Breed Profile of the Sussex Breed of Chicken

Although it was originally bred mostly for its meat qualities, the Sussex breed of chicken has become increasingly popular as a dual purpose breed. Although several of the other similar breeds from the south of England (such as those from Kent and Surrey) have disappeared, the Sussex has continued to thrive and is still being used to develop commercial chicken breeds.

The History of the Sussex Breed of Chicken

The Sussex breed of chicken originated in the south of England during the 1900s, when the Victorians developed them to help supply the London market for fatter and larger birds. Although the Speckled variety was the original and is still probably the most popular, several other varieties were soon added. They have since maintained their popularity in Britain, and are frequently used to develop their commercial meat strains. Recent crossings have occurred between the Sussex and such various other breeds as the Rhode Island Red, the Indian Game, and the Leghorn. Although they are a good dual purpose chicken, they continue to be more popular in Canada, Great Britain, and Europe than in the United States.

The Appearance of the Speckled Sussex

The Sussex is universally regarded as a very attractive breed of chicken, with rectangular bodies. They are usually rather large birds, with cocks usually averaging around 9 pounds and hens averaging 7 pounds, with younger birds averaging lower weights. They come in a number of varieties, including speckled, red, light, brown and, more recently the buff variety has also become available. They have a large single comb, and have very strong legs and thighs.

What to Expect from the Sussex Breed of Chicken

The Sussex is a very mild-mannered breed of chicken that is quite docile and thus ideal as pets or for those who might have children. Although they are good mothers and do frequently go broody, they do not sit their eggs quite as often as some of the other large breeds. They can produce as many as 260 brown eggs a year, making them one of the better layers among the larger breeds of chicken (and also making them an ideal choice for those looking for an excellent backyard laying flock.) Truly, the combination of their excellent meat and their prolific egg output makes them a treasure among chicken breeds.

Clearly, the Sussex, although more popular outside of the United States, should definitely be considered an excellent addition to a flock in any country. Those who decide to add this extraordinary bird to their own batch of chickens will certainly not be disappointed.

Sources
Both Oklahoma State University and the Devonshire Traditional Breed Centre contain useful information about the Sussex and other chicken breeds.