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Lavender Orpington

Self-blue (true lavender) Orpington - the rare ghost-gray color variant of the classic Orpington. Same calm temperament and exceptional egg-laying as Buff Orpingtons, in a stunning pale lavender plumage that commands premium prices.

About this breed

Quick facts: Lavender Orpington

OriginUnited Kingdom and USA - early 2000s
Conservation statusWatch (rare color variety)
Adult weightRoosters 10 lb, Hens 8 lb
Size classStandard
Eggs per year~200
Egg colorBrown
Egg sizeLarge
BroodinessHigh
Cold hardinessExcellent
Heat toleranceFair
Noise levelQuiet
Flight tendencyCalm/won't fly
Beginner friendlyYes

History & origin

The 'lavender' (true self-blue) gene is recessive and was deliberately bred into Orpingtons in the early 2000s, primarily in the UK. Unlike the Blue Orpington (single dilution of black, which produces blue/black/splash on a 1:2:1 ratio), lavender breeds true - two lavender parents produce all lavender offspring. This made the variety explode in popularity among small-flock owners. Not yet APA-recognized; some color faults (feather curling, brittle shafts) are still being bred out.

Personality & temperament

calmfriendlybroodygentle

Best for: eggs, show, pet, broody mother

Husbandry & care

Indoor coop space4.5 sq ft per bird
Run space12 sq ft per bird
Roost bar10 in per bird

Space: Identical to Buff Orpington. Heat-sensitive.

Feeding: Layer feed 16%. Lavender plumage stays brightest with low-melanin feed (no kelp).

Health: Lavender gene linked to feather quality issues - choose breeders with at least 3 generations of clean stock.

Climate: Zones 3-7. Same as Buff Orpington.

Buying tips

  • True lavender breeds true. If a 'lavender' breeder's offspring vary in color, they're selling Blue Orpingtons.
  • Look for clean white shafts and silky feather quality - brittle feathers are the lavender-gene weak link.
  • Hatching eggs are easier to ship and cheaper than live birds for this rare variety.
  • Expect 3-5x the price of Buff Orpington pricing for true lavender.

Did you know?

  • 'Lavender' technically refers to the dun gene - a single-locus dilution of black.
  • Not yet APA-recognized; in the standardization process.
  • Half of all FastPoultry searches for 'lavender chicken' end up here.
  • Pair pricing of $500-$1500 per breeder pair is normal.

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