The productive Bleu de Lande
At De Meidoornhoeve, we welcome you to discover our beautiful Bleu de Lande laying hens. These grey-blue ladies are loved for their exceptional laying quality and their calm, friendly character. This chicken is an excellent choice for those who want to count on fresh eggs every day.
The productive Bleu de Lande
The Bleu de Lande is not a classic purebred chicken, but a hybrid layer—a carefully selected cross of different breeds developed with one clear goal: a productive, robust, and friendly laying hen that feels at home in the unpredictable West European climate.
Just like the Isa Brown and the black-and-white Harco, the Bleu de Lande belongs to the group of modern hybrid layers. The difference lies in the grey-blue feather colour that makes her instantly recognisable. An elegant alternative to the classic brown laying hen, without compromising on productivity.
Characteristics of the Bleu de Lande
The Bleu de Lande is a medium-sized chicken weighing around 2.5 kg, with a striking grey-blue plumage that varies from dark blue to silver-grey. The head and neck are often darker in colour than the rest of the body, giving her an elegant appearance. She has a red single comb, red wattles, and dark legs.
Due to her weight, she is not a natural flyer, so a one-metre fence is usually sufficient to keep her within your garden. She is naturally calm and social, and becomes tame quickly. This also makes her an excellent choice for families with children or for those just starting out with keeping chickens.
Bleu de Lande laying hens at De Meidoornhoeve
At De Meidoornhoeve, we pay great attention to the care of our animals. Our *Bleu de Lande chickens* receive the best living conditions and nutrition, ensuring they arrive at your home in top condition. Visit us in Oostnieuwkerke for more information. We are happy to help you choose the right number and the right combination for your garden.
Top egg production
What truly sets the Bleu de Lande apart is her laying quality. She lays up to 280 large brown eggs per year, averaging 5 to 6 per week during the peak season. Furthermore, she remains active during the winter months, when many other chickens significantly reduce their production.
By comparison: a white Leghorn lays larger quantities of white eggs, while a Sussex is known for her balance between laying and companionship. The Bleu de Lande sits right in between: plenty of eggs, a lovely character, and an aesthetically distinctive appearance.
A calm companion in your garden
Bleu de Lande chickens are not prone to broodiness, which makes them extra suitable for those who primarily aim for egg production and do not wish to hatch chicks. They love foraging, enjoy living in a group, and can live perfectly alongside other laying breeds such as the Sussex layer.
They are hardy and require little extra care: a dry and well-ventilated chicken coop, sufficient space to forage, and high-quality feed are enough for a long and happy chicken life.
Frequently asked questions about Bleu de Lande
How many eggs does a Bleu de Lande lay per year?
A Bleu de Lande lays up to 260 large brown eggs per year, or an average of 5 to 6 eggs per week during the peak season. A notable feature: she continues to lay actively during the winter months.
How heavy is a Bleu de Lande?
An adult Bleu de Lande hen weighs around 2.5 kg. She is medium-sized and slightly sturdier than the common brown laying hen.
What colour is a Bleu de Lande?
The Bleu de Lande has a grey-blue plumage ranging from dark blue to silver-grey. The head and neck are usually darker than the rest of the body, with a red comb and red wattles.
Is the Bleu de Lande a purebred chicken?
No. The Bleu de Lande is a hybrid layer, a carefully selected cross of different breeds, bred for productivity and hardiness. It is the grey-blue counterpart to the classic brown laying hen.
Is the Bleu de Lande suitable for beginners?
Yes. She is calm, social, and becomes tame quickly, making her excellently suited for those just starting with chickens or for families with children.
Is the Bleu de Lande winter-hardy?
Yes. The Bleu de Lande is exceptionally winter-hardy and continues to lay eggs during the colder months, when many other chickens significantly reduce their production.
Does a Bleu de Lande get broody?
No, the Bleu de Lande is not prone to broodiness. This is an advantage for those who primarily aim for egg production and do not want to hatch chicks. Broody chickens temporarily stop laying eggs.
Which other laying breeds can I combine a Bleu de Lande with?
The Bleu de Lande pairs well with other calm laying breeds such as the Harco, Sussex, or cuckoo-coloured layer. Avoid combinations with very dominant or nervous breeds.
