Description

Gold Duckwing Standard Old English Game Chicken

Breed History and Origin

Cackle Hatchery® has spent decades developing multiple varieties of Standard Old English game fowl, including the Gold Duckwing Standard Old English. This breed traces back to traditional European game fowl and has been preserved for its natural hardiness, longevity, and classic coloration. It was recognized by the American Standard of Perfection in 1938 and is listed on the Livestock Conservancy Watch Status as a sustainable heritage breed. Cackle Hatchery® has been developing its own bloodline or strain of Old English Game Standard Chickens since 1974.

Appearance and Breed Characteristics

The Gold Duckwing Standard Old English is known for its rich golden hackles contrasted with black body feathering, creating a clean and eye-catching pattern. It also features pearl-colored legs and a straight comb, consistent with traditional Old English Game standards. Like other birds in this class, it has a lean, athletic build with an upright posture and strong flight ability. Mature roosters typically weigh around 5 pounds and hens around 4 pounds, with pullets and cockerels slightly smaller.

Egg Production and Broodiness

This breed is considered a poor layer, producing approximately 120 small to medium cream or tinted eggs per year. However, hens are dependable setters and are valued for their ability to hatch and raise chicks. This makes them useful in flocks where natural reproduction is desired. Fertility typically ranges from 40–55%, with a recommended mating ratio of approximately six females to one male.

Temperament and Backyard Suitability

The Gold Duckwing Standard Old English is active and flighty, with strong natural instincts. The breed is known for its gameness, and males can be territorial, requiring separation to prevent aggression. Hens are more manageable and serve well in a brooding role. These birds perform best in free-range environments, where their agility and awareness help them evade predators. They prefer higher roosting areas, typically 4 feet or more.

Production Positioning and Exhibition Use

This breed is best positioned as a heritage, free-range, and exhibition bird rather than a production layer. While they do lay eggs, their primary value lies in their durability, long lifespan, and natural reproductive ability. They are also well suited for poultry shows in the “Other Standard Breeds” Game Class, especially for those focused on preserving traditional Old English Game lines.

Breeding Note / Color Note

The golden duckwing coloration does not breed true. Silver genetics play a strong role in breeding, and a significant percentage of offspring may display silver coloring instead of gold. Careful selection is required to maintain consistent golden coloration while preserving overall health and structure.

Related Resources

Many people who like this breed of chicken also like the miniature version of the breed (bantam), the Golden Duckwing Old English Game Bantam Chicken https://www.cacklehatchery.com/product/gold-duckwing-old-english-game-bantam/
Also may like Standard Old English Surplus. https://www.cacklehatchery.com/product/standard-old-english-surplus/

FAQ

Do Gold Duckwing Old English chickens breed true to color?
No, a large percentage of offspring may hatch silver due to underlying genetics.

Are Gold Duckwing Old English roosters aggressive?
Yes, males can be territorial and should be housed separately.

Are the hens good for hatching eggs?
Yes, hens are reliable setters and make excellent mothers.

Do Gold Duckwing Old English chickens do well free ranging?
Yes, they are highly suited for free-range environments and are good at avoiding predators.

Are they good for egg production?
No, they are considered poor layers and are better suited for exhibition and breeding purposes.