This took place in the New England states-chiefly in Massachusetts and New Hampshire from which it takes its name. They possess a deep, broad body, grow feathers very rapidly, are prone to go broody and make good mothers. Most pin feathers are a reddish buff in color and, therefore, do not detract from the carcass appearance very much. The color is a medium to light red and often fades in the sunshine. These good, medium sized meat chickens have fair egg laying ability.
Some strains lay eggs of a dark brown shell color.
New Hampshires are competitive and aggressive. They were initially used in the Chicken of Tomorrow contests, which led the way for the modern broiler industry. Oklahoma State University Board of Regents. All rights reserved.