Question 1

How can I tell a Barred Rock from a Dominique?

Accepted Answer

Barred Rocks have a single upright comb and sharp parallel black-white bars, while Dominiques have a flat rose comb and irregular "cuckoo" barring

Question 2

At what age do Barred Rocks start laying eggs?

Accepted Answer

Most start laying at 18-22 weeks, with some beginning as early as 16 weeks.

Question 3

How many eggs do Barred Rocks lay per year?

Accepted Answer

Expect 200-280 large brown eggs annually (4-5 per week), with heritage strains at 200-220 and production strains at 250-280.

Question 4

Are Barred Rock roosters aggressive?

Accepted Answer

Temperament varies by individual—some are protective but calm, others can be territorial, though hens are consistently friendly.

Question 5

Do Barred Rocks go broody?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the strain; some rarely go broody while others do 1-2 times yearly and make excellent mothers.

Question 6

Can Barred Rocks tolerate cold weather?

Accepted Answer

Yes, they're exceptionally cold-hardy with dense feathering and continue laying through winter with proper care.

Question 7

How long do Barred Rock chickens live?

Accepted Answer

Average lifespan is 6-8 years, with some reaching 10-12 years; productive laying continues for 3-5 years.

Question 8

What's the difference between Plymouth Rock and Barred Rock?

Accepted Answer

Plymouth Rock is the breed name, while Barred Rock is the most common color variety of that breed.

Question 9

Are Barred Rocks good for beginners?

Accepted Answer

Yes, they're consistently ranked in the top 5 beginner breeds due to their hardiness, predictability, and forgiving nature.

Question 10

How much space do Barred Rocks need?

Accepted Answer

Minimum 4-5 sq ft per bird in the coop and 8-10 sq ft in the run; more space is better for these large-bodied birds.

Question 11

What color eggs do Barred Rocks lay?

Accepted Answer

Light to medium brown eggs, sometimes described as pinkish-brown, with uniform color and no speckles.

Question 12

Are Barred Rocks noisy?

Accepted Answer

Moderate noise level with loud egg songs when laying; roosters crow frequently starting before dawn.

Question 13

Can Barred Rocks fly?

Accepted Answer

Yes, they can fly 4-6 feet when motivated, so six-foot fencing reliably contains them.

Question 14

What should I feed Barred Rocks?

Accepted Answer

Adults need 16-18% protein layer feed (1/4-1/3 lb daily), chicks need 18-24% starter, plus free-choice oyster shell and fresh water.

Question 15

Are Barred Rocks good meat birds?

Accepted Answer

Decent dual-purpose with 5-7 lb dressed weight, but modern meat breeds outproduce them significantly.

Question 16

How do I sex Barred Rock chicks?

Accepted Answer

Males have large white head spots and lighter orange legs; females have smaller defined spots and charcoal grey legs (90-95% accuracy).

Question 17

Are Barred Rocks suitable for urban settings?

Accepted Answer

Hens work well in urban areas with moderate noise levels, but roosters are unsuitable due to frequent crowing.

May 7, 2025

How to Choose the Right Chicken Breed: 7-Factor Guide