light breed · Italy
Leghorn (White)
The world's most prolific white-egg layer and the foundation of most commercial laying flocks. Active, alert, and heat-tolerant — but flighty and not fond of being held.
| Size class | light |
|---|---|
| Weight (hen) | 4.5 lb (2.04 kg) |
| Weight (rooster) | 6 lb (2.72 kg) |
| Eggs per year | 290 |
| Egg color | white |
| Egg size | large |
| Climate tolerance | hot |
| Temperament | flighty |
| Goes broody | rarely |
| Noise level | loud |
| Beginner-friendly | No |
| Origin | Italy |
Is the Leghorn (White) right for your flock?
The Leghorn (White) is a light breed that's better suited to experienced keepers. Hens lay around 290 white eggs per year and tolerate hot climates well.
Temperament: flighty. Broodiness: rarely. Noise level: loud. Worth keeping in mind if you have close neighbors.
What this breed needs
- Coop space: about 3 sq ft per bird inside the coop. Run the numbers for your specific flock size in the coop size calculator.
- Climate fit: particularly heat-tolerant; less ideal in long, snowy winters without extra shelter.
- Eggs: a top-tier producer — among the most productive backyard breeds.