ISA Brown chickens are highly sought after for their exceptional egg-laying abilities and are one of the best egg layer chicken breeds. These chickens are a hybrid breed known for their productivity and friendly nature.
ISA Brown’s Egg Laying Legend
One of the most remarkable traits of ISA Browns is their egg-laying capacity. These chickens are known as “egg-laying machines” and can lay approximately one egg per day on average. Their egg production is significantly higher than that of many other chicken breeds, making them a popular choice for backyard chicken keepers who desire a consistent supply of fresh eggs.
However, it’s important to note that their high egg production comes at a cost. ISA Browns tend to have a reduced life expectancy compared to other chickens due to the strain placed on their reproductive systems. While their average lifespan is 2-3 years, some individuals may live up to 5 years with proper care.
ISA Brown chickens are prized for their exceptional egg-laying abilities, friendly disposition, and suitability for backyard flocks. They are an excellent choice for both novice and experienced chicken keepers who desire a steady supply of eggs and a delightful addition to their flock.
History of the ISA Brown’s Creation
The Isa Brown chicken was bred in France in 1978 and is a man-made cross breed (hybrid) that was developed to produce continuous eggs. The name Isa is short for the Institut de Sélection Animale, the name of the company that created them.
Originally developed by the Institut de Selection Animale (ISA) in France in 1978, they were later known as Hubbard chickens after a merger with Merck and Co. They are now commonly referred to as ISA Browns.
Although this breed has been bred to be a dependable layer, it’s essential to know that they are susceptible to developing cancers, tumors, prolapses, and health issues due to continuous egg production (their reproductive systems don’t have a rest period).
These hybrid hens are pretty relaxed and can adapt to all sorts of climates, making maintenance much more manageable.
Physical Traits of Isa Brown Chickens
Isa Browns are an attractive breed of chicken with distinctive red-brown feathers and short white tail feathers that stand upright. They are a medium-sized breed, with the hens typically weighing around 4 pounds.
This breed’s appearance may vary as they were bred for commercial purposes. Typically, the hens have a larger-sized, rectangular-shaped body than other breeds. They have a single red comb, and their earlobes are red or white.
Isa Brown’s eyes are generally yellow or red in color.
Caring for Your Isa Brown Chickens
Isa Brown chickens make excellent backyard pets as they have docile and friendly temperaments. They get along well with other pets, such as dogs, and they don’t mind if children hold or cuddle them.
This breed loves to forage and is very inquisitive. They are best suited for a free-range lifestyle but can also tolerate confinement.
It’s advised that if you mix Isa Browns with other breeds, the new additions should be around the same size as them. Due to their peaceful nature, they tend to get bullied by bigger hens (pecking order).
They have a shorter lifespan than most breeds and can live between 5 to 8 years (depending on their diet, living environment, and general care). The Isa Brown chicken breed is very popular in the United States and Australia.
| Climate | Personality | Use | Size | Eggs/ Yr | Brooder | Forages |
| Hot & Cold | Adaptable & Friendly | Eggs | M: 6 lbsF: 4 lbs | 250-350 | Yes | Yes |
- Hens start laying at 16 weeks
- 250 to 350 eggs a year for up to 5 years
- Friendly, docile, and adaptable for all climates
My Favorite Chicken and Duck Supplies
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Manna Pro Oyster Shell keeps eggs strong. Before I gave my chickens oyster shell, I had the oddest eggs, many with weak and irregular shells. Now, I don’t have an issue.
Layer Feed by Manna Pro. I like pellets rather than crumbles as my chickens eat them better and less gets wasted or scavenged by rodents. A good layer feed makes the difference in hens laying many more eggs.
My chickens love this mealworm treat, which gives added protein, something that’s great during molting and winter months.
There are many ways to feed and water your chickens. I like this food and water setup the best because it reduces waste, saves me time feeding and watering, and keeps the food fresh longer. Except, in the winter, I use a heated waterer. The only problem is the heated waterers need to be replaced every few years.
I love this chicken veggie hanger. It makes it easy to give your chickens produce from the garden and keep them occupied in the winter with a fresh head of lettuce.
These chicken toys are a hoot! They will help curb bullying and keep your chickens active, especially in the winter when hens tend to get more lethargic.