General Information
Olive Eggers are not a breed but a type of chicken developed by crossing blue egg-laying breeds like Ameraucanas with dark brown egg layers such as Marans. The result is a chicken that lays eggs with shades of olive green, bringing a splash of color and novelty to any egg basket.
Distinctive Traits
The appearance of Olive Eggers can vary widely depending on the specific breeds used in their development. What unifies them is their egg color - a distinctive olive green that enchants and delights. They inherit the hardiness and egg-laying reliability of their parent breeds.
Personality
The temperament of Olive Eggers can range from friendly and docile to active and curious, depending on their lineage. They are generally hardy chickens, adaptable to various climates and conditions.
Optimal Living Conditions
Olive Eggers are versatile and can thrive in both free-range and confined environments. Like their parent breeds, they benefit from space to forage but will also adapt to smaller spaces as long as their basic needs for shelter, food, and water are met.
Feed Preferences
These chickens do well on a standard layer feed complemented by foraging opportunities. Access to a diet rich in greens can enhance the natural olive color of their eggs. Supplement with calcium for strong shell formation.
Pricing
Eggs: $7 each | 6 for $42 | 12 for $84 | 18 for $117 | 24 for $144 | Chicks: $25 each
Hatching Guide
Incubate eggs at 99.5°F (37.5°C) with 45-55% humidity, increasing to 75-85% for the final hatch stage. Ensure eggs are turned regularly, at least five times daily, to promote healthy embryo development. Candling should be performed around days 7 and 18 to monitor embryo growth and remove non-viable eggs.
Rearing Guide
Start with a brooder temperature of 95°F, reducing it by 5°F each week as chicks grow. Provide a balanced chick starter feed, transitioning to layer feed as they approach laying age. Early handling helps in taming the chicks. Maintain a clean brooding environment and monitor the chicks' health and growth.
