mostly sold by small breeders.
Do Silverudd Blues lay green eggs?
Yes, usually light to medium green, varying by hen.
Are Silverudd Blues good layers?
Yes. They are known as good layers for a breed with colored eggs.
