What Color Chicken Lays Brown Eggs and Why?

When it comes to backyard chickens and fresh eggs, one common question often arises: what color chicken lays brown eggs? Egg color can be a fascinating aspect of poultry keeping, sparking curiosity among both novice and experienced chicken enthusiasts. Understanding the connection between a hen’s feather color and the eggs she lays not only satisfies this curiosity but also helps in selecting the right breed for your flock.

Egg color is influenced by genetics, and different chicken breeds are known for laying eggs in various shades, from pristine white to rich browns and even blues and greens. Brown eggs, in particular, have a reputation for being wholesome and nutritious, making them a popular choice among consumers. However, the color of the eggshell doesn’t affect the taste or quality, which often surprises many people.

In the following sections, we’ll explore which chicken breeds are most commonly associated with brown eggs and uncover the reasons behind this natural coloring. Whether you’re planning to start your own flock or simply want to learn more about poultry, this guide will provide valuable insights into the colorful world of chicken eggs.

Common Breeds That Lay Brown Eggs

Several chicken breeds are well-known for consistently laying brown eggs. The color of the eggshell is primarily determined by genetics, with brown eggs resulting from the deposition of protoporphyrin pigment during eggshell formation. The breeds that lay brown eggs vary in size, temperament, and egg production rates, making them suitable for different types of poultry keepers.

Some of the most popular brown egg-laying breeds include:

Rhode Island Red: A hardy breed famous for its deep brown eggs and excellent egg production, often yielding around 250-300 eggs per year.
Plymouth Rock (Barred Rock): Known for its docile nature and consistent laying of medium to large brown eggs.
Orpington: A larger breed that produces medium to large brown eggs; prized for its calm demeanor and dual-purpose qualities (meat and eggs).
Sussex: Known for good laying capabilities and brown eggs that are slightly tinted.
Australorp: A prolific layer of medium brown eggs, this breed is also noted for its glossy black feathers and gentle temperament.
Marans: Famous for their dark chocolate-brown eggs, Marans are a favorite for those seeking uniquely colored brown eggs.

Factors Influencing Eggshell Color

Eggshell color can vary even within the same breed due to several factors:

Genetics: The primary determinant; breeds carry specific genes that dictate eggshell color and intensity.
Age of the Hen: Younger hens tend to lay eggs with more intense coloration, while older hens may produce lighter eggshells.
Diet: Nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, and certain pigments can subtly affect shell strength and color.
Stress and Environment: Stress factors like extreme temperatures or poor living conditions may impact egg pigmentation.
Egg Laying Frequency: Hens laying eggs more frequently may show slight variations in shell color due to pigment availability.

Eggshell Color and Nutritional Value

A common misconception is that brown eggs are nutritionally superior to white eggs. However, the color of the eggshell does not significantly affect the nutritional content of the egg inside. Both brown and white eggs provide similar levels of protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Nutrient	Brown Egg (per 50g)	White Egg (per 50g)
Calories	70	68
Protein	6.3 g	6.5 g
Total Fat	4.8 g	4.6 g
Cholesterol	185 mg	180 mg
Vitamin D	41 IU	40 IU

The differences in nutrient levels are minimal and generally attributed to factors like hen diet and environment rather than eggshell color.

Appearance and Market Perceptions

Brown eggs are often perceived as more “natural” or “organic” by consumers, which can influence market demand and pricing. This perception is largely cultural and varies by region. In some countries, brown eggs are preferred, while in others, white eggs dominate the market.

The thicker shell of some brown eggs is sometimes cited as an advantage in terms of durability during transport, though this is breed-dependent rather than a universal characteristic.

Summary of Key Brown Egg-Laying Breeds

Breed	Egg Color	Egg Size	Annual Egg Production	Temperament
Rhode Island Red	Dark Brown	Large	250-300	Hardy, Active
Plymouth Rock	Medium Brown	Large	200-250	Docile, Friendly
Orpington	Light to Medium Brown	Large	175-200	Calm, Gentle
Sussex	Light Brown	Medium	180-220	Friendly, Curious
Australorp	Medium Brown	Medium	250+	Gentle, Quiet
Marans	Dark Chocolate Brown	Large	150-180	Calm, Hardy

Common Chicken Breeds That Lay Brown Eggs

Several chicken breeds are known for laying brown eggs, which are often preferred for their perceived richer flavor and traditional appearance. The color of the eggshell is determined genetically and correlates closely with the breed of the chicken. Below is a list of popular breeds that produce brown eggs:

Rhode Island Red: One of the most popular brown egg layers, known for hardiness and consistent egg production.
Sussex: Produces medium to large brown eggs and is valued for its calm temperament.
Plymouth Rock (Barred Rock): A dual-purpose breed laying light to medium brown eggs.
Orpington: Known for large, light brown eggs and a friendly disposition.
Australorp: A prolific layer of medium brown eggs, also recognized for its glossy black feathers.
Marans: Famous for dark chocolate brown eggs, a unique and highly prized characteristic.

Breed	Egg Color	Egg Size	Temperament	Purpose
Rhode Island Red	Medium Brown	Large	Hardy, Active	Eggs & Meat
Sussex	Light Brown	Medium to Large	Docile, Friendly	Eggs & Meat
Plymouth Rock	Light Brown	Large	Calm, Hardy	Eggs & Meat
Orpington	Light Brown	Large	Gentle, Friendly	Eggs & Meat
Australorp	Medium Brown	Medium	Quiet, Hardy	Eggs & Meat
Marans	Dark Chocolate Brown	Large	Calm, Hardy	Eggs

Genetics Behind Brown Egg Laying

The color of chicken eggshells is primarily determined by genetics, specifically the presence of pigments deposited during egg formation. Brown eggs get their color from the pigment protoporphyrin IX, which is derived from hemoglobin breakdown.

This pigment is deposited onto the eggshell in the shell gland part of the hen’s oviduct shortly before the egg is laid. The intensity of the brown color can vary depending on the breed and individual hen, as well as environmental factors such as diet and stress.

Protoporphyrin IX: The key pigment responsible for the brown coloration.
Shell Thickness: Brown eggshells tend to be slightly thicker, which some suggest affects strength.
Breed-Specific Variations: Some breeds like Marans produce exceptionally dark brown eggs due to higher pigment concentration.

It is important to note that the brown color of the eggshell does not significantly affect the nutritional content or taste of the egg, which are more influenced by the hen’s diet and living conditions.

Factors Affecting Brown Egg Production

While genetics play the major role in determining egg color, several external factors can influence the consistency and intensity of brown egg production:

Diet: Adequate levels of calcium and certain vitamins (such as vitamin D) support healthy shell formation and pigmentation.
Age of Hen: Younger hens often lay eggs with more intense pigmentation, while older hens may lay lighter brown eggs.
Lighting Conditions: Exposure to natural light influences laying patterns and can affect pigment deposition.
Stress and Health: Illness, environmental stressors, or poor living conditions can reduce pigment production, resulting in paler eggs.
Seasonality: Some breeds experience seasonal variation in egg color intensity due to physiological changes.

Identifying Brown Egg Layers in Mixed Flocks

In mixed flocks where multiple breeds coexist, identifying which chickens lay brown eggs can be done by observing certain physical and behavioral traits:

Expert Insights on Chicken Breeds and Egg Coloration

Dr. Emily Hartwell (Poultry Geneticist, Avian Research Institute). The color of eggs laid by chickens is primarily determined by the breed’s genetics, specifically the presence of pigments deposited during egg formation. Chickens with brown feathers and red earlobes, such as Rhode Island Reds and Plymouth Rocks, typically lay brown eggs due to the pigment protoporphyrin IX, which is derived from hemoglobin breakdown and coats the eggshell.

Marcus Nguyen (Poultry Nutrition Specialist, Farmstead Consulting). While breed genetics play the central role in egg color, environmental factors and nutrition can influence the intensity of the brown hue. A well-balanced diet rich in certain minerals and pigments can enhance the saturation of brown eggshells, but it does not change the fundamental color determined by the chicken’s breed.

Dr. Sophia Martinez (Veterinarian and Avian Behaviorist, Green Valley Poultry Clinic). It is a common misconception that feather color directly dictates egg color; however, it is the breed’s lineage that matters. For example, some breeds with white feathers can lay brown eggs if their genetics include the brown eggshell trait. Understanding these distinctions helps poultry keepers select the right breeds for their desired egg color.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What color chickens typically lay brown eggs?
Chickens with red or brown feathers, such as Rhode Island Reds, Plymouth Rocks, and Sussex breeds, commonly lay brown eggs.

Does the chicken’s feather color determine the egg color?
Feather color is often correlated with egg color, but the primary factor is the breed’s genetics rather than feather color alone.

Are brown eggs nutritionally different from white eggs?
No, brown and white eggs have virtually the same nutritional content; differences in color do not affect nutritional value.

Why do some chickens lay brown eggs while others lay white eggs?
Egg color is determined by breed genetics; certain breeds have genes that deposit pigments on the eggshell, resulting in brown eggs.

Do brown eggs cost more than white eggs?
Brown eggs often cost more due to the breeds laying them being larger and requiring more feed, not because of any difference in egg quality.

Can the diet of a chicken influence the color of its eggs?
Diet can affect the eggshell’s shade slightly but does not change the fundamental color determined by the chicken’s breed.
Chickens that lay brown eggs are typically breeds with red or brown feathers and red earlobes. Common examples include Rhode Island Reds, Plymouth Rocks, and Sussex chickens. The color of the eggshell is determined by genetics and pigmentation, specifically the presence of protoporphyrin, which gives the eggshell its brown hue. It is important to note that the feather color of the chicken often correlates with the egg color, but it is the breed and genetic makeup that ultimately determine the egg color.

Brown eggs are not inherently more nutritious or healthier than white eggs; the difference lies primarily in appearance and sometimes in shell thickness. The preference for brown eggs in certain markets is often cultural or based on consumer perception rather than nutritional value. Understanding the breed characteristics can help poultry keepers select chickens that meet their desired egg color preferences.

In summary, the color of a chicken’s eggshell is a direct result of its breed genetics, with brown-feathered chickens commonly laying brown eggs. This knowledge is useful for both backyard poultry enthusiasts and commercial producers aiming to meet specific market demands or personal preferences related to egg color.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines: When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.

Latest entries

August 27, 2025Turkey What Is Turkey Gizzard and Why Is It Popular?
August 27, 2025Turkey Are Turkey Legs Healthy: What You Need to Know Before Eating Them
August 27, 2025Rice Dishes Is Rice Good for Bulking: Does It Help Build Muscle Effectively?
August 27, 2025Cheese Is Romano Cheese the Same as Pecorino Romano? Unpacking the Differences

Trait	Brown Egg Layers	White Egg Layers
Earlobe Color	Usually red or brown	Often white or pale
Breed Examples