Description
White Leghorn Chicken
Breed Overview and Origin
The White Leghorn chicken is one of the most dependable white egg layers you can add to a flock. If your main goal is lots of large white eggs from an active, efficient bird, this breed is hard to ignore.
Leghorns trace back to Italy, especially the area around Livorno, the port city that gave the breed its English name. Over time, breeders in the United States, England, and Denmark helped shape the modern Leghorn into a lighter, athletic laying breed. The American Poultry Association recognized White Leghorns in 1874. The Livestock Conservancy notes that non-industrial Leghorns still keep the productive, hardy, foraging nature of the older Italian imports.
White Leghorns are not heavy meat birds. They are light, quick-maturing chickens bred for egg production. They rarely go broody, which helps keep them focused on laying instead of sitting. If you want a hen that spends more time producing eggs and less time raising chicks, this is a good breed to consider.
Appearance and Characteristics
White Leghorns have clean white feathers, yellow skin, yellow legs, and a bright red comb. Most production White Leghorns have a single comb, which gives them the classic layer look many people recognize.
These birds are athletic, alert, and quick on their feet. They like to move, scratch, forage, and explore. Because of that, they often do well in free-range systems where they have room to work.
Their white feathering looks bright and clean, but it can make them easier for predators to spot than darker or patterned breeds. Good fencing, safe roosting space, and predator protection still matter, even with an alert breed like this.
White Leghorn vs Brown Leghorn: Which Should You Choose?
White Leghorns and Brown Leghorns share the same active, lightweight, white-egg-laying breed background. The biggest difference is appearance.
Choose the White Leghorn if you want the classic white production layer known for large to extra-large white eggs. Choose the Brown Leghorn if you prefer a more colorful bird with the same general Leghorn activity and foraging style.
Both varieties are active, efficient, and more independent than many heavier backyard breeds. If you want lap-chicken calm, you may prefer a gentler dual-purpose breed. However, if you want an alert, productive layer, Leghorns fit the job well.
Production Type vs Exhibition Type White Leghorns
This page focuses on Cackle Hatchery’s production-type White Leghorn. That means the birds are selected for egg laying, vigor, feed efficiency, and practical flock performance.
At this time, Cackle does not offer an exhibition-type White Leghorn line. So, if your goal is show competition, this may not be the right choice. But if you want a hard-working layer for white eggs, the production type makes more sense.
Production Leghorns are built to lay. They are light-bodied, quick to mature, and efficient with feed. That is why so many egg-focused flocks have relied on White Leghorns for generations.
Egg Production and Utility
White Leghorns are famous for white eggs. Hens commonly lay around 280 eggs per year, and strong layers may reach higher numbers under good conditions. Cackle lists White Leghorns as producing large to extra-large white eggs, with an estimated 280–320 eggs per year. Actual egg production can vary with age, daylight, feed, weather, housing, and overall care.
They also have a strong feed-to-egg conversion ratio. Many keepers like them because they do not need as much feed as heavier dual-purpose breeds to produce a good number of eggs. Your original breed notes list about 125 grams of feed per day as a common estimate, though actual intake can vary with weather, activity, and the feed you use.
Because they rarely go broody, Leghorn hens usually keep laying instead of taking long breaks to sit on eggs. That makes them a strong option for backyard egg baskets, free-range egg flocks, and customers who want steady white eggs.
If you enjoy hatching projects, White Leghorn Fertile Hatching Eggs may be available seasonally. Cackle’s hatching egg page notes that White Leghorn eggs ship seasonally from mid-February through early June when available.
Temperament and Suitability
White Leghorns are active, hardy, alert, and independent. They are not usually the cuddly type, and they often prefer to keep a little distance from people. If you want a calm pet chicken for children to carry around, this may not be your first pick.
However, if you want a smart, energetic layer that can forage and stay busy, Leghorns are excellent. They can do especially well in free-range or organic-style egg setups where they have space to move.
They are also good at avoiding some predator pressure because they are quick and alert. Even so, no chicken can protect itself from every predator. White birds can be easier to see from a distance, so give them secure nighttime housing and safe daytime ranging.
In hot weather, Leghorns usually do well because of their lighter bodies and active Mediterranean background. In cold weather, the large single comb needs attention. A dry, well-ventilated coop helps reduce frostbite risk.
Is the White Leghorn Chicken Right for Your Flock?
Choose White Leghorns if you want:
A top white egg layer
Large to extra-large white eggs
A light, athletic chicken
A fast-maturing laying breed
A bird with strong feed-to-egg efficiency
A non-broody hen for steady egg production
A good free-range or organic egg flock bird
An active forager
A production-type Leghorn from Cackle Hatchery®
A heritage white egg breed with a long history
Overall, this is a great choice if eggs are your priority. White Leghorns may not be the calmest backyard pets, but they are some of the best layers you can keep when you want lots of white eggs from efficient, active hens.
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, size, and flock needs.
Breed History and Preservation
The Leghorn breed traces back to Italian landrace chickens from the Tuscany region. Birds from the port of Livorno reached North America in the 1800s and eventually became known by the anglicized name “Leghorn.” The breed then spread through the United States and into Europe, where breeders continued improving laying ability and type.
White Leghorns became one of the most important egg-laying breeds in the world. Industrial white egg production still relies heavily on Leghorn genetics, although many modern commercial strains differ from the older non-industrial type. The Livestock Conservancy notes that non-industrial Leghorns remain in the hands of smaller breeders and still show strong foraging and productive traits.
Cackle Hatchery® has developed its pure White Leghorn bloodline since 1936, and it lists the breed as a sustainable heritage chicken with The Livestock Conservancy Recovering status.
Recognition and Availability
The American Poultry Association recognizes Leghorns in the Mediterranean class. White Leghorns entered the Standard of Perfection in 1874.
You can choose White Leghorn chicks when they are in season. If you prefer hatching your own, White Leghorn Fertile Hatching Eggs may be available seasonally. Cackle also offers White Leghorn Started Pullets for customers who want birds closer to laying age.
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 White Leghorns, you may also want to compare Brown Leghorns, Austra Whites, California Whites, and other white egg layers. The white egg layer category is a good place to compare breeds built for strong white egg production.
For hatching projects, browse hatching eggs for sale. If you are still planning your flock, use the Chicken Breed Selector or Chicken Breeds List Comparison Chart to compare breeds by egg color, temperament, climate, and purpose.
FAQ: White Leghorn Chicken
What is a White Leghorn chicken?
A White Leghorn chicken is a light, active, white egg laying breed with Italian roots. It is best known for large to extra-large white eggs, quick maturity, and strong feed efficiency.
Where did White Leghorns originate?
Leghorns trace back to Italy, especially the area around Livorno. Breeders in the United States, England, and Denmark later helped shape the modern breed.
When did the APA recognize White Leghorns?
The American Poultry Association recognized White Leghorns in 1874. The breed belongs to the Mediterranean class.
Are White Leghorns good egg layers?
Yes. White Leghorns are excellent layers. Cackle lists them at about 280–320 large to extra-large white eggs per year, though actual production can vary with age, feed, daylight, weather, housing, and care.
What color eggs do White Leghorns lay?
They lay white eggs. Egg size usually runs large to extra-large in good laying hens.
Are White Leghorns good for meat?
No, not compared with dual-purpose or meat breeds. Leghorns are light-bodied birds bred mainly for egg production.
Are White Leghorns broody?
They rarely go broody. That makes them a good choice if you want hens that keep laying instead of sitting on eggs.
Are White Leghorns friendly?
They are active and alert, but they often avoid close human contact. Many keepers describe them as nervous or flighty rather than cuddly.
Are White Leghorns good for beginners?
Yes, they can work well for beginners who want lots of white eggs and do not mind an active, independent breed. If you want a calm pet chicken, a heavier dual-purpose breed may fit better.
Are White Leghorns good for free range?
Yes. Leghorns are athletic, efficient foragers and often do well in free-range systems. However, their white feathers can make them easier for predators to spot, so protection still matters.
Are White Leghorns heat tolerant?
Yes. Their light bodies and Mediterranean background help them handle heat better than many heavier breeds. Provide shade, cool water, and airflow during hot weather.
Are White Leghorns cold hardy?
They can handle cool weather with proper care, but their large single combs can be prone to frostbite. Keep the coop dry, draft-protected, and well ventilated.
How much do White Leghorns eat?
Your original breed notes estimate about 125 grams of feed per day. Actual intake can vary with weather, activity level, feed quality, and flock setup.
Does Cackle Hatchery® offer exhibition White Leghorns?
No. At this time, Cackle Hatchery® only offers the production-type White Leghorn, not an exhibition line.
Can I order White Leghorn hatching eggs?
Yes. White Leghorn Fertile Hatching Eggs may be available seasonally.
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.
Alexa Buckman –
I would leave 0 stars if I could. My ENTIRE batch of leghorns died within a few days of getting them. The other breed in my order did fine. Cackle Hatchey will not refund or replace any of the chicks we lost. I paid a fortune to have the “healthiest” chicks shipped and they will not stand by their product. We will never order from this place again, or recommend them to anyone. Terrible customer service and just a scam.
olana7995 –
I have raised chickens for over 40 years. Whenever I order pullets, I always order 4 or 5 Leghorns. I always want some good layers, These are the best! They lay a big white egg during all seasons. They never set (which is a relief to me) and they are just an all around great hen. This year was the second year I dealt with Cackle Hatchery and I was so pleased with their service! I still buy a of hens for their looks, so people who visit will say, “wow!” But its me saying “wow” when I get the eggs with Leghorns!
Lori Thompson –
I have ordered the leghorns from cackle hatchery t ice and have love having them. They are good egg layers and haven’t had much problem with them getting along with the other breeds.
Kacie Sanders –
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I had a fantastic experience with this hatchery! I purchased a group of White Leghorn chicks, and they arrived healthy, active, and clearly well-cared-for. They grew beautifully and ended up being the very first of my mixed flock to start laying eggs — and they’ve been incredibly reliable layers ever since. I couldn’t be happier with the quality of the chicks or the excellent service from this hatchery. Highly recommend to anyone looking for strong, productive birds!
mcdo9629 –
I’ve ordered from Cackle a few times and have always had good customer service. My most recent experience was when I ordered some White Leghorns. That order got lost in shipping and all of the chicks died before they arrived. This was no fault of Cackle, but a shipping issue. I’ve placed several online orders over the years both with Cackle and other hatcheries and that was the first time I’ve ever had an issue with shipping. Cackle refunded my order and I was able to re-order quickly and the replacement batch of chicks arrived healthy and good. Those chicks are 12 weeks old now and every one of them has survived with no issues. I ordered 14 pullets and one rooster and everything turned out as expected with proper sexing of the chicks. I have a few other White Leghorns and they are the best layers of all of the birds in my flock so I am excited to see how well these ones lay. I’ll continue to do business with Cackle in the future.
Deborah Blackman –
I recently purchased a batch of White Leghorn chicks from Cackle Hatchery, and I couldn’t be happier with my experience. From the moment I placed my order to the day they arrived, the entire process was smooth and efficient. Cackle Hatchery kept me informed every step of the way, ensuring a seamless transition from their facility to my home. The care they take in shipping these little ones truly shines through, as they arrived safely and healthy.
Now, three months later, I’m amazed at how well they’ve adapted and thrived in our environment. The White Leghorns are not only robust but also extraordinarily lively and curious. Their growth has been impressive, and they’ve quickly become the stars of our backyard. With their bright personality and energetic demeanor, they fill our days with joy and are a delight to watch.
What stands out the most about Cackle Hatchery is their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. It’s clear that they put a lot of effort into breeding healthy, strong chickens. I highly recommend Cackle Hatchery to anyone looking to add vibrant and productive chickens to their flock. Thank you, Cackle Hatchery, for providing such wonderful birds and for exceptional service!
Bruthabuz –
My wife and I ordered 5 of these White Leghorns last November and were notified on 2/15 that our order of 35 total chicks had shipped to us in California. Two days later, the USPS called to let us know we could pick them up. We actually received 39 chicks, all of them in eggsellent shape! We can’t wait for them to start laying eggs, for us and our friends! Thank you, Cackle Hatchery!
Janey Welch –
I recommend chicken therapy and Cackle Hatchery to everyone! Received my 7 plus 1 free extra on the 28th. They are lively, playful, thriving and growing like weeds along with their 6 Barred Rock and 6 Cochin pals. No more feed store chicks for me! They are gorgeous girls!
Bryan Peed –
We ordered 14(we got 16) to add to our flock. They all arrived alert, alive and very energetic. Followed the instructions cackle provides and not a single loss. Birds are growing and flourishing. As always, Cackle is top shelf with their birds and service.
Brian Groover –
Smartest Bird in Our Flock, and the Best Layer
Cackle Hatchery did a fabulous job shipping healthy stock to us.
We only got one White Leghorn, along with some Dark Brahmas and Cornish Cross. The Leghorn is by far the best layer of the flock–or was until she got prolapse in her second year and stopped laying.
She’s also clearly the smartest of the flock, figuring *everything* out faster than the other birds. Lots of interesting behaviors.
When it comes time to replace the laying flock, I’ll be getting more White Leghorns. And there is no way I would order from anyone but Cackle Hatchery.
Rachel –
Awesome
This is my second order. My first order was a small order of only 6. But I loved my birds so much we ordered more. 16 leghorns came by mail quickly and they were all alive and well. Cacklehatchery does a great job! I love these birds, they are great layers and have the best, friendliest personality!!
Leona –
Wonderful Experience
I ordered four leghorns to restart my backyard flock. My previous hens all worked hard, retired and have passed on. So time to start anew. I have never ordered animals online, but couldn’t find what I wanted locally. So I placed my order and my chicks all arrived healthy and active. They are now two weeks old and going strong. Unlike some online reviews of leghorns, these birds are all friendly and very curious. I look forward to getting them outside and in their coop. Thanks for a great online ordering experience.
Jo –
Nice, Friendly Layer
We ordered three White Leghorn female chicks this past Spring. One died before maturity and one turned out to be a rooster, but despite this I’m pleased with the remaining hen from this purchase. She is the sweetest, most engaging hen of my bunch, not nervous and flighty as they’re often said to be. She began laying decent sized white eggs daily at about 6.5 months. The unexpected rooster is beautiful, and so far has not been aggressive towards us.
angel –
Thanks!
I would like to take the time and thank Cackle Hatchery. My chicks arrived and all alive and healthy. I can say that I will not order from anyone but you. I’ve ordered from other hatcheries and not the same satisfaction that I have with Cackle. Thank you so very much. Will always have my business. Your the #1 best of all.
Melissa –
Great experience
Ordered 10 leghorns, and an assorted amount if easter eggers and cuckoo Marian. They ALL arrived healthy, and beautiful! Not to mention I got an extra leghorn and cuckoo maran!!! So far, so good. I wish had the informational packet from Purina like 10 years ago. I have had to learn the hard way on the type of wire to use etc, and feed! Even introduction to an already established flock. Very pleased! I will definitely be making my yearly purchase of 1/3 my yearly flock with these folks!!!
ClemsonGirly94 –
WL Chicks
I ordered 17 female birds (5 Easter Eggs, 5 Buff Orpington, 5 White Leghorns, 2 Khaki Campbell Ducks) and ALL were alive and healthy straight out of the shipping box. They’re all a week old now and absolutely thriving!
This was my first time ordering chicks online and I was a little hesitant at first but Cackle Hatchery is great! I will be a repeat buyer.
Rachel –
Excellent
My chicks were hatched and shipped during one of the coldest weeks we had this year. All 16 arrived alive thanks to Cackle putting in a heat pad and USPS trying to keep them out of the cold as much as possible. I was very impressed. Will order again. 13 Leghorns 3 Easter Eggers.
Juan Enrique –
Excellent Breed! Excellent custumer service!
Last february, i ordered 5 Leghorns and they arrived in perfect shape. This people have the best customer service ive seen. The breeds are excellent and they are by the book, of course, the american standard of perfection. If you want to raise chickens for any purpose, this is the place to buy. This is a reliable thing here.
Allan –
Great People to do business with!
The girls arrived today, 3-11-16. They seem healthy and happy!
Thanks for your awesome customer service!
Mark Illinois February 2014 –
Just a customer message
I have ordered through Cackle Hatchery for the past few years and have been very happy with the service. This spring (2016), I expect to be raising chickens and turkeys. I am overwintering some standard bronze turkeys and hoping that they will reproduce this spring. This year we raised 30 turkeys to slaughter and I am hoping to do about the same next season.
Dan Texas May 2009 –
Order arrival
A quick note to let you know the chicks arrived 5/6/09 in great condition! If you shipped on the 5th that was an overnight delivery.
Terri, Illinois March 2012 –
Thank You
I don’t often send words of THANKS… but I am the “Chicken Lady” at one of your wholesale stores. I just received our second batch of chicks from you today (50 each of Buff Orpington, Rhode Island Reds and White Leghorns) and I just have to say; I have raised and ordered chicks for many, many years as a private chicken fanatic and this is the first time I have experienced chicks on a retail level. Your chicks arrive healthy, robust and on time. All of our chick buyers are told up front that their are coming from Cackle Hatchery. We have a 98% survival rate once they hit our store and I think that says a lot for your quality and our care once they are in our hands. Thank you for all the hard work that you do on your end and once those chicks are in my hands I do everything i can to see that they are properly cared for and ready to go on to their new homes. I simply cannot express strongly enough how happy I am doing business with you.
Elizabeth Maine March 2014 –
Thanks!
I want to tell you how much I like the qualities of your birds and their eggs. I hope that I will have many more amazing years with your chickens! THANK YOU!
Butch Ohio April 2010 –
Chicks
Just wanted to let you know that our chick order arrived this morning on time and the girls were in excellent shape strong and healthy. My wife and I are very pleased. Will order from Cackle again. Happy Customers
Mario California April 2010 –
Thank You note
Thanks a lot to all involved in my order. All I want is to thank you for my chicks. Sadly one of the little turkeys arrived dead but the rest are doing fine. Hopefully everything goes fine and I will see you next time. Have a wonderful day.
Sigfrido Puerto Rico May 2010 –
Cackle Hatchery
As you can see I live in Puerto Rico. My chicks were sent Wednesday and arrived today Friday. All of them alive and in perfect condition. Thank you very much. It has been a pleasure doing business with you and will definitely will do business again.
Jim Indiana July 1010 –
Order
Received order today. They are live and healthy. Everybody done a good job. Even the Post Office. Thanks
Jay Kansas June 2014 –
Thanks
We received our package of chicks this morning at 7:30 am. All were healthy. Thank you a bunch for your service. We are looking forward to raising our leghorns, Rhode Island Red, Easter Egg and Black Australorps. We also appreciate the information you send concerning the first few weeks of caring for our chicks. It is detailed and helpful. Thanks again for your great service.
Janie, Missouri May 2014 –
Cackle Hatchery
I received my chicks today and found all but 1 made it alive not bad odds for ordering 70 chicks. Thank you for the chicks and I am looking forward to ordering more.
Michael Tennessee July 2014 –
Cackle Hatchery
I appreciate the manner in which you packaged the chicks. Certainly much better than other hatcheries that shall remain nameless. You have me as a customer to stay.