Description

Silver Laced Wyandotte Chicken (Exhibition Type)

Breed History and Origin

The Silver Laced Wyandotte, also referred to by Cackle Hatchery® as the Black Laced Silver Wyandotte, was admitted to the American Standard of Perfection in 1883. Originating in New York State, it is the original Wyandotte variety and the foundation for all other Wyandotte color patterns.

Cackle Hatchery® has developed its exhibition bloodline using carefully selected seed stock, including lines from Jerry Foley and Rick Hare, with a continued focus on refining type, lacing, and overall show quality.

Appearance and Exhibition Qualities

The exhibition-type Silver Laced Wyandotte is prized for its precise, well-defined black lacing over a clean silver-white feather base. Proper lacing should be consistent across the body, creating a sharp, high-contrast pattern that stands out in the show ring.

They feature:

• A low, well-formed rose comb
• Bright red earlobes and wattles
• Clean yellow legs
• A broad, balanced, and compact body shape

This body type is critical for exhibition standards, giving the bird a full, rounded appearance that judges look for. Mature roosters typically weigh around 8 1/2 pounds, while hens average 6 1/2 pounds.

Egg Production

Exhibition-type Silver Laced Wyandottes produce approximately 180–260 large brown eggs per year. While they are capable layers, they are primarily valued for their appearance and adherence to breed standards.

Temperament and Suitability

This breed is known for its docile and calm temperament, making it easy to handle for both backyard keepers and those preparing birds for exhibition.

They adapt well to both confinement and free-range environments and are especially well suited to colder climates due to their compact body and rose comb, which helps reduce frostbite risk.

Broodiness and Breeding

Hens will occasionally go broody and are considered reliable mothers, making them a solid option for natural hatching programs.

Fertility typically ranges from 60–75%, with a recommended mating ratio of 9 females to 1 male.

Naming Note

To better distinguish between the growing number of Wyandotte color varieties, Cackle Hatchery® refers to this breed as the Black Laced Silver Wyandotte.

This page specifically represents the exhibition-type strain, which is bred for feather quality, lacing precision, and body conformation rather than production traits.

Availability

At select times of the year, Cackle Hatchery® may offer:

• Fertile hatching eggs (non-show type)
• Started pullets

Availability varies based on breeding cycles.

Related Resources                      

Difference Between Production Chickens and Show Chickens

Production Type Black Laced Silver Wyandotte Chicken

Wyandotte Chickens in the Heritage Breed Spotlight

FAQ

What is the difference between exhibition and production type Wyandottes?
Exhibition types are bred for feather pattern, body shape, and show standards, while production types are bred more for egg output.

What should proper lacing look like?
Each feather should have clean, defined black edging around a bright silver center.

Are they good for showing?
Yes, this strain is specifically developed with exhibition standards in mind.

Do they lay well?
They are moderate to good layers but are primarily valued for appearance.

Are they cold hardy?
Yes, their rose comb and compact build make them very well suited for colder climates.