The only commercial brown egg hybrid proven for over 25 years to be genetically suitable for free range

Black Rocks originate from the Harco/Arbor Acres breeders of America. They are a true first-cross hybrid from especially selected strains of Rhode Island Red (male line) and a Barred Plymouth Rock (female line).  Probably the most successful hybrid for modern free range. It has dense feathering a highly developed immune system and good body weight. Peter Siddons of Muirfield Hatchery, Scotland acquired the breeding stock in 1973 and has continued to improve them by careful selection without affecting their essential characteristics.

They have not been bred for a few specific traits or fads, as has been the case with other hybrid breeders. In breeding there comes a stage where selecting for a specific trait results inevitably in the loss of other, often essential characteristics. 

As is the case with other Hybrids, where creating even higher production while at the same time reducing feed consumption by reducing size, has resulted in a loss of shell quality i.e. Thin shells after only 9 to 10 months lay, resulting in an actual lower production of Grade A eggs, unlike the Black Rock, where shell quality and colour is persistently good throughout lay.

All photos taken by Ben & Cathy Wetherden - website created by Cathy Wetherden - Updated June 08