The Cream Legbar is a medium-sized, dual-purpose breed that originated in the United Kingdom. It was developed in the early 20th century by Reginald Crundall Punnett and Michael Pease at Cambridge University. Their goal was to create an autosexing bird that could produce a reliable supply of blue eggs. The Cream Legbar remains one of the most practical and visually appealing breeds, known for its pale pastel-blue eggs and elegant appearance.

We are proud to be the first hatchery to release this breed commercially in South Africa. Over the years we have collected and maintained three distinct bloodlines, ensuring that our stock is genetically diverse and not inbred. Parent stock can be viewed on-farm, and Cream Legbar chicks and grow-outs are available on a regular basis throughout the year.

Egg Production

Cream Legbar hens lay a distinctive blue egg, ranging from a soft sky blue to a light turquoise shade. On average, hens produce between 200 and 260 eggs per year. Laying usually begins at around 5 to 6 months of age. The hens are reliable layers and, when well-fed and managed, will maintain good production through most of the year. Cream Legbars are not typically broody, allowing for consistent egg collection across the laying season.

Appearance

Cream Legbars are easily recognised by their elegant cream and grey plumage, upright posture, and distinctive crest. Males have subtle cream barring on silver-grey feathers with hints of gold around the hackle and saddle, while females display soft cream barring over a grey base. Both sexes have a single comb, red wattles, and bright yellow legs. The breed’s autosexing ability allows males and females to be distinguished at day-old by their down colour and pattern, which makes them particularly practical for breeding programmes.

Temperament and Behaviour

This breed is active, intelligent, and curious. Cream Legbars are excellent foragers that thrive in free-range conditions, but they also adapt well to smaller backyard setups. They are confident but not aggressive, making them suitable for mixed flocks. Roosters are alert and protective without being overly dominant, and hens are friendly and easy to handle, especially when raised with regular human interaction.

Suitability and Care

Cream Legbars are hardy and adaptable, performing well in a variety of climates. They are efficient foragers and make good use of pasture, helping to reduce feed costs in free-range systems. Their combination of utility, beauty, and unique blue eggs makes them an ideal choice for smallholders, breeders, and backyard keepers who value both productivity and visual appeal. With proper nutrition and care, they are long-lived, low-maintenance birds that fit easily into most poultry operations.

Livingseeds Genetics

Our Cream Legbar breeding programme is based on three distinct bloodlines to maintain genetic strength and vitality. Each generation is carefully selected for consistent egg colour, body type, and temperament. Because of this approach, our birds are not inbred, ensuring strong, healthy offspring. All breeding flocks are managed on-farm under natural conditions, and parent stock can be viewed on-farm. Regular availability ensures that both chicks and growers are accessible throughout the season.

Summary

The Cream Legbar is a hardy, productive, and visually appealing breed known for its calm temperament and beautiful blue eggs. It is an ideal choice for those wanting an attractive, efficient, and low-maintenance bird that brings colour and character to any flock.