Let’s be honest, the name ‘Deathlayer chicken’ sounds like the most awesome chicken name in the world. As you can probably guess, this is a chicken breed that has managed to obtain that name from the way it lays eggs (no, it doesn’t die when it lays eggs!), but let’s take a look at the Deathlayer chicken in a bit of depth, shall we?
Deathlayer Chicken Facts at a Glance
| Eggs | 200 per year |
| Egg Shell Color | White |
| Temperament | Shy (early socialization is required) |
| Recognized Variety | Gold and Silver |
| Use | Eggs |
| Weight | Male: 5 lb. (2.2 kg) Female: 4 lb. (1.8kg) |
| Country of origin | Germany |
Where Did They Come From?
The Deathlayer chicken is a chicken that originates from Germany. It is a landrace chicken.
This means that it developed naturally in the environment as opposed to being specifically bred.
Its official name is Westfalische Totleger chicken. The German word Tot means “dead” and Leger means “layer”. Thus its name “the Deathlayer chicken from Westphalia” (a region in Germany).
Now, nobody really knows exactly how long this chicken has been around.
This is because like most landrace chickens, it just ‘appeared’. However, the best estimates seem to place the bred at about 400-years old.
It has only just recently managed to make its way over to the United States, though. Here, it is still only raised by a few different breeders.
The breed has only been in the United States since 2016, which is surprising considering some of the traits that the Deathlayer chicken brings to the table.
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The Look of the Deathlayer Chicken
Despite this chicken breed not actually being raised for show purposes, it is a stunning looking chicken breed.
It stands tall and proud when it is wandering around.
The feather patterns look stunning too. The Deathlayer chicken is available in either gold or silver colors, with the latter being the most common in the United States.
The eyes of the Deathlayer chicken will always be black.
Due to the area in which they grew up, they have evolved to have a smaller comb.
This makes them suitable for colder environments as they do not have to worry about frostbite.
As A Show Chicken
In the United States, since this breed was only introduced in 2016 by a single breeder 5-years ago (at the time of writing), it means that it hasn’t really managed to gain that much traction in the show world as of yet.
Most of the people that seem to be pushing this chicken as a breed are those that are looking to see whether it can be sold as a commercial breed of chicken.
That being said, if you are looking to get into show chickens, then the Deathlayer chicken may be a brilliant place to start.
Since serious breeding work hasn’t really taken place in the United States as of yet, it means that you can really get in on the ground floor with this chicken breed, and you may even end up with a chance of winning a few shows.
We can’t think of one other chicken breed where you will have an opportunity like this!
Even if you do not show off the chicken, you will be able to enjoy the fact that this breed will look great wandering around your land. It is also going to be a productive chicken too.
The Deathlayer Chicken for Meat
While the Deathlayer chicken could potentially be raised for meat purposes, we do not even really see it being used for meat.
This is due to the way in which they lay their eggs.
Honestly, the only Deathlayers that will ever be used for meat will be the roosters, and that will be once they have fulfilled their purpose on the breeding front.
If you are looking for chicken breeds for meat, then the Deathlayer can be suitable.
It Deathlayer rooster grows to a decent size of 5 lb. However, it seems a waste to slaughter it for meat, as you are about to see.
Deathlayer Chicken Eggs
This is where this chicken breed really does thrive.
The name comes from the fact that this breed will lay one egg every one or two days from the point that it hits sexual maturity to the day that it dies. You will get around 200 eggs per year.
Unlike other chicken breeds, the quality of the egg or the egg production will not fall. The Deathlayer hen will lay an egg that will weigh 1.7 – 2.3 oz (50 – 60 g).
This is why we never really see them being slaughtered for meat.
You would be missing out on hundreds and hundreds of potential eggs if you did that!
Now, the thing with the Deathlayer chicken is that it is going to require a good amount of feed, particularly calcium-rich feed, in order to keep producing those eggs.
This means that the egg production can be a little bit more expensive than with other breeds.
However, due to the number of eggs that you will be getting, everything will sort of balance itself out over time.
Due to the high egg production and the predictability of the laying, you will only need a few of these chickens to keep a family sustained.
Raising the Deathlayer Chicken
As we said before, this is a chicken breed where you will really need to pay attention to the feed of the chicken in order to ensure that it can continue to lay eggs.
On the personality front, this is a very shy chicken.
This means that it probably isn’t going to be a breed that you can get too close too.
They are for egg production, not for being your friend. However, they are never going to be an aggressive chicken breed.
They just tend to run away if somebody gets a little bit too close to them and that person is deemed to be a threat.
It is important that you start to socialize with this chicken from the moment that they hatch.
If you do not, you will find it tricky to get them to trust humans and, scaring them up, would ultimately cause their egg production to plummet.
This is because this is a chicken breed that has still to be properly domesticated.
The one thing that you will want to pay attention to with the Deathlayer chicken is where you raise them.
This can make things a little bit tricky for some people. While they are fine in indoor coops, this is a bird that really loves to roost in trees.
So, if you can raise the chickens in a secure location with access to trees, then you are going to end up with far better quality eggs due to having happier birds!
Homesteading chickens
For homesteaders seeking unique and productive additions to their self-sustaining lifestyle, Deathlayer chickens bring a blend of history and practicality that is truly captivating.
A Legacy in Their Name: The name “Deathlayer” might raise eyebrows, but its roots tell a story of hardiness and determination. Stemming from the German term “Totleger,” meaning “death layer,” these chickens earned their name for their remarkable ability to lay eggs consistently throughout their lives. This name embodies their role as tireless contributors to your homestead’s egg supply.
Guardians of Heritage: With their origin in Germany’s Westphalia region, Deathlayer chickens are more than just birds; they’re living ties to history. On your homestead, they offer a window into the past, reminding us of the vital roles chickens played in providing sustenance and companionship for generations.
Eggs: Quality Meets Quantity: Deathlayer chickens stand out for their egg-laying prowess. These birds consistently produce a substantial number of large, white eggs, often surpassing 300 in a year. This incredible output turns them into reliable contributors to your homestead’s self-sufficiency, proving that their unusual name conceals their abundant egg-laying potential.
A Homestead Aesthetic: Beyond their utilitarian value, Deathlayer chickens bring a touch of natural beauty to your homestead landscape. With their striking black plumage and vibrant red combs and wattles, they add a picturesque element to your flock. Their gentle nature aligns perfectly with the homesteading ethos, making them both practical and personable companions.
In the world of homesteading, Deathlayer chickens weave a tale of heritage, resilience, and productivity. From their storied origins to their consistent egg production, these birds offer homesteaders a unique opportunity to connect with history while enjoying the practical benefits of a dedicated egg-laying breed.
Comparing chicken breeds
Selecting the right chicken breed for your homestead or poultry venture involves a careful consideration of various factors, including egg production, temperament, maintenance, and overall suitability. Deathlayer chickens stand out among other breeds due to their unique combination of benefits, making them an appealing choice for those seeking an exceptional addition to their flock.
Continuous Egg-Laying: One of the most outstanding benefits of Deathlayer chickens is their consistent egg production throughout their lives. While many chicken breeds experience a decline in egg laying as they age, Deathlayers defy this trend. They are known for laying eggs at an impressive rate, often exceeding 300 large white eggs per year. This relentless egg-laying capacity ensures a steady supply of fresh eggs for your household, contributing to a self-sustaining lifestyle and reducing the need for store-bought eggs.
Historical Significance: Deathlayer chickens carry a legacy that spans centuries. Originating from the Westphalia region of Germany, these heritage birds provide a tangible link to the past. By raising Deathlayers, you become a steward of history, preserving a breed that has endured through generations. The opportunity to raise chickens with such historical significance adds a unique dimension to your homestead and contributes to the preservation of agricultural heritage.
Temperament
Adaptable Temperament: The gentle and docile temperament of Deathlayer chickens makes them a suitable choice for various settings, from family homesteads to backyard flocks. Their calm nature facilitates ease of handling, which is particularly valuable for those who are new to poultry keeping or have children. This temperament also enhances their potential as pets, allowing for enjoyable interactions and a peaceful coexistence within your homestead environment.
Low Maintenance: Deathlayers are relatively low-maintenance chickens, making them a convenient choice for both experienced poultry keepers and newcomers alike. Their hardiness and adaptability enable them to thrive in different climates, provided they have proper shelter and care. Their consistent egg-laying means you can count on a regular supply without the need to constantly introduce new hens to maintain egg production levels.
Heritage and Rarity: The rarity of Deathlayer chickens adds to their allure. By choosing to raise this unique breed, you’re contributing to the preservation of genetic diversity within poultry populations. This is particularly significant in an era where commercial breeds dominate the market. Raising Deathlayers allows you to participate in the conservation of a breed with historical and genetic value, enriching the broader poultry community.
Benefits
Comparative Benefits:
- Compared to High-Egg-Producing Hybrids: While some hybrid breeds are known for their impressive egg-laying rates, they might require more intensive management, including specific diets and living conditions. Deathlayers offer a balance between high egg production and heritage value, making them an attractive alternative for those who prioritize both productivity and tradition.
- Compared to Dual-Purpose Breeds: Dual-purpose breeds like Rhode Island Reds and Plymouth Rocks offer a balance between egg and meat production. However, Deathlayers excel in consistent egg laying throughout their lives, setting them apart as a breed with a focused egg-centric role.
In conclusion, Deathlayer chickens offer a unique combination of benefits that set them apart from other breeds. Their unrelenting egg-laying, historical significance, adaptable temperament, and low-maintenance requirements make them a valuable addition to homesteads and poultry endeavors. By choosing to raise Deathlayers, you’re not only enjoying a regular supply of eggs but also becoming part of a legacy that connects the past, present, and future of poultry keeping.
Deathlayer Chicken Questions
1. What are Deathlayer chickens known for? Deathlayer chickens are renowned for two primary characteristics: their exceptional egg-laying capabilities and their distinct appearance. They have earned their name due to their reputation for consistently laying eggs until late in their lives, making them an attractive choice for those focused on egg production.
2. Where do Deathlayer chickens originate from? Deathlayer chickens have a historical origin rooted in Germany, specifically in the Westphalia region. Their heritage stretches back centuries, contributing to their sense of tradition and significance within the poultry community.
3. Why are they called “Deathlayer” chickens? The intriguing name “Deathlayer” originates from the German term “Totleger,” which translates to “death layer.” This term symbolizes the breed’s remarkable ability to lay eggs well into their later years, outlasting the egg-laying expectations of many other chicken breeds.
4. What is the egg-laying capacity of Deathlayer chickens? Deathlayer hens are prolific layers, often producing more than 300 large, white eggs annually. This impressive output of quality eggs has contributed to their status as a favored breed among those seeking a consistent supply of homegrown eggs.
5. Are Deathlayer chickens good for backyard flocks? Yes, Deathlayer chickens are well-suited for backyard flocks due to their dual benefits of steady egg production and their pleasing appearance. Their friendly demeanor, manageable size, and adaptability make them a valuable addition to family-oriented poultry endeavors.
More questions
6. Do Deathlayer chickens have a particular temperament? Deathlayer chickens are known for their calm and docile temperament. This affable disposition not only makes them manageable for poultry keepers but also enhances their potential as pets, especially in settings where interaction with humans is frequent.
7. Are there different varieties of Deathlayer chickens? While Deathlayer chickens often exhibit consistent physical characteristics such as black plumage and red combs and wattles, there may be slight variations within the breed. These variations could include differences in size or specific feather patterns.
8. Do Deathlayer chickens require any special care or management? Like any chicken breed, Deathlayers require thoughtful care and management. Providing them with a secure and comfortable coop, access to clean water, a balanced diet, and regular health assessments contribute to their overall well-being and optimal egg-laying performance.
9. Can Deathlayer chickens tolerate various climates? Deathlayer chickens can adapt to a range of climates, but they tend to thrive in moderate conditions. Providing adequate shelter, protection from extreme temperatures, and appropriate ventilation are crucial to ensuring their comfort and health.
10. Are Deathlayer chickens recognized by poultry organizations? Yes, Deathlayer chickens are recognized by some poultry organizations and might even have specific breed standards. However, their recognition and popularity can vary depending on geographical regions and the focus of different poultry groups.
11. Do Deathlayer chickens make good pets? Indeed, Deathlayer chickens can make wonderful pets due to their gentle nature and distinctive appearance. Their compatibility with family settings and their ability to provide a continuous supply of fresh eggs contribute to their appeal as pets.
Final Thoughts
The continuous egg-laying prowess of Deathlayer chickens is an undeniable advantage, ensuring a consistent supply of fresh eggs throughout their lives. This sets them apart from many other breeds that experience declines in egg production with age. The historical significance they carry adds a layer of depth to their presence on your homestead. Raising Deathlayers is not just about egg production; it’s about becoming a steward of tradition and preserving a lineage that spans generations.
Temperament is another defining factor that sets Deathlayers apart. Their gentle and adaptable nature makes them not only reliable egg producers but also delightful companions. Their low-maintenance requirements further add to their appeal, allowing even novice poultry keepers to experience the joys of raising chickens without excessive effort.
In a world dominated by commercial breeds, choosing Deathlayer chickens contributes to the conservation of genetic diversity and heritage within the poultry landscape. By selecting this unique breed, you’re making a statement about your commitment to tradition, sustainability, and the intrinsic value of rare breeds.
In the grand symphony of poultry-keeping choices, Deathlayer chickens play a harmonious melody that resonates with history, productivity, and a sense of purpose. As you consider the options for your flock, their exceptional benefits make them a melody worth adding to your homestead’s chorus.
