About the Andalusian

The Andalusian is an elegant Mediterranean breed known for its striking blue-grey plumage, dark lacing and active nature. It is a light-bodied breed traditionally valued for egg production as well as its distinctive appearance.

Andalusians are alert, energetic birds and excellent foragers. They generally prefer having room to roam rather than close confinement and can be considerably more active and independent than heavier, quieter heritage breeds.

History & Origin

The Andalusian takes its name from the Andalusia region of Spain, although the development of the Blue Andalusian as we recognise it today continued after birds were taken to Britain during the nineteenth century. British breeders selectively developed the characteristic blue plumage with sharp dark lacing.

The blue colour has an interesting genetic characteristic: mating two blue birds does not produce exclusively blue offspring. Black, blue and splash offspring can occur, making maintenance of the characteristic blue colouring an ongoing consideration for breeders.

Andalusian in Australia

Andalusians have a long history in Australian poultry. Australian poultry records indicate the breed was present here during the latter half of the nineteenth century, with prize money being offered for Andalusians in Sydney in 1879 and records of further birds being imported during the 1880s.

Characteristics

Egg colour: White.

Egg size: Medium to large.

Average egg production: Approximately 160–200 eggs per year, averaging around 3–4 eggs per week across the year.

Weekly egg figures are annual averages. Actual laying varies with age, season, daylight, nutrition and individual bird.

Day-old sexing: Andalusians are not a sex-linked or autosexing breed, so males and females cannot be reliably distinguished by colour at hatch.

Temperament: Active, alert and inquisitive. They can be more independent and flightier than heavier, quieter heritage breeds and generally do best where they have room to forage.

Broodiness: Low. Andalusian hens are not generally known for frequent broodiness.

Notable features: Distinctive blue-grey plumage edged with darker lacing, a large single comb, white earlobes and a light, elegant body type. Blue-to-blue matings can produce blue, black and splash offspring.

Hardiness: Generally considered well suited to warmer climates. Their large combs and wattles can be more susceptible to cold injury in very cold conditions.

Rare Breed Status

The large Andalusian is currently classified as OF CONCERN by the Rare Breeds Trust of Australia. This category identifies breeds with low presence and/or low breeding flock ratios, where their long-term viability in Australia may be vulnerable.

Current Availability

See what’s currently available from Deb’s Heritage Hens.