When I first started with chickens I thought there were only a few basic types to choose from. But as I learned more about the world of poultry I discovered just how many different breeds there are. One breed that caught my attention was the Sapphire Splash a beautiful mix of Sapphire and Splash genetics.
These chickens are often compared to their more popular relative the Sapphire Gem known for their stunning blue or lavender feathers. While many people describe them as grey or light grey their overall appearance is truly gorgeous and unique.
Not only are Sapphire Splash chickens beautiful to look at but they also thrive in a homestead environment. They are easy to find and care for which makes them a favorite among backyard poultry keepers.
Despite their striking looks they are just as gentle and kind as their Sapphire Gem cousins. They lay extra-large eggs and make a wonderful addition to any flock. With over 1,600 chicken breeds recognized around the world the Sapphire Splash definitely stands out as one of the most beautiful and unique breeds offering both beauty and excellent egg production for those looking to add variety to their backyard poultry.
Sapphire Splash Chicken Breed History
The Sapphire Splash chicken breed is a relatively new addition to the world of poultry, with its origin tied to the Czech Republic. While much about the breed’s exact history remains unknown it is speculated that they are related to the Sapphire Gems a breed that has sparked much interest among poultry enthusiasts.
Some believe the Sapphire Splash is a descendant or even a cousin to the Sapphire Gems but with a few key differences. Unlike their rare relatives the Sapphire Splash breed is far easier to acquire and has found its place in many homesteads throughout America.
These chickens are often seen as a knock off or rebel breed compared to the more established Sapphire Gems which are known for their beautiful appearance but are harder to find. However the Sapphire Splash has gained attention for its striking color and egg production abilities becoming a favorite among backyard chicken owners. They are admired for their vibrant plumage which resembles the colors of Blue Plymouth Rock and Barred Plymouth Rock and even shows a hint of Old Andalusians in their appearance.
Though they have quickly gained in popularity the Sapphire Splash has not yet been accepted by the American Poultry Association as of 2023. Their mysterious history only adds to the intrigue but they are certainly making their mark in the poultry world with many owners appreciating both their beauty and their hardworking nature when it comes to egg production.
Sapphire Splash Chickens Heritage or Hybrid?
The Sapphire Splash chicken is a new breed that has sparked some debate about whether it should be classified as a heritage breed or a hybrid. While heritage breeds are typically able to breed naturally the Sapphire Splash is considered a hybrid by many as it is a cross between different poultry breeds.
The exact origin of this chicken is not entirely clear but its hybrid nature makes it different from more traditional heritage breeds which have been around for generations. Despite the debate the Sapphire Splash is quickly gaining popularity for its unique appearance and friendly temperament.
Sapphire Splash Chicken Appearance
The Sapphire Splash chicken is easily recognizable by its striking grey and white plumage decorated with beautiful dark patches that give the breed its signature splashes. One of the breed’s unique features is the single comb which is typically red along with red wattles and white earlobes that add to its visual appeal.
Another interesting characteristic is their bare legs which make them stand apart from many other chickens. They also have 4 toes adding to their unique appearance and making them quite special in any flock.
How Much Do Sapphire Splash Chickens Weigh?
When it comes to the Sapphire Splash chicken breed you’ll notice they are a bit larger than many other breeds. The roosters typically weigh around 7 pounds while the hens are slightly smaller coming in closer to 5 pounds. Interestingly the average weight of a rooster is usually about 6 pounds with the hen tipping the scales at approximately 5.7 pounds.
The size of these chickens makes them slightly larger than other chicken breeds. Whether you’re raising them for their beautiful plumage or as part of your flock their weight plays a role in their overall sized appearance. From my personal experience these chickens are not just a treat to the eyes but also a good option if you’re looking for birds with a solid size.
Sapphire Splash Chicken Average Lifespan
The Sapphire Splash chickens typically have an average lifespan of 6 to 8 years when raised in backyard confinement which is considered above average for most other chickens that generally live between 3 and 7 years. With optimal conditions it’s possible that they might live longer though as a young breed there is still no definitive data available on their maximum lifespan. From my experience, these chickens seem resilient, and the potential for them to live longer under ideal conditions is an exciting prospect for any chicken keeper.
Sapphire Splash Chicken Egg Color
When it comes to egg production Sapphire Splash chickens begin laying eggs between 16 weeks and 24 weeks (roughly 4 to 6 months) which is a bit earlier than most other chicken breeds. The color of their eggs can vary with many reports indicating that these chickens lay large brown eggs. However from my own experience and insights shared by other homesteaders the Sapphire Splash tends to lay small cream-colored eggs instead.
While egg production typically starts early it does not last forever. As these chickens age their egg production tends to decrease by around 10 to 15% per year until they eventually stop laying altogether. This is a natural process that happens with most breeds but it’s always interesting to see how individual birds and breeds can differ in their egg production patterns.
5 facts about the Sapphire Splash Chicken
- Sapphire Splash chickens have a unique blue and white feather pattern.
- They lay around 250-300 brown eggs annually.
- The breed is known for its calm and friendly temperament.
- Sapphire Splash chickens are hardy and adapt well to various climates.
- They are low-maintenance and thrive in small to medium-sized spaces.
How Many Eggs Do Sapphire Splash Chickens Lay?
Sapphire Splash chickens are known for being excellent layers producing 5+ eggs per week. These chickens impress in their first year where they can produce up to 300 eggs with the proper diet and care. The eggs they lay are often small and cream-colored, though some may be brown. In addition with the right care they can also lay extra-large eggs that are both delicious and impressive.
A Sapphire Gem hen, part of the Sapphire Splash family can lay an impressive 290 eggs per year. Whether you’re a seasoned backyard chicken owner or a novice, gathering fresh eggs from these chickens will be a rewarding experience.
With Sapphire Splash hens or Sapphire Gems in your flock you don’t have to worry about running out of fresh eggs. Their enthusiastic nature and consistent egg production make them a great choice for anyone looking to keep a steady supply of eggs throughout the year.
Traits of Sapphire Gem Chickens
The Sapphire Gem chicken is highly valued for its egg-laying abilities making it a prized bird among chicken keepers. These chickens are known for their docile nature and friendly disposition which makes them a joy to have around the coop.
Their calm demeanor makes them an ideal choice for families and small flocks. Sapphire Gems are also quite friendly with other breeds and animals forming good relationships within the flock. In my experience despite some initial vicious behavior from my chick she has grown into a much nicer more sweet chicken especially as she matured past the pecking order phase.
These birds come with a single comb and are cold-hardy and heat-hardy which makes them adaptable to various climates. Though they are medium-sized their large egg production often makes them less suited for meat chickens.
Sapphire Gems can be harder to find and tend to be a bit expensive as chicks but they are well worth the investment. I personally got mine from Hoover’s Hatchery which made the mail-ordering process smooth and easy. As for their egg color it adds a unique touch of breed diversity which is why I also appreciate the variation in personalities and coloring among them.
Can Sapphire Splash Chickens Breed?
Sapphire Splash chickens like many other breeds are able to breed naturally without the need for human intervention or insemination. This is true for both the rooster and the hen. However it’s important to note that heritage breeds typically produce the same breed of offspring while hybrid breeds may not.
For example even two hybrids of the same breed can often result in a mixed breed chick. This happens because genetics from their parent breeds come into play making the offspring less predictable. The only way to ensure purebred offspring is to breed a pure-bred rooster with a pure-bred hen.
Due to the fact that the Sapphire Splash breed was specifically designed with certain characteristics there are potential health issues that could arise during breeding. These issues can result in unhealthy chicks especially if the breeding isn’t done properly. It’s always advisable to be cautious and well-informed when breeding your birds to avoid any complications.
Are Sapphire Splash Hens Broody?
Sapphire Splash Chickens are generally not known for being broody. In fact after having our Hen for three years she has seldom shown any tendency to go broody. Unlike some other breeds they don’t frequently try to hatch eggs on their own making them more manageable for those who don’t want the hassle of brooding. This makes them a great choice for people looking for chickens that are productive and easy to care for.
Are Sapphire Splash Chickens Hardy?
Sapphire Splash chickens are known for being a cold hardy breed which makes them suitable for various climates. They are also heat tolerant though they do need shade during sunny and hot weather to stay comfortable. In the winter these chickens still do well if you ensure they have access to clean water and stay warm enough to avoid frostbite on their combs and wattles.
While they may not need a heater or brooder unless the temperatures drop to extreme cold they do appreciate some extra care to stay comfortable during the colder months. Proper weather management and keeping cool in the summer are key to keeping your Sapphire Splash chickens happy and healthy.
Sapphire Splash Chicken Breed Health Risks
Sapphire Splash Chickens are known for their hardiness and the newness of the breed so they are generally not believed to suffer from any notable illnesses. However to keep them healthy and thriving we take certain precautions.
We add vitamins to their water as a preventive measure to avoid any potential deficiencies. This is especially important for younger birds that are still integrating into the flock. Additionally we provide free-choice oyster shells to supply grit and help strengthen the eggshells. If a chicken particularly a strong layer is deficient in calcium it could lead to serious health complications and a shortened lifespan.
Though Sapphire Splash chickens are relatively healthy they can still fall victim to parasites and other general illnesses so it’s always wise to keep a watchful eye on your flock.
Are Sapphire Splash Chickens Good For Meat Production?
Sapphire Splash chickens are of average size so I would say they are not the best for large-scale meat production. While some people use them for dual purposes meaning both eggs and meat their size and characteristics don’t make them ideal for mass meat production.
I’ve noticed that these chickens are also quite rare and since they are a hybrid breed obtaining them can be a bit difficult. Therefore my opinion is that they should not be highly recommended for meat production.
Are Sapphire Splash Chickens Noisy?
Sapphire Splash chickens are generally considered a quiet breed. This makes them a great candidate for urban farms or populated neighborhoods where noise levels need to be kept in check. While hens typically don’t produce an abundance of noise roosters can be louder often crowing in the morning. However they’re still not as noisy as some other breeds making them more suitable for areas with noise restrictions.
In my experience our hen makes some noise but it’s minimal compared to more vocal chickens like Leghorns. She will make sounds as she walks around and explores her surroundings which actually adds to her charm. It’s almost like you can tell what’s going on in her brain based on the little noises she makes making her one of our favorite chickens.
Sapphire Splash Chicken Temperament
The Sapphire Splash chickens are generally known for their friendly and well-mannered nature making them a great choice for families with children. From my experience they are calm and not prone to aggression or broodiness which is ideal for a peaceful coop. These birds tend to be a bit skittish or flighty especially when they are younger but they quickly settle in.
While roosters are rarely aggressive maintaining the right rooster to hen ratio of 1 rooster for every 12 hens helps prevent any possible conflicts between the roosters as they can sometimes be aggressive with each other. Overall these chickens are easy to manage and make a wonderful addition to any flock.
Sapphire Splash Chicken Housing Requirements
When housing your Sapphire Splashes it’s important to ensure they have enough space to stay comfortable and healthy. As an average sized breed they require at least 4 square feet per bird in the coop.
This ensures that each chicken has enough room to move around especially when confined to their coop during cold weather. In winter our Sapphire Splashes didn’t have any issues even when the temperature dropped to -22 degrees thanks to the secure and unheated coop which protected them from predators and limited drafts.
For the enclosed run 8 to 10 square feet per bird is the recommended amount of space for your happy and healthy birds. During hot sunny weather it’s best to provide a roofed run with plenty of airflow and free access to the coop which tends to stay shady and cooler.
This setup was sufficient even on days when the temperature rose upwards of 90 degrees. By ensuring proper space and ventilation your Sapphire Splash chickens will be comfortable throughout the year.
Pros and Cons of Sapphire Splash Chicken Breed
Pros:
- Unique appearance: Sapphire Splash chickens have a striking blue-gray plumage with white or splash-like patterns, making them visually appealing.
- Good egg layers: They produce a steady supply of large brown eggs, ideal for both backyard keepers and small farms.
- Hardy and adaptable: They are known for thriving in various climates, making them suitable for both hot and cold regions.
- Friendly temperament: These chickens are generally docile and get along well with other breeds and humans.
- Low maintenance: They require minimal special care, making them perfect for beginner poultry owners.
Cons:
- Rare breed: They can be harder to find compared to more common chicken breeds.
- Flighty behavior: Some Sapphire Splash chickens may be skittish and nervous around new environments.
- Variable appearance: Offspring may not always have consistent coloration due to the genetics of the breed.
- Moderate size: They may not provide as much meat as larger dual-purpose breeds if raised for both eggs and meat.
- Egg production declines with age: Like most breeds, their egg production reduces significantly after the first couple of years.
FAQs:
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What is the Sapphire Splash Chicken breed?
The Sapphire Splash Chicken is a hardy and friendly breed known for its beautiful blue and white feather pattern. It’s a cross between the Sapphire Gem and other breeds offering great egg-laying abilities.
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Are Sapphire Splash chickens good for beginners?
Yes, Sapphire Splash chickens are calm and docile making them perfect for beginners or small backyard flocks. They are easy to handle and require minimal care.
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How many eggs do Sapphire Splash chickens lay?
Sapphire Splash hens are prolific layers producing around 250-300 medium-sized brown eggs annually. They are reliable layers even in colder climates.
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What is the temperament of Sapphire Splash chickens?
These chickens are friendly and social often enjoying human interaction and being around other birds. They are generally non-aggressive and gentle.
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Do Sapphire Splash chickens require a lot of space?
Sapphire Splash chickens do well in small to medium-sized coops with adequate space to roam. As active birds they thrive with space for free-range activity and pecking around.
Conclusion
The Sapphire Splash Chicken is an excellent choice for backyard poultry keepers seeking a hardy friendly and reliable breed. With their striking blue and white feathers these hybrid chickens not only add beauty to your flock but also ensure consistent egg production making them a practical addition to any farm or garden. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced chicken keeper the Sapphire Splash’s docile nature and ability to adapt to various climates make it a top choice for poultry enthusiasts.
In addition to their calm temperament and visual appeal Sapphire Splash chickens are low-maintenance and thrive in small to medium-sized spaces making them ideal for urban or suburban settings. If you’re looking for a breed that combines both productivity and personality the Sapphire Splash will meet your needs. Start your flock with these beautiful and reliable birds and enjoy fresh eggs and delightful companionship throughout the year.
