Ancona Chickens: The New Zealand Keeper's Guide
~200 white eggs a year · Light (2-2.5 kg) · active, frugal white-egg layer
The Ancona is a hardy, active Mediterranean breed, mottled black with white tips, related to the Leghorn and similarly economical. It is uncommon in New Zealand but a good white-egg layer for a keeper who likes a busy, self-reliant bird.
Eggs and laying
Around 200 white eggs a year from a frugal, weatherproof bird that lays steadily for several seasons.
Temperament
Active, alert and flighty, more independent than a hybrid and a strong flier. Not a lap hen, but a superb forager.
New Zealand climate fit
Their Mediterranean origins suit the warm north and hot summers, and the mottled plumage hides them from hawks well. The large comb can frostbite in hard southern frosts.
Care notes
Light eaters and excellent free-rangers that find much of their own food. A tall run or clipped wing keeps them home, as they fly well.
More breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Anconas good layers?
Yes, around 200 white eggs a year from a frugal, hardy bird. They are an efficient layer in the Leghorn mould, just less common in New Zealand.
Are Anconas flighty?
Yes, they are active and can fly well, so they suit a keeper with space to range and a tall run. They are alert foragers rather than cuddly pets.
Do Anconas handle the cold?
They prefer warmth. Like other Mediterranean breeds the large comb can suffer frostbite in hard frosts, so the colder south calls for a dry, draught-free coop.