Bjurholm chicken
(Gallus gallus) Bjurholm chickens are Sweden’s northernmost native chicken breed. The breed was officially recognized in 2013.
A small remnant of the previously common small native chicken breeds in Västerbotten was found by chance in the village of Bjurholm in 2011. There, the chickens had been kept on the same farm for 120 years without any other chickens being introduced into the flock.
The down part of the body feathers is relatively large and the underdown is well developed, which indicates a long adaptation to cold climates.
Belongs to
Order Galliformes
Family
Pheasants (Phasianidae)
Weight
Rooster 2 kg, Hen 1.5 kg
Lifespan
Normally up to 16 years, though older age records have been noted
Mating season
Occurs in May-June
Gestation period
30-33 days
Incubation period
approximately 21 days, and the Bjurholm hen’s eggs weigh about 45-50 grams