Australorp

An Australian breed of dual-purpose utility chicken, developed from the British Black Orpington through selective breeding aimed at egg-laying performance, with some hens laying more than 300 eggs a year. The breed achieved worldwide fame in the 1920s after breaking numerous world records for egg production and has remained popular across the Western world ever since. It is one of eight poultry breeds created in Australia and recognized by the Australian Poultry Standards; its original plumage is black, the only color recognized in the United States, while Australia also recognizes blue and white, and the Poultry Club of South Africa additionally accepts buff, splash, wheaten laced and golden varieties.