Barnevelder Chickens for Sale

Barnevelder Chickens For Sale. Dutch Double-Laced Elegance & Rich Brown Eggs

Barnevelder chickens represent the perfect marriage of form and function—stunning double-laced plumage that turns heads at exhibitions, paired with reliable production of rich, dark brown eggs that make breakfast beautiful. Developed in the Netherlands from a fascinating blend of Asian and European genetics, these Dutch beauties have captivated poultry keepers worldwide with their unique feather patterns and calm, friendly dispositions. At OrderExoticPoultry.com, we offer NPIP-certified, health-guaranteed barnevelder chickens for sale in all major varieties including the classic double laced, rare blue laced, and striking silver laced. Whether you’re seeking exhibition-quality birds or reliable backyard layers, our Barnevelders represent the finest Dutch breeding available in the United States.

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3. What Are Barnevelder Chickens?

Barnevelder chickens are a Dutch breed developed in the town of Barneveld, Netherlands, in the early 20th century. They’re medium-heavy birds weighing 5–7 pounds, known for their distinctive double-laced feather pattern—each feather edged with two bands of contrasting color. They lay large, dark brown eggs (sometimes speckled), possess calm temperaments, and excel in cold climates. Recognized varieties include double laced, blue laced, silver laced, and black, with bantam versions available.

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4. Barnevelder Varieties We Offer

Double Laced Barnevelder Chickens

Description: The classic and most recognized variety, double laced barnevelder chickens display rich, dark brown feathers each edged with two distinct bands of glossy green-black—creating a stunning “double lace” pattern that’s absolutely unique to the breed. Hens show this pattern most distinctly; roosters have less lacing with black breasts and tails.

Temperament: Calm, friendly, and docile. Barnevelders are known for their gentle nature, making them excellent for families and mixed flocks. They’re curious without being flighty and enjoy human interaction.

Purpose: Dual-purpose heritage breed—excellent egg production (180–200 dark brown eggs annually) plus respectable meat yield (5–7 pounds). Exhibition quality when properly marked.

Egg Production: 180–200 large dark brown eggs annually—often speckled. Known for winter laying; they continue producing when many breeds slow down. Egg color darkens as laying season progresses.

Care Requirements: Standard poultry care with attention to leg cleanliness (they have lightly feathered legs). Provide clean, dry bedding to prevent mud accumulation on legs.

Climate Adaptability: Exceptionally cold-hardy due to dense feathering; handles heat well with shade and ventilation. Developed in the Netherlands, they’re built for northern European weather.

Buyer Suitability: Perfect for those wanting beautiful birds with excellent production; exhibition enthusiasts; families; cold climate keepers.

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Blue Laced Barnevelder Chickens

Description: Blue laced barnevelder chickens display stunning slate-blue plumage with darker blue double lacing—a softer, more ethereal version of the classic pattern. The blue dilution creates a dreamy appearance that’s highly sought-after by collectors. True blue laced birds result from specific genetic combinations.

Temperament: Identical to double laced—calm, friendly, and handleable. Blue laced Barnevelders are often particularly striking against green grass.

Purpose: Ornamental excellence; exhibition potential; color breeding programs; reliable egg production.

Egg Production: 180–200 large dark brown eggs annually—same as double laced. The blue color variety doesn’t affect egg production or color.

Care Requirements: Standard care with attention to showing blue plumage best—keep bedding clean to prevent feather staining.

Climate Adaptability: Same excellent cold hardiness; handles all U.S. climates with proper management.

Buyer Suitability: Color collectors, exhibition enthusiasts, and those wanting something uniquely beautiful.

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Silver Laced Barnevelder Chickens

Description: Silver laced barnevelder chickens display white/silver feathers with glossy black double lacing—a crisp, high-contrast pattern that’s absolutely stunning. This variety is rarer than the classic double laced and highly prized by exhibition breeders.

Temperament: Same calm, friendly nature as all Barnevelders—gentle and easy to handle.

Purpose: Exhibition excellence; rare color preservation; beautiful flock additions.

Egg Production: 180–200 large dark brown eggs annually—same as other varieties.

Care Requirements: Standard care; their crisp pattern shows best when birds are healthy and well-fed. White feathers require extra attention to cleanliness.

Climate Adaptability: Same excellent hardiness; white feathers reflect heat well in summer.

Buyer Suitability: Exhibition enthusiasts, serious color collectors, and those wanting high-contrast beauty.

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Blue Double Laced Barnevelder Chickens

Description: Blue double laced barnevelder chickens represent the pinnacle of Barnevelder breeding—birds that combine the double laced pattern with blue base color, creating a subtle but stunning effect. The lacing is darker blue on a lighter blue background.

Temperament: Same docile, friendly nature—these rare beauties are as sweet as they are striking.

Purpose: Collector’s items; exhibition showstoppers; breeding program foundation for rare color genetics.

Egg Production: 180–200 large dark brown eggs annually.

Care Requirements: Standard care with extra protection given their rarity and value.

Climate Adaptability: Same excellent hardiness.

Buyer Suitability: Serious collectors, exhibition breeders, and those wanting the rarest Barnevelder variety.

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Black Barnevelder Chickens

Description: Solid black Barnevelders with beetle-green sheen, maintaining the breed’s characteristic body type and lightly feathered legs. Less common than laced varieties but recognized in some standards.

Temperament: Same calm, friendly disposition.

Purpose: Breeding programs; solid color variety preservation; dual-purpose production.

Egg Production: 180–200 large dark brown eggs annually.

Care Requirements: Standard care.

Climate Adaptability: Same excellent hardiness.

Buyer Suitability: Breeders maintaining color lines; those preferring solid colors.

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White Barnevelder Chickens

Description: Pure white Barnevelders with clean plumage and the same medium-heavy body type. Rare but striking.

Temperament: Same calm nature.

Purpose: Exhibition; color variety preservation.

Egg Production: 180–200 large dark brown eggs annually.

Care Requirements: White feathers require extra cleanliness.

Climate Adaptability: Excellent heat tolerance due to white color.

Buyer Suitability: Exhibitors; those wanting white birds with dark egg production.

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Bantam Barnevelder Chickens

Description: Miniature versions of standard Barnevelders, weighing 26–30 ounces for hens, 30–34 ounces for roosters. Available in all color varieties: double laced, blue laced, silver laced, and blue double laced.

Temperament: Often even more personable than standards; their small size makes them excellent pets.

Purpose: Ornamental companions; small-scale egg production; exhibition.

Egg Production: 120–150 small to medium dark brown eggs annually.

Care Requirements: Same care principles scaled down; more vulnerable to predators.

Climate Adaptability: Same cold hardiness with extra winter protection due to size.

Buyer Suitability: Those with limited space; families with children; collectors.

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5. Comparison: Barnevelder vs. Similar Dark Egg Layers

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. Why Choose OrderExoticPoultry.com

Health Guarantees

Every Barnevelder chicken ships with our comprehensive 48-hour health guarantee. We personally inspect each bird before shipping and stand behind their condition upon arrival.

NPIP Compliance

Our breeding facilities maintain active National Poultry Improvement Plan certification (NPIP #XX-XXXX), ensuring your birds come from pullorum-typhoid clean stock. We provide official documentation with every shipment.

Rare Color Varieties

We maintain separate breeding programs for double laced, blue laced, silver laced, blue double laced, and bantam Barnevelders—one of the widest selections available in the United States.

Ethical Breeding Standards

We limit breeding pairs to preserve genetic diversity and prevent inbreeding. Our Barnevelders receive spacious housing, natural lighting, premium nutrition, and individual attention throughout development.

Live Arrival Guarantee

We guarantee live delivery of all poultry shipments to all 50 states. Our shipping team coordinates with USPS, UPS, and specialized carriers to minimize transit time and maximize comfort.

U.S. Shipping Expertise

With thousands of successful shipments across all climates, we understand the logistics of safe poultry transport. We monitor weather patterns nationwide and delay shipments when conditions threaten bird safety.

Transparency & Trust Signals

• Open farm visits by appointment

• Verified customer reviews

• Third-party health certifications

• Detailed breeding records and lineage documentation

• Member of American Poultry Association

• Active participant in heritage breed conservation

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. Shipping & Delivery Across the U.S.

Safe Transport Methods

All Barnevelder chickens ship in USDA-approved ventilated containers designed for live poultry transport. Chicks receive hydrated gel packs for moisture during transit; adult birds ship in divided compartments preventing injury. We include heat packs in cold weather and cooling elements in summer.

What Customers Receive

• Healthy, inspected Barnevelders matching your exact color order

• NPIP certification documentation with flock ID

• Detailed feeding and care transition instructions

• Breed information card with characteristics

• Dark egg layer feeding guide

• Contact information for post-arrival support

• Discount code for future orders

Timeline Expectations

• Day-old chicks: Ship Monday–Wednesday via priority mail; arrive within 2–3 days

• Started pullets (8–16 weeks): Scheduled shipments based on weather; typically 1–3 day transit

• Adult birds and breeding pairs: Custom shipping; 1–2 day express delivery

• Hatching eggs: Weekly shipments with tracking and insurance

Buyer Reassurance

We monitor weather conditions nationwide and delay shipments when temperatures threaten bird safety. Our shipping team contacts every buyer with tracking information and arrival preparation instructions.

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. Barnevelder Care Guide

Housing Requirements

Space Needs:

• Standard Barnevelders: 4 square feet per bird inside coop, 10 square feet per bird in runs

• Bantam Barnevelders: 2–3 square feet per bird inside, 6–8 square feet per bird in runs

• For 6 standard Barnevelders: 24 sq ft coop, 60 sq ft run minimum

Coop Specifications:

• Roosting bars: 8–10 inches per bird; 2×2 inch or wider flat bars

• Nest boxes: One per 4–5 hens; 12×12×12 inches minimum

• Ventilation: Adequate roof-level ventilation without drafts

• Bedding: Pine shavings, hemp, or straw—keep clean for lightly feathered legs

Feathered Leg Care:

• Barnevelders have lightly feathered legs (less than Cochins but still present)

• Keep bedding clean and dry to prevent matting

• Check legs weekly for accumulated debris

• Provide dry areas in winter to prevent ice balls

Predator-Proofing:

• Use ½-inch hardware cloth (not chicken wire)

• Bury fencing 12 inches deep with outward apron

• Secure all latches with predator-proof locks

• Automatic coop doors prevent night predation

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Feeding Protocol

Age-Appropriate Nutrition:

Dark Egg Color Nutrition:

• Dark egg color is partially genetic, partially nutritional

• Provide consistent layer feed with adequate calcium

• Darker eggs often occur later in laying season

• Speckling varies by individual

Supplemental Foods:

• Greens: Kale, lettuce, spinach, chopped forage

• Vegetables: Pumpkin, squash, carrots

• Fruits: Berries, melon (limited)

• Protein: Black soldier fly larvae (treats only)

Water Requirements:

• Fresh, clean water daily

• Heated waterers in freezing conditions

• Clean waterers weekly

• Multiple stations in summer

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Health Management

Common Health Issues:

• External parasites: Mites, lice—check under feathers regularly

• Internal parasites: Worms—regular deworming program

• Respiratory infections: Watch for sneezing, wheezing

• Foot problems: Check feathered legs for mites, matting

Preventive Care:

• Weekly health inspections

• Clean coop monthly with deep clean quarterly

• Dust bath areas (diatomaceous earth mixed with sand/soil)

• Quarantine new birds 30 days

• Trim excessive leg feathers if trapping debris

Signs of Healthy Barnevelders:

• Bright, clear eyes

• Clean, glossy feathers with crisp lacing

• Active foraging behavior

• Regular egg production

• Clear nostrils

• Good appetite

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Breeding Management

Color Genetics:

Breeding Ratios:

• Standard: 1 rooster per 8–10 hens

• For show-quality: 1 rooster per 5–6 hens

Incubation Guidelines:

• Fertility check: 7–10 days after introducing rooster

• Collect eggs daily, store pointed-end down at 55–60°F

• Incubation period: 21 days

• Temperature: 99.5°F (forced air)

• Humidity: 45–50% days 1–18, 65–70% days 19–21

• Turn eggs 3–5 times daily through day 18

Chick Identification:

• Day-old chicks show base color (black, yellow, etc.)

• Lacing patterns develop with juvenile molts (4–6 months)

• Sexing possible by 8–12 weeks via comb and feather development

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Seasonal Management

Spring:

• Breeding season begins

• Increase protein slightly

• Prepare for chick season

• Deep clean coops after winter

Summer:

• Provide shade and ventilation

• Frozen treats

• Ensure constant cool water

• Watch for heat stress

Fall:

• Annual molt (feather loss and regrowth)

• Increase protein during molt

• Prepare coops for winter

• Deep clean before winter

Winter:

• Heated waterers essential

• Deep litter method for warmth

• Check feathered legs for ice accumulation

• Supplemental lighting for continued production

• Barnevelders excel in cold—they’re Dutch!

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. FAQ Section: Barnevelder Chickens

Appearance & Identification

Q: What do barnevelder chickens look like?
A: Barnevelder chickens are medium-heavy birds with distinctive double-laced feathers—each feather edged with two bands of contrasting color. Hens display the pattern most clearly. They have yellow legs with light feathering, single combs, and reddish-bay eyes. Standard color is dark brown with black double lacing.

Q: What colors do barnevelder chickens come in?
A: Barnevelders come in several varieties: double laced (dark brown with black lacing), blue laced (slate blue with darker blue lacing), silver laced (white/silver with black lacing), blue double laced, black, and white. Bantam versions available in all colors.

Q: What is a double laced barnevelder chicken?
A: A double laced Barnevelder has feathers with two distinct bands of lacing—each feather is edged with two rings of contrasting color, usually black on a dark brown base. This unique pattern is the breed’s signature characteristic and is most prominent in hens.

Q: What is the difference between double laced and blue laced barnevelders?
A: Double laced Barnevelders have dark brown feathers with black double lacing. Blue laced Barnevelders have slate-blue feathers with darker blue double lacing—a softer, diluted color pattern. Both have the same double-laced pattern, just different base colors.

Q: How can you tell a male from a female barnevelder?
A: Males (roosters) are larger (6–7 lbs vs. 5–6 lbs), have larger combs and wattles, pointed hackle and saddle feathers, and show less lacing (often solid black breasts). Females show the classic double-laced pattern clearly, have rounded feathers, and smaller combs.

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Egg Production

Q: What color eggs do barnevelder chickens lay?
A: Barnevelder chickens lay large eggs in shades of dark brown, often with darker speckles. Egg color can vary from medium to very dark brown, with some hens producing richly pigmented eggs. The brown color is surface-deposited and can sometimes be rubbed off when wet.

Q: How many eggs do barnevelder chickens lay per year?
A: Barnevelder hens lay approximately 180–200 large brown eggs annually, averaging 3–4 eggs weekly. They’re reliable layers for a heritage breed, with good winter production. Well-bred lines can achieve higher numbers with excellent management.

Q: When do barnevelder chickens start laying eggs?
A: Barnevelder pullets typically begin laying between 5–7 months of age (20–28 weeks). Factors affecting onset include hatch season, nutrition, and individual genetics. Spring-hatched chicks often start in fall.

Q: Do barnevelder chickens lay eggs in winter?
A: Yes, Barnevelders are known for good winter laying. Developed in the Netherlands, they’re bred for cold climate production. With 14–16 hours of supplemental lighting, they continue producing through winter, though at slightly reduced rates.

Q: Are barnevelder chickens good layers?
A: Yes, Barnevelders are considered excellent layers for a heritage dual-purpose breed. At 180–200 eggs annually, they rival many production breeds while offering superior beauty and temperament. They’re particularly valued for their dark brown eggs and winter laying ability.

Q: How long do barnevelder chickens lay eggs?
A: Barnevelders lay productively for 3–5 years, with peak production in years 1–2. Year one: 180–200 eggs; year two: 160–180 eggs; year three: 140–160 eggs; years four and beyond: declining production. Many continue laying sporadically for 6–7 years.

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Temperament & Behavior

Q: Are barnevelder chickens friendly?
A: Yes, Barnevelders are known for their calm, friendly dispositions. They’re curious, handleable, and enjoy human interaction. With regular handling from chick stage, they become exceptionally tame. They’re excellent choices for families and mixed flocks.

Q: Are barnevelder chickens good with children?
A: Absolutely. Barnevelders’ gentle temperament, manageable size (5–7 pounds), and tolerance of handling make them ideal for families with children. They’re not flighty or aggressive, accepting gentle interaction. Always supervise children with any poultry.

Q: Are barnevelder chickens noisy?
A: Barnevelders are moderately quiet—about average for chicken breeds. Hens communicate with soft clucks and sing typical egg songs. Roosters crow like any rooster but aren’t exceptionally loud. They’re suitable for suburban settings.

Q: Do barnevelder chickens go broody?
A: Barnevelders have moderate broodiness tendencies. Some lines retain stronger maternal instincts than others. They’re not as broody as Cochins or Silkies, but individual hens may set eggs reliably. Broody Barnevelders make good mothers.

Q: Are barnevelder chickens aggressive?
A: No, Barnevelders are not aggressive. They’re consistently rated among the more docile breeds. Roosters can be protective but are generally manageable. Hens rarely show aggression toward humans or flock mates.

Q: Can barnevelder chickens fly?
A: Barnevelders are moderate fliers—they can clear 4–5 foot fences if motivated. Their medium weight limits flight capability. For containment, 5-foot fencing usually suffices. Clip one wing if keeping them in lower enclosures.

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Care & Management

Q: How long do barnevelder chickens live?
A: With proper care—predator protection, quality nutrition, clean housing, and healthcare—Barnevelder chickens live 8–10 years on average. Exceptional individuals may reach 12+ years. Egg production declines after 3–5 years, but they remain beautiful flock members.

Q: Are barnevelder chickens cold hardy?
A: Yes, Barnevelders are exceptionally cold hardy due to their Dutch origins and dense feathering. Their single combs can be susceptible to frostbite—apply petroleum jelly in extreme cold. Provide draft-free but ventilated housing. They thrive in northern states.

Q: Are barnevelder chickens heat tolerant?
A: Barnevelders have moderate heat tolerance. Their dense feathering requires shade, ventilation, and ample water in summer. Light-colored varieties (silver laced) handle heat better than dark varieties. Provide frozen treats and multiple water sources.

Q: What kind of coop do barnevelder chickens need?
A: Barnevelders need standard coops with 4 square feet per bird inside, 10 square feet in runs. Provide roosting bars (8–10 inches per bird), nest boxes (one per 4–5 hens), and predator-proof construction. Their lightly feathered legs need clean, dry bedding.

Q: How much space do barnevelder chickens need?
A: Minimum space: 4 square feet per bird inside, 10 square feet per bird in run. For 6 Barnevelders: 24 sq ft coop, 60 sq ft run minimum. More space always better. They enjoy foraging and exploring.

Q: What do barnevelder chickens eat?
A: Feed age-appropriate complete poultry feeds: chick starter (0–8 weeks, 20–22% protein), grower (8–20 weeks, 16–18%), layer feed (20+ weeks, 16% with calcium). Supplement with greens, vegetables, and limited treats. Provide free-choice grit and oyster shell.

Q: How to sex barnevelder chickens?
A: Sexing Barnevelder chicks requires experience. By 8–12 weeks, males develop larger combs and wattles, grow pointed hackle feathers, and show less lacing. Females show clearer lacing patterns, rounded feathers, and smaller combs. Some strains are autosexing (sex-linked color differences at hatch).

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Purchasing & Breeding

Q: Where can I buy barnevelder chickens?
A: OrderExoticPoultry.com offers NPIP-certified Barnevelder chickens in double laced, blue laced, silver laced, blue double laced, and bantam varieties. We ship nationwide with live arrival guarantees. When buying elsewhere, verify NPIP certification and ask about color genetics.

Q: How much do barnevelder chickens cost?
A: Barnevelder prices vary by color and quality. Common colors (double laced): $10–20 per chick. Rare colors (blue laced, silver laced): $20–35 per chick. Started pullets: $30–50. Breeding pairs: $75–200+ depending on color and quality. Show-quality birds: $200–500+.

Q: What is the rarest barnevelder color?
A: Blue double laced Barnevelders are among the rarest, requiring both blue dilution and double lacing genetics. Silver laced is also relatively rare. Availability varies by breeding season and success.

Q: Are barnevelder chickens rare?
A: Double laced Barnevelders are moderately available in the U.S. Blue laced, silver laced, and blue double laced varieties are genuinely rare, with limited breeding populations. They’re sought-after by collectors and exhibition breeders.

Q: Can I breed barnevelder chickens?
A: Yes, Barnevelders breed readily. Understanding color genetics helps predict offspring for laced patterns. Maintain 1 rooster per 8–10 hens for fertility. Incubation period 21 days. Select breeding stock for pattern quality and egg color.

Q: Where do barnevelder chickens come from?
A: Barnevelder chickens originated in the town of Barneveld, Netherlands, in the early 20th century. They were developed from local Dutch chickens crossed with Asian breeds including Cochins, Brahmas, and possibly Croad Langshans, aiming to create a dual-purpose breed with dark brown eggs.

Q: Are barnevelder chickens a heritage breed?
A: Yes, Barnevelders qualify as a heritage breed, meeting American Poultry Association standards with natural mating capability, long productive lifespan, and slow growth rate. They’re included in conservation programs and recognized by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy.

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Practical Information

Q: Are barnevelder chickens good for beginners?
A: Yes, Barnevelders are excellent for beginners. Their calm temperament, moderate care requirements, and reliable egg production make them ideal for new chicken keepers. They’re forgiving, adaptable, and beautiful—perfect for learning poultry husbandry.

Q: How many barnevelder chickens should I start with?
A: Start with 3–6 hens for a backyard flock. For egg production: 4–5 hens provide approximately 12–18 eggs weekly during peak season. For breeding, start with an unrelated trio (1 rooster, 2–3 hens) from quality stock.

Q: What is the best coop setup for barnevelder chickens?
A: Best coop features: 4 sq ft/bird inside, predator-proof construction, ventilation near roof, sturdy roosting bars, nest boxes (one per 4–5 hens), clean bedding (especially for feathered legs), and secure run access.

Q: Do barnevelder chickens need a rooster to lay eggs?
A: No, hens lay eggs completely independently of roosters. A rooster is only needed for fertilized eggs for hatching. Without a rooster, your hens will lay just as many eggs for eating.

Q: What predators eat barnevelder chickens?
A: Common predators: raccoons, foxes, coyotes, dogs, hawks, owls, minks, weasels, snakes, opossums, and rats. Provide secure housing with hardware cloth and night-locking.

Q: Can barnevelder chickens live in hot climates?
A: Yes, with proper precautions. Provide deep shade, ventilation, multiple water sources, and frozen treats. Light-colored varieties (silver laced) handle heat better than dark varieties. Their Dutch origins mean they prefer cooler weather but adapt to heat with good management.

Add Dutch Elegance to Your Flock

Rare Color Selection: We offer the widest selection of Barnevelder varieties available—classic double laced, stunning blue laced, striking silver laced, and ultra-rare blue double laced, plus bantam versions.

Current Availability:

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Secure Your Barnevelders Today:

1. Browse available varieties and select your favorites

2. Choose quantity and age (day-old chicks, started pullets, breeding pairs)

3. Place your order with secure deposit

4. Receive confirmation and estimated shipment date

5. Welcome your Dutch beauties with our comprehensive care guide

Breeder Programs:

Developing a color breeding program? We offer:

• Wholesale pricing on breeding trios and flocks

• Genetic consultation for specific color outcomes

• Lineage documentation and breeding records

• Ongoing breeder support

Early Reservations Recommended

Rare colors (blue laced, silver laced, blue double laced) sell out quickly often before hatch. Contact us to reserve your place in upcoming hatches.

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ORDER BARNEVELDER CHICKENS NOW

NPIP Certified • Live Arrival Guaranteed • Rare Color Varieties • Nationwide Shipping

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Why Choose Us for Your Barnevelders?

• All major varieties—double laced, blue laced, silver laced, blue double laced

• Documented breeding programs for color purity

• Health-guaranteed, NPIP-certified birds

• Expert shipping with live arrival guarantee

• Ongoing support from Barnevelder specialists

Questions? Our poultry specialists are standing by to help you select the perfect Barnevelders for your flock. Call, email, or chat for personalized recommendations.