Description
Blue Laced Red Wyandotte Chicken
Breed Overview and Origin
The Blue Laced Red Wyandotte chicken brings rich color, steady usefulness, and a calm Wyandotte personality to the backyard flock. If you want a chicken that looks beautiful and still helps fill the egg basket, this variety deserves a close look.
These birds have deep red feathers edged in blue, giving them a bold, laced pattern that stands out in the yard. They belong to the larger Wyandotte breed family, an American breed developed in the 1870s. The original recognized variety was Silver Laced, but breeders have worked with many other colors over the years.
The American Poultry Association does not currently recognize the Blue Laced Red color in the Standard of Perfection. Even so, backyard keepers enjoy this variety for its beauty, brown eggs, hardiness, and friendly disposition.
Appearance and Characteristics
Blue Laced Red Wyandottes have mahogany-red feathers edged with blue lacing. That contrast gives them a rich, almost hand-painted look. Some birds show a softer blue edge, while others look darker or nearly black in the lacing.
That variation is normal. Blue coloring in chickens does not breed true to one exact shade. Cackle’s article on Blue Laced Red Wyandotte or Splash Laced Red Wyandotte explains that blue-laced breeding can produce different shades, from darker chicks to lighter splash-colored birds.
Like other Wyandottes, this variety has a rounded body, clean legs, and a rose comb. Because the rose comb sits close to the head, it can help in cold weather compared with a large single comb. Still, you should provide a dry coop, good ventilation, and protection from harsh winter wind.
Blue Laced Red Wyandotte vs Splash Laced Red Wyandotte
Blue Laced Red and Splash Laced Red Wyandottes are closely related, but they do not look the same.
The Blue Laced Red Wyandotte has red feathers edged in blue. The Splash Laced Red Wyandotte has the same general red base color, but the lacing looks much lighter, often pale gray or splash colored.
Cackle explains that splash is the lightest shade in this color family. So, if you want stronger blue edging, choose Blue Laced Red. If you prefer the softest, lightest lacing, compare the Splash Laced Red Wyandotte.
Because blue does not breed true, expect some natural color variation. That variation gives the variety part of its charm.
Production Type vs Show Type Wyandottes
This is a production-type Wyandotte, not a show type. That means this line focuses more on backyard usefulness, brown eggs, hardiness, and flock temperament than exhibition judging.
For most backyard keepers, that is a good thing. You get a beautiful chicken that still acts like a practical flock bird.
Show-type birds focus more on strict breed-standard details, such as body shape, lacing precision, and exhibition quality. Since the APA does not currently recognize this color, choose these birds for beauty, eggs, and backyard enjoyment rather than official show competition.
For more background on Wyandotte history and varieties, read Wyandotte chickens in the heritage breed spotlight.
Egg Production and Utility
Blue Laced Red Wyandotte hens lay brown eggs and bring good backyard value. Many flock owners choose them because they look special and still help supply the household egg basket.
Their sturdy bodies also give them traditional dual-purpose value for eggs and meat. However, actual egg production can vary with age, daylight, feed, weather, housing, and overall flock care.
These hens may go broody from time to time. When that happens, they can make good mothers. Broodiness can help if you enjoy a more natural flock cycle, although it may pause egg laying for a while.
If you enjoy hatching projects, Blue/Splash Laced Red Wyandotte Hatching Eggs may be available at limited times of the year.
Temperament and Suitability
Blue Laced Red Wyandottes are generally calm, friendly, and easy to enjoy. These birds can work well for backyard coops, family flocks, homesteads, and small farms.
A roomy coop and run will suit them well, and they also enjoy free range when you can offer a safe setup. Their rose comb and sturdy Wyandotte body help them handle cold weather. In summer, give them shade, fresh water, and airflow.
As with any chicken, individual temperament can vary. Still, Wyandottes have a long reputation as sensible, attractive, useful birds that fit well in many backyard flocks.
Is the Blue Laced Red Wyandotte Right for Your Flock?
Choose Blue Laced Red Wyandottes if you want:
A red chicken with blue-laced feathers
A beautiful backyard bird
A brown egg layer
A production-type Wyandotte
A cold-hardy rose comb chicken
A bird that can handle confinement or free range
A dual-purpose chicken for eggs and meat
A hen that may go broody and mother chicks
A variety with natural blue color variation
Overall, this variety fits best when you want a chicken that brings color and usefulness together. It may not suit official show goals, but it works nicely for a backyard flock that should look good and still produce eggs.
If you are still comparing breeds, the Chicken Breed Selector and Chicken Breeds List Comparison Chart can help you sort birds by purpose, egg color, appearance, and flock needs.
Breed History and Preservation
The Wyandotte breed began in the United States in the 1870s. The Silver Laced variety came first, and breeders later developed many other color varieties.
The history of the Blue Laced Red color is a little less settled. Cackle’s article on Blue Laced Red Wyandotte or Splash Laced Red Wyandotte explains that many people believe breeders developed the variety in Germany and brought it to the United States in the 1980s through England. However, the same article notes evidence that blue-laced red Wyandottes may have started in the United States in the 1880s before moving through England and Germany and returning to the United States.
Today, this color remains a developing variety rather than an APA-recognized color. That does not take away from its backyard value. It simply means you should choose it for beauty, eggs, and flock enjoyment rather than official show recognition.
Recognition and Availability
The American Poultry Association does not currently recognize the Blue Laced Red color in the Standard of Perfection. The variety belongs to the Wyandotte breed family, but it remains outside the APA-recognized color list.
You can choose Blue Laced Red Wyandotte chicks when they are available. If you enjoy hatching, Blue/Splash Laced Red Wyandotte Hatching Eggs may also appear at limited times of the year.
Before you plan your order, check the Availability Chart for current hatch and shipping options. Availability can change by season, hatch date, and egg numbers.
Related Breeds and Helpful Cackle Hatchery® Resources
If you like Blue Laced Red Wyandottes, you may also want to compare Splash Laced Red Wyandottes, Black Laced Red Wyandottes, Black Laced Golden Wyandottes, Black Laced Silver Wyandottes, and other Wyandotte chicken color options.
For more color guidance, read Blue Laced Red Wyandotte or Splash Laced Red Wyandotte. For general Wyandotte background, read Wyandotte chickens in the heritage breed spotlight.
For broader flock planning, browse brown egg laying chickens, cold weather chickens, baby chicks for sale, and hatching eggs for sale.
FAQ: Blue Laced Red Wyandotte Chicken
What is a Blue Laced Red Wyandotte chicken?
A Blue Laced Red Wyandotte chicken is a Wyandotte color variety with red feathers edged in blue lacing. Backyard keepers value it for beauty, brown eggs, and a calm temperament.
Does the APA recognize Blue Laced Red Wyandottes?
No. The American Poultry Association does not currently recognize this color in the Standard of Perfection. Even so, many keepers enjoy it as a beautiful backyard variety.
Are Blue Laced Red Wyandottes good egg layers?
Yes. These hens can be useful brown egg layers for backyard flocks. Actual production can vary with age, daylight, feed, weather, housing, and care.
What color eggs do they lay?
They lay brown eggs, usually medium to large in size. That makes them a good choice if you want a beautiful bird that still helps fill the egg basket.
Are these chickens friendly?
Yes. They are generally calm, friendly, and manageable. With good handling, they can make pleasant backyard chickens for families and small flocks.
Are they good for beginners?
Yes. They can work well for beginners who want a hardy, attractive brown egg layer. Like all chickens, they still need clean water, balanced feed, dry housing, predator protection, and enough space.
Are Blue Laced Red Wyandottes cold hardy?
Yes. Their rose comb and sturdy body help them handle cold weather. Even so, they still need a dry, draft-protected coop with good ventilation.
Are they good for free range?
Yes. These birds can do well in free-range or semi-free-range systems. They also adapt to confinement when you give them enough room and enrichment.
Do Blue Laced Red Wyandottes go broody?
They may go broody from time to time. When that happens, they can make good mothers, although broodiness may pause egg laying for a while.
Why do Blue Laced Red Wyandottes vary in color?
The blue lacing does not breed true to one exact shade. Some birds show light blue lacing, others show stronger blue, and some look darker or nearly black. Cackle explains this natural variation in its Blue Laced Red Wyandotte or Splash Laced Red Wyandotte article.
What is the difference between Blue Laced Red and Splash Laced Red Wyandottes?
Blue Laced Red birds have red feathers edged in blue. Splash Laced Red birds have red feathers edged in a much lighter splash or pale gray color. Splash is the lightest shade in the blue color family.
Are Blue Laced Red Wyandottes good for meat?
Yes. They have dual-purpose value and can work for both eggs and meat. Most backyard keepers choose them mainly for their color, eggs, and temperament.
What is the difference between production type and show type?
Production-type birds focus more on practical backyard use, eggs, meat value, and flock temperament. Show-type birds focus more on exhibition traits and breed-standard appearance. Since the APA does not recognize this color, these birds make more sense for backyard enjoyment than official show goals.
Are Blue Laced Red Wyandottes heritage chickens?
They belong to the historic Wyandotte breed family, but this specific color is a developing variety and does not yet have APA recognition.
Can I order Blue Laced Red Wyandotte hatching eggs?
Yes. Blue/Splash Laced Red Wyandotte Hatching Eggs may be available at limited times of the year.
Where can I check chick availability?
Check the Availability Chart for current hatch and shipping options. Availability can change by season, hatch date, and egg numbers.
trotter.bottomsup –
I ordered three Blue Laced Red Wyandottes in April. They’re gorgeous, healthy birds, though only one of the three has started laying at 28 weeks.
Martha Dugan –
I ordered 4 hens with my Lavender Orpingtons. I did receive one roo. They are all beautiful and very friendly. Each one has a slightly different color variation. One hen did have a bit of a cross beak, but it hasn’t hindered her eating yet. They have not started laying yet, but I would expect it to be very soon. I would definatley order this breed again, they are stunning beauties.
Andru –
I ordered 3 females and 1 male on February 9th 2024 and my order shipped as scheduled on February 28th 2024. Chicks arrived within the 3 days as expected. To my surprised I had received an extra female. I ordered these chicks to arrived around the day the chicks from my home incubator would hatch. The chicks I ordered were raised with the chicks hatched from an incubator (Silver Laced Wyandottes, Salmon Favorelles, Dominique, and some other mixed breeds). I followed the care directions provided by the hatchery and all chicks were raised with the same care. I gave them medicated high protein starter feed, proper heat, and electrolytes. A couple weeks later, March 15th 2024, my one male chick passed. I wasn’t too upset as they had given me an extra female chick so at least I had 4 chicks and was charged for 4 chicks. I reached out to Cackle with some concerns. The 5 chicks from Cackle were very small compared to the chicks I hatched from my incubator and they were also much less active. The chicks all had an appetite but nothing compared to the home incubator ones but no abnormal bowel movements. I’d also like to noted the chicks from Cackle hatched two days prior to the ones from my incubator. Cackle was super responsive and suggested the chicks to be treated for Cocci. I did as instructed but no change. Over the months these chicks developed at significantly slower rates; in August these chicks looked at most 2 months old. Around mid-end September the remaining 4 females hit a growth spurt and caught up with the rest of the flock. Things were looking good. In October, they began laying eggs. Unfortunately, December 2024, something hit our flock. Our chickens became ill. Of the 35 chickens in our flock, 3 passed and they were 3 of the 4 remaining female Blue Laced Red Wyandotte. We are now left with only 1 from our original order. These chicks seemed to have not developed to be the healthiest from the very beginning and it was no surprise they were the weakest in the flock. Things I think are worth mentioning, Cackle was very responsive and provided good customer service. Also these hens were absolutely beautiful once they were fully developed. They were for sure the most beautiful chickens I’ve owned. When people came to visit they took the spot light. Great personalities; all 4 of them were quiet and tame. They were at the top of the pecking order but not aggressive at all. I plan to order more this year with better luck.
mason.neil.pitts –
I ordered 1 Roo and 7 hens and they are all Beautiful and friendly.
I also got two extra Roo’s that I’ve grown attached to
Michael Leidner –
Ordered a few of many varieties. Ordered 3 BLRW pullets. Got two cockerels and a black laced red pullet. Sexing is not the best with this breed, order straight run and you won’t get disappointed. Overall, I came out ahead on sexing with the straight run birds I ordered, so overall I am pleased with the order. Just would not have ordered sexted pullets of this breed.
agwillcutt15 –
Fat, loud, weird. But she is a beautiful and kind hen.
natedoggmatter –
Ordered 5 blue laced pullets. Received 2 blue laced, 1 silver laced, 2 red laced black pullets, and 1 red laced black rooster. Was hoping cackle would at least send the right colored birds.
Josh Hall –
I ordered 15 hens in March. All arrived healthy, on time, and have done well in the brooder and now the coop. The breed is as advertised and should be laying any time now. The only down side is that of the 15, I have 12 hens and 3 roosters so that has been disappointing.
jenniferbowmanhatesgoogle –
My chicks came in April it is now February of the next year and I can say I am very pleased with my chickens. All arrived healthy and we didn’t lose a single chick. These are such beautiful calm birds, they are so very well worth trying. The hens are laying almost everyday through winter and only stopped during a very low temperature spell. I did as many do and got a surprise rooster however I have decided to keep him rather than stick him in our freezer. The rooster is very calm compared to some of the other types which I have and those ladies deserve their own man.
Carly Kubinski –
I ordered sexed pullets and ended up with half of them being roosters. As far as blue lacing goes, only 1 has the blue. She luckily is a pullet. I understand the blue genetics don’t breed true but still a little disappointing. Over all I am happy with the demeanor of these chickens. They are inquisitive and very gentle with my family. Because I paid for pullets and got half roosters- I probably won’t order again.
palesanom –
Gorgeous hens! I’m very impressed with the quality of lacing on the birds now that they are full grown. They are heavy birds and they lay an egg nearly everyday. The eggs are always speckled and have heavy blooms. Very happy!
Rachel Edwards –
I received one blue laced red wyandotte and she’s the sweetest of the 4 chicks I received. Unfortunately she is blind and is kind of runty, but I’ve been giving her extra care and she’s catching up with the others. I’m not taking off stars because i don’t think it’s the hatchery’s fault, it would be hard to tell whether a chick you’re about to ship out is blind or not since in that setting you can’t focus on individuals. I’m glad I recieved her and I love her very much.
alexgarrison44 –
I was very please! I ordered 15 and received 17. On top of this it arrived a day early and they were all so very happy and healthy!!
Scenic Root –
Full of Personality
We ordered three BLR Wyandottes, three Barnevelders, and a male dark Brahma. Unfortunately, the Barnevelders didn’t hatch out as well as expected, so we received the Brahma and five Wyandottes, as well as a refund for the Barnevelders! The little ladies (and gent) are nine days old at the time of writing, and they’re all thriving. One of them is already testing out her wings and managed to fly up to the edge of the brooder and perch there twice this afternoon.
This is my first time ordering from Cackle, and I’ve been very impressed at every step. I plan to order again next year when we scale up!
CindyfromPa –
Wonderful!
These birds were healthy and cute while babies and turned into beautiful huge birds when grown! Very happy with my purchase!
STORMY –
NOT HAPPY WITH THEIR CUSTOMER SERVCE
I ORDERED 6 CHICKS. THEY ARE BEAUTIFUL BUT 2 OF THEM TURNED OUT TO BE ROOSTERS.I PAID 7.20 EACH FOR FEMALES ONLY PLUS ALL THE ADDED FEES CAME TO $84.82 I CONTACTED THEM IN SEPTEMBER AND SENT PICTURES OF THE 2 ROOSTERS. AFTER MANY PHONE CALLS I WAS TOLD THE REFUND IS UP TO THE OWNERS THE SMITH FAMILY. I JUST GOT A REFUND FOR ONE (1) ROOSTER ( $7.20 ) IT IS NOW DECEMBER.. CONTACTED THEM AGAIN AND TOLD THEM IT WAS TWO (2) ROOSTERS AND RE SENT THE PICTURE.
THEIR REPLY WAS THE SEXING OF THE CHICKS IS NOT A GUARANTEE. COME ON YOU HAVE BEEN IN BUSINESS SINCE 1936. SO END OF THE STORY. IT IS NOT THE $7.20 THAT I FEEL I AM OWED BUT THE PRINCIPAL OF IT. STICK WITH YOUR LOCAL FEED STORES. THEY ARE NEVER WRONG ABOUT THE SEXING THEIR CHICKS. SORRY BUT YOU HAVE LOST MY BUSINESS.
FlockFan –
Blue Laced Wyandottes
I ordered three pullets…ended up with two striking gals and one very handsome and mild roo. I’ve found all three to be gentle, inquisitive, and a quiet edition to the flock.
Beautiful and friendly –
My favorite
So sweet these birds are. They have quickly became one of my favorite. Very docile !!
Kayla –
Best Looking Birds We’ve Ever Had
These guys are the biggest, prettiest, classiest birds we’ve had. They’re quiet, happy, a little picky on what they eat, and by far have the best health. We purchased in early April and these guys have been spectacular egg layers. They’re big, gentle ladies (plus one gentleman). The rooster is gorgeous and happy and healthy. We couldn’t ask for more from Cackle Hatchery.
Matt –
Mostly black
Ordered 10, got 6 black, 4 blue, 0 splash. Yes, I understand how blue breeds. Of those 10, 2 were roos. So, I got 3 blue laced for the price of 10. Won’t be ordering these again. Reported it to Cackle twice, was ignored both times and questioned to my knowledge of chicken color genetics. But hey, the 3 newborn chicks I paid $72 for are nice…
John –
Blue Laced Red Wyandotte
These chickens are the most beautiful chickens as well as great light brown speckled egg layers. These chickens are very docile and easily get along with other chickens.
Jill H –
Beautiful birds, great layers
We have 3 blue laced red Wyandottes. They are all gorgeous birds and lay large eggs almost every day. They have an independent nature and don’t squabble with the other chickens. Love them!
Tree –
Beautiful breed
I ordered three pullets this past spring and received two pullets and a rooster. They are all beautiful and so mild mannered. Even the rooster! He gets along great with my other roo so he is welcome in our flock.
Shar –
Beautiful birds
These guys are 15 weeks now and absolutely gorgeous and healthy birds.! I could not be happier. Thank you cackle Hatchery.
Janice –
Excellent bird
Ordered 3 hens, received an extra golden lace. I love the look of these birds with their gray and red feathers. The are very mild mannered. One actually loves to swing on a swing I placed in the coop. People get a kick out of it. 1 of the 4 starting laying at 16 weeks. Still waiting on the others.
JFran –
Very Hardy beautiful birds
I ordered a few hens in June and they are very healthy and are everybody’s favorite bird to see in the yard. Definitely ordering more in the spring.
David –
Blue laced red wyndottes
I purchased 12 chicks. 2 were roosters and 10 hens. 5 died over the first two weeks. The other 7 are beautiful. I have 1 rooster and 6 hens. If I could post a picture of them I would. I will definitely order for cackle again. I purchased 10 silver laced wyndottes and my dogs killed every one of them while I was gone. But had no issues with them they were growing beautifully
Cackle Hatchery Team –
To Al who was sent the wrong color wyandotte
Please contact us and send us pictures. I am not sure if you purchased not sexed or sexed birds but we should have definitely sent you the correct color bird.
Katie –
Beautiful!
I bought 3 pullets and they’ve turned into beautiful gentle hens! They were hardy chicks. I got them first of March and they began laying end of July-early August.
ScooterMizzou –
Beautiful-Hearty Bird
One of the most beautiful birds in our flock—it’s one of the ones that people always point out and ask what it is. Seems very hearty and they’ve been doing well.
Dodge Dart –
Beautiful Hens and Roosters
They’re as beautiful as the pictures show. One of our hens made friends with one of our ponies. Very nice chickens.
Linda –
Nice
Ordered 3 pullets and got 4 chicks. One turned out to be a rooster, but he is beautiful and well mannered. All are very healthy. Love my Blue Laced Red Wyandottes!!!
IzzyD –
Great birds, very healthy
Very healthy birds bought to hopefully show in 4-h. Won a blue ribbon with many comments saying gorgeous coloring. Very distinct coloring. We accidentally got a black one but we are glad we did because that one is also very gorgeous. Overall great birds and easy to keep.
Amy –
Beautiful
I bought 3 blue laced red wyandottes in February. They were my daughters choice for 4H showing. We narrowed it down to one very friendly hen, she won 3 poultry shows, including the state fair, she was also grand Champion breed standard for our county.
Jen –
I ❤ My Blue Laced Red Wyandottes!
I have been waiting and waiting for Blue Laced Red Wyandottes and it was totally worth it!! These are the most stunning Ladies in my flock and I cannot wait until next Spring to order more!!
Marilyn –
Blue laced red Wyandotte’s
We ordered these birds in March, they are heathy and a beautiful species. Their feathers are amazing fluffy colors. They are good layers. We are very pleased with them.
Mike –
Great Birds
We purchased three hens with 16 other birds of different breed. We received three hens and a rooster. The birds are all vigorous and healthy. We lost only one bird of the 25 we received the first day..of course it was one of the blue laced hens. they have just begun to lay two days ago. They are gorgeous, well-bred and calm. We find that the rooster is somewhat laid back when compared to the Black Laced Wyandotte rooster. All in all, we’re well-pleased with all the breeds we received and will be back. didn’t count until they were six weeks old and found we had received four of each, rather than the three we ordered. Very generous, but unnecessary. Thank You!
FrankA –
Love them
I purchased the Blue laced red wyandotte last June and they are fine. They all arrived well and I lost none . As they are getting older the blue color is becoming more apparent , just having looked grey to this point.
Christine –
Great birds
I got a few hens and a rooster. I have had them since march and they are doing great. The rooster is actually a large rooster which i didn’t know they get that big. The hens are laying well, so far I’m happy with them.
Al –
Ok
Ordered 6 F, received 7 chicks. One did not make it. 4 of the 6 chicks ended up being roosters, which were not blue, they were gold. The 2 That turned out to be female are blue, and beautiful
Brave Chicken –
Beatiful birds – not very hearty.
We ordered 5, received 5. Only have 2 remaining. At the same time ordered two other breeds. In house pecking, they just didn’t survive as well as Rhode Islands or Domiques.
Shar, Arizona –
Very happy
Got 7 healthy chicks. Looks like 2 females & 5 males. I’ve also ordered other chicks from cackle & I’m very happy with that order also. Will definitely be doing more business here. Thank you cackle Hatchery
TJ HILL –
Most beautiful
I bought a mix of chickens with 3 straight run blue/red Wyandotte’s. I got one roo and 2 hens. They really are stunning. The colors remind me of Tiffany glass. I’m back to buy more. 🙂
Chris –
Blue laced red Wyandotte’s
All 15 and 3 extra arrived less then 24 hrs . All are healthy and very active . Great service . Would definitely order from cackle again
Paul –
Worth the wait
Bought 6 blue laced red wyandottes. Got 7 healthy chicks 4 roos and 3 hens. Took forever to start laying lol over 9 months. Gorgeous birds especially roosters. Really winter hardy. Eat alot too! lol a must have breed.
Jason California –
The most beautifull girls on the yard
I am checking in 6 moths after my order. I ordered 3 dozen chicks all of the Wyandotte breed. all chicks arrived alive and very energetic. I ended up with 6 males and 6 female of the blue laced reds. I was hoping for a few more females but that’s how it goes when you order a strait run. I will be ordering another batch this spring as soon as the weather warms and the grass starts growing again.
Chicken Mama –
Beautiful healthy babies
Just got my babies today. All are fine healthy birds. Looks like we got 9 hens and 2 roos. Another happy customer! Thats why I keep ordering from y’all.
Lori –
Blue laced red wyandotte/gold laced cochins
I ordered 20 chicks and all arrived healthy including the extra chick. Will definatly order again