Black Rock

Happy with similar breeds

This breed is not aggressive, however it is not ideal to mix them with smaller bantams or have them outnumber other breeds. They are better suited to being kept with their own kind or with breeds of similar size and temperament.

Aloof but friendly

This breed is naturally inquisitive and friendly, but they may come across as a bit aloof since they don’t enjoy being handled too much. They tend to be independent and prefer to do their own thing.

250-300 Medium/Large Light Brown PA

This breed can lay up to 300 medium to large light brown eggs annually and is not typically prone to being broody.

Character

The Black Rock is a gentle bird with a calm temperament, and can be hand-tamed with patience and consistency. They are not particularly flighty, making them a confident and resilient choice for back garden egg production. This breed thrives in mixed flocks and enjoys free ranging, so a spacious garden or field would be ideal for them. The Rhode Rock is a low-stress breed, making it a perfect option for first-time poultry keepers who want a reliable egg layer and a friendly, easy-going hen. While they may not become lap chickens, they will gradually tolerate handling with time and patience.

Sutability

Hybrid Rhode Rock hens are excellent foragers and love to roam, so they are best suited to larger spaces rather than small back gardens. They require plenty of grass time to be happy and healthy. A nutritious diet is essential for hybrid chickens, so provide high-quality layers’ pellets along with extra treats that include calcium, vitamin D, and B12 to support their egg production. Ensure they have access to fresh feed and water at all times. While not overly affectionate, they can be hand-tamed and will tolerate being picked up. Ideal foragers, they would thrive in a spacious, secure walk-in run for when you're not around, with plenty of room to safely forage outdoors. If you have a large area, you can use electric fencing to create designated foraging zones. Since hybrids can fly, a secure enclosure with roosting bars for nighttime sleep is a must, and they will do well with a house that has a ladder or ramp.

History

Hybrid chickens come in various types, typically the result of crossbreeding different pure breeds like the Light Sussex, Rhode Island Red, and Leghorn. The Black Rock, for example, is a hybrid bred from the Rhode Island Red and Barred Plymouth Rock. Known for their calm nature, they are generally confident, friendly, and not easily stressed. Hybrid chickens were developed relatively recently, beginning in the 1950s, as farmers and poultry keepers previously relied on purebred chickens. Hybrids are specifically bred for prolific egg production, though their laying tends to slow after about three years. They can produce up to 300 medium to large light brown eggs annually and are not particularly prone to being broody.