Jersey Giant

The largest recognized chicken breed in the U.S., the Jersey Giant was developed in Burlington County, N.J., in the late 1890s. Bred to be both a meat bird and an egg layer, the Jersey Giant comes in two recognized colors: black and white.

Weight: 8 to 10 pounds

Urban Uses: Jersey Giants do well in cold weather and lay three eggs per week. They are also a good meat bird.

Egg Size: Large

Second Thoughts: These large chickens require a lot of room in their coop. If provided enough space, they tolerate confinement.

Breed Association: National Jersey Giant Club, American Poultry Association