Sussex
For a friendly, curious, productive layer that is also a decent table bird -- Light and Speckled Sussex lay well and are easy to keep.
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Why this fits you
- You want a high-laying heritage breed that is also friendly.
- You like a curious, people-oriented bird.
- You are looking for a good dual-purpose bird that is not common in every flock.
Sussex are an old English dual-purpose breed available in several varieties, notably the Light Sussex (white with black-striped neck feathers) and the Speckled Sussex, a mottled brown, black and white bird. Hens weigh about 7 pounds and lay roughly 250 or more cream to tinted eggs a year. They are known for being friendly, inquisitive and easy to handle.
Eggs and growth
Sussex are among the better heritage layers, with typical production of 250 or more eggs a year when well managed. The eggs are cream to light brown, and the hens lay through much of winter. Because they are a true dual-purpose breed, young cockerels grow into a decent table bird of 8 to 9 pounds.
Temperament
Sussex are inquisitive and sociable. They follow people around the yard, accept handling and generally get along with other breeds. Roosters are usually calm for their breed, though like any rooster they should be treated with caution around children. They tolerate confinement but are happiest when they can forage.
Varieties
The Light Sussex is the production workhorse and the base of many commercial hybrids. The Speckled Sussex is prized for its distinctive plumage that gets more speckled with each moult. Availability varies by hatchery, and varieties are often sold under the same name, so confirm which one you are buying.
Climate, housing and feed
The breed copes with a range of climates, being hardy in cold and reasonably comfortable in warm weather. Allow about 4 to 5 square feet per bird in the coop and 10 or more in the run. A complete layer feed with calcium is enough. Their friendly nature means they can be taken for granted, so keep an eye on weight and watch for the signs of mites and lice.
Who should choose something else
If you want the lowest feed use per egg, a lighter breed such as the Leghorn is more efficient. If you want an extremely gentle lap bird, a Buff Orpington or Silkie is calmer. A Sussex is a strong middle option for a family flock.
How it compares
| Breed | Eggs/yr | Temperament |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Red | 200-300 | Assertive |
| Leghorn | 280-320 | Flighty |
| Buff Orpington | 180-200 | Very calm |
| Australorp | 250+ | Calm |
| Silkie | 100-120 | Very gentle |
| Cornish Cross | n/a (meat) | Docile |
| Brahma | 150-200 | Very calm |
| Barred Plymouth Rock | 200-280 | Calm, curious |
| Easter Egger | 200-280 | Friendly |
| Wyandotte | 200-240 | Calm, steady |
| Sussex | 250+ | Friendly, curious |
| Marans | 150-200 | Calm, hardy |
Buying checklist
- Confirm which Sussex variety you are buying
- Source from a breeder or hatchery that describes its laying line
- Watch weight, since a friendly, food-motivated bird can overeat
Run the numbers
Frequently asked questions
Are Sussex good layers?
Yes. They commonly lay 250 or more eggs a year.
What is the difference between Light and Speckled Sussex?
Light Sussex are white with black neck and tail markings. Speckled Sussex are mottled brown, black and white.
Do Sussex tolerate cold?
Yes. They are hardy and handle cold winters well.
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