As a chicken enthusiast I can confidently say that adding a Sapphire Olive Egger to your flock will be a decision you won’t regret. This hybrid breed offers a perfect blend of beauty productivity and a charming personality. These chickens are truly easy on the eyes with their stunning grey and silver plumage that can brighten up any yard. But it’s not just their appearance that makes them stand out. Sapphire Olive Eggers are incredible egg layers producing up to 290 X-Large olive eggs per year. The egg colors from olive to green create a colorful egg basket that adds a touch of elegance to your egg carton.
Raising these birds in your backyard is a rewarding experience. They adapt well to various climates especially the warmer ones and their temperament is docile yet active making them fun to interact with. With a mature weight of 6-7 lbs they are hardy in both cold and heat and their comb type is a single comb. As a practical layer this breed will quickly become one of the most reliable additions to your flock offering high production rates and an abundance of olive green eggs.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chicken keeper these birds are a delightful choice. Sapphire Olive Eggers are a wonderful way to add a unique flair to your poultry collection and make your mornings even brighter.
Sapphire Olive Egger Breed History
The Sapphire Olive Egger chicken is a relatively new breed born from careful crossbreeding of blue egg laying breeds like the Ameraucana and Araucana and dark brown egg layers such as Marans and Welsummers. This hybrid breed was developed with the goal of producing unique eggs specifically olive green eggs that add a colorful touch to any egg basket.
Its history is a fascinating journey that began with the introduction of blue eggs into the chicken world, alongside the need to create a bird that could adapt to different climates while still producing gorgeous eggs.
While the exact origin of the Sapphire Olive Egger is unclear its development is rooted in the pursuit of beautiful colorful eggs. It has been created through generations of careful crossbreeding and has gained popularity due to its distinctive egg color and the charming personalities of the birds.
The breed combines the best traits of multiple chickens including the Sapphire Gem and Blue Plymouth Rock which are known for their vibrant plumage and egg laying abilities.
Though not officially recognized by the American Poultry Association as of 2023 the Olive Egger has quickly become a favorite among chicken keepers. The birds are cherished for their hardiness adapting well to both cold and warm climates and their unique egg production.
These chickens have also become a staple in many backyard flocks thanks to their reliable egg output and friendly temperament making them a beloved addition for those who want something special in their flock.
Are Sapphire Olive Egger Chickens A Heritage or Hybrid Breed?
The Sapphire Olive Egger chickens are a hybrid breed created by crossbreeding different types of chickens. They are not considered a heritage breed because they do not meet the standardized characteristics required by organizations like the American Poultry Association (APA).
Unlike traditional breeds Sapphire Olive Eggers come with a variety of traits such as unique color and comb types and some inconsistent features like ear coloring or size. This is due to their hybrid status where offspring may show a range of genetic characteristics making them distinct and unpredictable in appearance.
These birds are loved for their hybrid vigor meaning they tend to be hardier and healthier than purebred chickens. While they may not adhere to a strict breed standard they are cherished for their unique traits which include beautiful green eggs and charming personalities.
The genetics of Sapphire Olive Eggers give them a potential for robust egg production but their features can sometimes vary. This inconsistent nature is what makes them so special and a favorite among backyard chicken enthusiasts.
Sapphire Olive Egger Breed Appearance
The Sapphire Olive Egger chicken is truly stunning with its unique coloring. These birds usually have shades of blue grey black and brown giving them a varied yet consistent appearance.
Their feather color can range from a beautiful lavender hue to blue often with intricate patterns or lacing. The skin color typically varies from white to yellow depending on the parent breeds.
One of the most interesting features of the Olive Egger is their diverse appearance. Some birds sport feathered legs while others may have a single comb or pea comb. The beak of these chickens is often dark adding to their overall striking look. These characteristics make the Sapphire Olive Egger an eye catching addition to any flock.
5 Advantages of Sapphire Olive Egger Chicken
- Unique Egg Color: They lay olive-colored eggs which are not only beautiful but also very unique.
- Cold Hardiness: They can survive in cold winters because of their natural winter coat.
- Friendly Temperament: They are very friendly and gentle making them great for families and children.
- Dual Purpose: They are good for both egg and meat production with soft and tasty meat.
- Hardy and Adaptable: They adapt well to different climates and are tough and versatile.
5 Disadvantages of Sapphire Olive Egger Chicken
- Low Broodiness: Sapphire Olive Eggers are not very broody meaning they aren’t the best at hatching eggs if you’re looking for that.
- Potential Aggression: While they are usually friendly sometimes they can show aggression towards other breeds or new chickens in the flock.
- Requires Extra Care in Extreme Weather: They are hardy but in extreme cold or heat they may need extra attention and protection.
- Slower Egg Production in Winter: Egg production tends to slow down during the winter months especially in colder climates.
- Not the Best for Meat Production: Although they are dual purpose they aren’t as meaty as some other breeds so they aren’t ideal for meat production.
How Much Do Sapphire Olive Egger Chickens Weigh?
Sapphire Olive Egger chickens are considered medium size birds. On average hens weigh around 5-5.7 pounds while roosters typically weigh about 6-6.5 pounds. This puts them in the 5-6 lbs range for hens and 6-7 lbs for roosters making them an average sized chicken overall.
Average Lifespan of Sapphire Olive Egger Chickens
The average lifespan of Sapphire Olive Egger chickens falls between 5 to 8 years when kept in backyard confinement. This is considered above average as most chickens typically live between 3 to 7 years.
Under optimal conditions they may live even longer showing the potential for a healthy and long life when provided with the right care and environment.
Sapphire Olive Egger Chicken Egg Color
Sapphire Olive Egger chickens are known for their unique egg color which can range from a light green to a deeper vibrant olive shade. The intensity of the olive color depends on several factors such as genetics diet and stress levels. Additionally the age of the hen can cause the color to fade slightly over time.
These eggs can often resemble those of Blue Easter Egger eggs but they tend to have a more distinct olive green hue. The egg color can vary based on the parent breeds and the individual chicken’s genetics making each egg unique. The shades range from medium green to a more muted green and the overall color will depend on the specific characteristics of the Olive Eggers.
It’s not uncommon for some Olive Eggers to lay eggs that are so similar to the Green Oliver Egger Egg that it can be hard to tell them apart.
How Many Eggs Do Sapphire Olive Egger Chickens Lay?
Sapphire Olive Egger chickens begin egg production a little later than most other breeds typically starting between 20 to 24 weeks (5 to 6 months). In their first year these chickens can lay up to 208 eggs with proper diet and care.
They generally produce 3 to 4 medium to large eggs per week often in beautiful shades of green. However as the chickens age egg production will naturally decrease by around 10 to 15% per year. Eventually they may stop laying eggs altogether.
The proper diet and care are key to ensuring they lay consistently especially during their first year when they are most productive. It’s important to remember that while they may lay green eggs the exact shade can vary adding a lovely touch to your egg collection.
Breeding Sapphire Olive Egger Chickens
When breeding Sapphire Olive Egger chickens it’s important to understand their genetics. They are a result of crossing heritage breeds with hybrid breeds which means their offspring may not always look the same.
For example if you breed two hybrids of the same breed you’ll likely get a mixed breed chick. To ensure pure Sapphire Olive Egger Chicks you should breed a pure bred rooster with a pure bred hen.
The genetics play a significant role in determining the egg color and plumage. These chickens inherit the Blue egg gene (O) from Ameraucana or Cream Legbar parents while the dark brown egg gene comes from the Marans or Welsummer parent. The blue plumage genes are inherited from breeds like Sapphire Gem or Blue Plymouth Rock.
However breeding these birds requires careful attention to avoid health issues that can lead to unhealthy chicks.
Are Sapphire Olive Egger Chickens Broody?
Sapphire Olive Egger Chickens are not typically known for being broody. In fact we’ve had two hens for over two years and neither has ever shown any signs of being broody. These chickens seem more focused on laying their beautiful green eggs rather than nesting which can be a positive trait for those who want consistent egg production without worrying about broodiness.
Are Sapphire Olive Egger Chickens Hardy?
Sapphire Olive Egger chickens are known for being quite cold hardy and heat tolerant making them a versatile breed for different climates. They can handle both sunny weather and hot weather but they still need shade to stay comfortable in the heat.
During the winter they need to be kept cool with access to clean water to stay healthy. Even in colder temperatures these chickens do not typically require a heater or brooder unless there is extreme cold. However you should always check for signs of frostbite on their combs wattles and feet to make sure they stay in good condition.
With the right care including ensuring that they are protected from extreme temperatures these chickens are a resilient addition to any flock. Their cold hardy nature and ability to withstand hot weather make them a reliable choice for chicken keepers in varying climates.
Common Sapphire Olive Egger Chicken Health Risks
Olive Eggers are generally healthy chickens but they can face some common health risks. Respiratory infections are a typical issue which can arise due to poor ventilation in the coop. If the airflow isn’t proper these infections can spread quickly. Additionally egg binding can occur especially if the chicken’s calcium intake is insufficient leading to distress and discomfort.
If you’re raising younger birds it’s important to provide them with vitamins in their water as a precaution. This helps prevent deficiencies that might occur while they are integrating into the flock. Besides egg binding external parasites like mites and lice can also cause trouble. Regular dust baths and inspections are essential to prevent these pests from harming the chickens.
To manage internal parasites a proper deworming schedule should be followed. This schedule can be set up with the guidance of a veterinarian. Keeping an eye on the birds for any signs of parasites or other health problems and taking the right precautions will ensure your Olive Eggers remain healthy and hardy in the long run.
Are Olive Egger Chicken Good For Meat Production?
Sapphire Olive Egger chickens are not primarily bred for meat production but can still serve as dual purpose birds. While they are medium sized birds they offer a decent amount of meat though it is not as abundant as that of dedicated meat breeds. Their flavor is generally considered good but not as rich as that of breeds specifically raised for meat such as commercial meat breeds.
However it’s important to note that these birds grow slower compared to faster growing meat breeds. As small birds they are not ideal for those looking to produce large quantities of meat but they can still provide a modest supply for a smaller flock. So if you’re looking for a dual purpose chicken that offers both eggs and meat Sapphire Olive Eggers are a good choice.
Are Sapphire Olive Egger Chicken Noisy?
Sapphire Olive Egger chickens are generally considered a noisy breed. While hens are relatively quiet the roosters tend to be much more vocal often crow loudly which can be disruptive in certain areas.
Despite this they can still be a good candidate for urban farms and populated neighborhoods as long as they are well managed. In my experience our hens have been quiet and I’ve noticed they tend to be just as calm as our Black Sex Links. However if you live in a densely populated area you may want to reconsider having roosters as their noise might be more noticeable.
Sapphire Olive Egger Chicken Temperament
The Sapphire Olive Egger chickens are known for being quite friendly and docile. They are generally mild making them a great choice for families especially if you have children around. These chickens are also curious and interactive often enjoying the company of humans.
However they can be a bit skittish and flighty especially if they are not handled regularly. In my experience their rooster is usually not aggressive but they can become a little more so when there are more roosters than hens. To keep the peace it’s best to maintain a rooster to hen ratio of 1 rooster for every 12 hens. This ensures they aren’t too aggressive with each other.
Even though Sapphire Olive Egger chickens are not prone to broodiness or aggression their temperament can still vary slightly. If they feel threatened or are not accustomed to people they may become more nervous. Overall they are quite well suited for a family farm or small urban setup where they can be regularly handled and treated gently.
Sapphire Olive Egger Chicken Housing Requirements
When housing your Sapphire Olive Eggers it’s important to provide adequate space for their health and comfort. As an average sized breed each bird requires at least 4 square feet in the coop. You’ll also need to ensure that there is enough height for them to move comfortably.
The coop should be secure from predators and have limited drafts while remaining unheated to avoid temperature extremes. For the run each bird needs around 8-10 square feet to stay happy and healthy. The space should have good airflow and during hot sunny weather it’s important to give them access to a roofed run that stays shady and cooler especially when temperatures reach 90 degrees or higher.
For proper housing make sure you have enough roosting space with about 8-10 inches of roosting bar per bird. Additionally provide nesting boxes with 1 box per 3-4 hens so they have a safe place to lay eggs. Offering enough space for productivity is key to keeping your Sapphire Olive Eggers healthy and stress free.
Feeding and Nutrition Tips for Sapphire Olive Eggers
Sapphire Olive Egger chickens thrive on a balanced diet to stay healthy and productive. They should have access to high quality commercial feed designed for laying hens which provides the essential nutrients like protein calcium and vitamins.
A diet with 16-18% protein is ideal to support their growth and egg production. Along with the feed always provide access to clean water to keep them hydrated. Offering occasional treats like fruits vegetables and grains can be a fun way to enrich their diet but these should not replace their regular feed.
To ensure strong eggshells it’s important to add a source of calcium to their diet. You can offer oyster shells or crushed eggshells as a supplement. Sapphire Olive Eggers also benefit from free range time where they can forage for natural food such as insects and grasses.
This helps them stay active and get additional nutrients. Always make sure that the chickens have access to fresh food and are not overfed as obesity can lead to health issues and reduced egg production.
Winter Warriors
The Sapphire Olive Egger chickens are truly winter warriors especially when it comes to surviving the harsh winters of Minnesota. These chickens are well equipped to handle frigid winters and can survive the cold temperatures without much trouble.
Thanks to their thick feathers they naturally have a built in winter coat that keeps them cozy. During the cold snow months these chickens are seen fluffing up their soft feathers and sporting puffed out cheeks which make them even more adorable.
From personal experience watching them thrive in freezing conditions is a reminder of how resilient they are. They don’t seem to mind the snow at all and their fluffy appearance in the winter is simply charming.
The Sapphire Olive Eggers are truly a unique breed perfect for those living in colder climates where other chickens may struggle. Their ability to withstand the cold while remaining active and happy makes them a great addition to any flock during those chilly months.
The Beauty of Olive Eggs
One of the main reasons people love Olive Eggers is the stunning, olive colored eggs they lay. These eggs bring a rich depth to the egg basket making it even more colorful and appealing. Personally I find the gorgeous speckled olive eggs from our Olive Egger to be my favorite egg of the day.
While the taste of the eggs is similar the colors come from a natural dye that the chicken applies to the eggshell just before laying. Each breed of chicken has its own unique color and when you have a diversified flock it means your egg basket will be full of beautiful colorful eggs.
Where My Olive Eggers Came From
My Olive Eggers came from Hoover’s Hatchery known for their high quality chickens. I remember the excitement when the mail arrived bringing the tiny chicks safely in a secure package.
As soon as I opened the basket I could see that the little ones were thriving, full of energy and curiosity. Each chick had its own unique personality adding charm to my yard and making them stand out as members of my growing flock.
I’ve been fascinated by how beautiful these chickens are with their vibrant feathers and distinct look. They produce olive eggs adding a touch of uniqueness to my egg collection. Watching them grow and integrate into the flock has been such a rewarding experience and it’s been amazing to see them all flourish. Every time I gather eggs from the coop I feel a sense of pride knowing they came from such a special breed.
Cost Considerations and Role in Small-Scale Farming
When adding Sapphire Olive Egger chickens to your flock there are a few important costs to factor in. The price of chicks typically ranges from $5 to $10 depending on the source while adult birds generally cost between $20 and $40 each. In addition to the initial cost of the birds you’ll need to budget for ongoing expenses like housing feed and other essential supplies which can vary based on the size of your flock and your location.
Housing costs depend on whether you build your own coop or purchase a pre-made one. Feed prices can vary based on the type of food you choose, and additional supplies such as bedding and healthcare will impact your overall budget. Keep in mind that some of these expenses like feed and bedding will recur so they should be considered when planning for the long-term care of your flock.
For small-scale farmers and homesteaders, the Sapphire Olive Egger chicken breed is a great choice. These chickens are highly adaptable thriving in both free-range and confined environments, making them perfect for various farming setups. They are known for their efficient feed to egg conversion helping farmers get the most out of their feed. Additionally the unique olive colored eggs they produce can be sold at premium prices providing an extra income stream for small-scale farmers.
On my own small farm these birds have become a reliable source of fresh eggs and income. They do well in my homestead where they enjoy free-range time but are also comfortable in a more controlled environment. Raising Sapphire Olive Eggers offers the benefit of having chickens that thrive in different settings while providing premium eggs that stand out in the market. This breed is perfect for anyone looking for a balance of practicality and profitability in small-scale farming.
Comparing with Other Dual-Purpose Breeds
When comparing the Sapphire Olive Egger to other dual purpose breeds such as the Rhode Island Red Orpington and Sussex it’s clear that this breed offers unique benefits.
While the Sapphire Olive Egger is considered good in both egg production and meat quality it stands out with its beautiful unique eggs that can fetch premium prices. In contrast the Rhode Island Red is known for its high egg production and excellent meat quality making it an all rounder.
However it doesn’t always match the Sapphire Olive Egger in terms of egg color variety.
The Orpington and Sussex breeds are also good for dual purpose farming with Orpingtons being more renowned for their excellent meat quality. On the other hand the Sussex is a moderate producer of eggs but still remains a strong contender in small farms.
From my experience the Sapphire Olive Egger excels when you need a breed that thrives in moderate conditions and produces high quality eggs while still being adaptable to various farming styles.
Why You Should Add Olive Eggers to Your Flock
If you’re looking for a fun friendly chicken to join your flock the Olive Egger is an excellent choice. Not only will they bring joy and entertainment to your yard but they will also give you unique eggs with a beautiful splash of color.
Their friendly personality makes them easy to handle and they are a great addition to any small farm or backyard setup. These chickens aren’t just good for their beauty their eggs are a treat too making them a perfect fit for anyone who loves variety.
With their unique appearance and fun nature Olive Eggers will stand out in your flock providing both aesthetic and practical benefits. Whether you’re looking for a companionable bird or want to add some color to your egg basket these chickens will not disappoint.
I’ve found them to be a perfect balance of friendly temperament and entertainment, making them a joy to raise and a wonderful addition to any chicken family.
Are Sapphire Olive Egger Chickens Right For You?
If you are a beginner looking for a chicken with cold hardiness and heat tolerance then the Sapphire Olive Egger might be a good choice. These chickens are known for their friendly personalities and their ability to adapt to various climates.
They are a fun addition to your flock bringing entertainment and joy to your yard. Not only do they have a unique appearance but they also lay colorful eggs such as green eggs making them stand out from other breeds.
However it’s important to consider the purpose of having chickens. While Sapphire Olive Eggers produce colorful eggs they are not the best egg producers and yield less than average eggs per year.
If you’re specifically looking for a meat chicken or a heritage breed you might want to explore other options. But if you’re after a charming bird that adds both beauty and splash to your flock these chickens are definitely worth considering.
FAQs About Sapphire Olive Egger
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How long do Sapphire Olive Eggers live?
Sapphire Olive Eggers can live between 5-8 years with proper care. Their lifespan depends on health and environment.
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Do Sapphire Olive Eggers lay colorful eggs?
Yes they lay olive colored eggs which are unique and highly sought after for their distinctive hue.
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Are Sapphire Olive Eggers good for beginners?
These chickens are cold hardy heat tolerant and have friendly personalities making them a great option for beginners.
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Do Sapphire Olive Eggers require special care in winter?
They are cold hardy but it’s essential to provide a draft free coop and monitor them for frostbite on combs.
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Can Sapphire Olive Eggers fly?
While they have limited flying abilities they can clear a 4 foot fence so make sure the coop is secure.
Conclusion
The Sapphire Olive Egger chicken breed is a fantastic addition to any flock offering both beautiful and unique olive colored eggs and a friendly demeanor. Their cold hardy nature and heat tolerance make them suitable for a variety of climates while their low maintenance needs make them perfect for both beginners and experienced poultry keepers.
Whether you’re looking for a chicken that lays distinctive eggs or adds character to your yard the Sapphire Olive Egger ticks all the boxes.
In addition to their striking appearance and egg production these chickens are also fun to have around providing entertainment and joy for families with children. While not the strongest egg producers their unique egg color and charming personality more than make up for it.
If you’re looking for a chicken that combines beauty function and friendliness the Sapphire Olive Egger is an excellent choice for your flock.
