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Breeds of Livestock

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CATTLE GOATS HORSES POULTRY SHEEP SWINE OTHER
CATTLE GOATS HORSES POULTRY SHEEP SWINE OTHER
Department of Animal and Food SciencesOSU Extension
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A dark red and black Cornish hen standing in the leaves.The Cornish were developed in the shire (county) of Cornwall, England where the breed was known as "Indian Game". They show the obvious influence of Malay and other oriental blood. They were prized for their large proportion of white meat and its fine texture. The breed was recognized by the APA in 1893.

 

Characteristics

The Cornish has a broad, well muscled body. Its legs are of large diameter and widely spaced. The large deep set eyes, projecting brows and strong, slightly curved beak give the Cornish a rather cruel expression. Cornish males are often pugnacious and the chicks tend to be more cannibalistic than some breeds. Good Cornish are unique and impressive birds to view. The feathers are short and held closely to the body. Cornish need adequate protection during very cold weather as their feathers offer less insulation than can be found on most other chickens. Because of their short feathers and wide compact bodies, Cornish are deceptively heavy. Due to their shape, good Cornish often experience poor fertility and artificial mating is suggested. Cornish are movers and need space to exercise and develop their muscles. The old males get stiff in their legs if they do not receive sufficient exercise. The females normally go broody but because of their very minimal feathers can cover relatively fewer eggs. They are very protective mothers but are almost too active to be good brood hens. Their skin and shank color is yellow.A short, black Cornish hen.

 

Standard Weights

Cock: 10.5 lbs

Hen: 8 lbs

Cockerel: 8.5 lbs

Pullet: 6.5 lbs

 

Varieties

  • Dark
  • White
  • White Laced Red
  • Buff

 

Egg Shell Color

Two small, light colored Cornish chicks.Pale brown and medium brown.

 

Use

Developed as the ultimate meat bird, the Cornish has contributed its genes to build the vast broiler industry of the world, Its muscle development and arrangement give excellent carcass shape.

 

 

References

Chicken Breeds and Varieties (A2880), John L. Skinner, University of Wisconsin-Madison

 

"Cornish Chicken." The Livestock Conservancy. The Livestock Conservancy, n.d. Web. 23 June 2015.

 

Lewis, Celia. "Breed Profiles: Indian Game/ Cornish Game Hen." The Illustrated Guide to Chickens: How to Choose Them, How to Keep Them. New York: Skyhorse Pub., 2011. 94-95. Print.

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