The Barred Olive Egger is a unique hybrid developed by Livingseeds Hatchery. It is a first generation (F1) cross between a blue-egg layer and a dark brown-egg layer, designed to produce attractive dark green eggs while exhibiting a barred plumage pattern. These birds are not an established breed but rather a creative hybrid offering striking egg colours and feather patterning.

Egg Production and Broodiness

Barred Olive Egger hens are reliable layers, producing approximately 250 medium to large dark green eggs per year. The eggs may also have speckles, an appealing but not guaranteed trait. These hens have a tendency to go broody occasionally, though not as often or as consistently as traditional broody breeds.

Appearance

This hybrid resembles a barred Koekoek due to its striped feather pattern. However, it differs from a Koekoek in several ways. The leg colour is dark slate, not yellow. Barred Olive Eggers often have much larger combs than Koekoeks, and many exhibit feathered legs inherited from their Marans ancestors. The combination of barred plumage, dark legs, prominent combs, and feathered shanks makes them visually distinctive.

Temperament and Behaviour

Barred Olive Eggers are generally hardy and adaptable. They thrive in free-range systems and enjoy foraging. Their temperament tends to be balanced, not overly flighty nor aggressive, allowing them to integrate well into mixed flocks. Their broody tendencies can be a bonus for those wanting natural chick-rearing, but they are not excessively broody.

Suitability and Care

These birds are well-suited to environments where both space for foraging and consistent egg production are desired. They remain adaptable to varied climates and conditions. The striking dark green eggs make them particularly popular for those seeking a decorative or rainbow-coloured egg collection. As hybrids, individual appearance and behaviour can vary depending on the parent breeds involved, but their utility and novelty make them a valued addition to the flock.

Summary

The Barred Olive Egger is a distinctive first-generation hybrid notable for:

• Approximately 250 medium to large dark green eggs per year

• Occasional broodiness

• Barred plumage with dark slate legs, feathered shanks, and larger combs

• Balanced temperament and excellent foraging ability

• Attractive novelty value for mixed flocks and colourful egg displays

These birds offer both visual appeal and practical utility, making them a creative and effective choice for keepers looking to diversify their flock’s egg colours and feather patterns.