Lavender Chicken Breeding Genetics

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Lavender colored chickens are a unique and rare variety of chicken that have recently gained popularity among backyard chicken keepers and poultry enthusiasts. This color is the result of a specific genetic mutation that creates a beautiful and distinctive plumage. In this article, we'll discuss the genetics behind lavender colored chickens and how they are bred.

1. The lavender color is caused by a genetic mutation known as the "lavender" allele. This allele occurs in the gene responsible for the production of eumelanin, which is the pigment that gives chickens their black or dark color.

2. In order to produce lavender colored chickens, breeders will typically crossbreed birds that carry the lavender allele with birds that do not carry the allele. This is known as "splitting" the gene, and it results in some birds having the lavender coloration while others do not.

3. The lavender gene is a recessive gene, which means that in order for a bird to express the lavender coloration, it must carry two copies of the gene, one from each parent. If a bird only carries one copy of the gene, it will not express the lavender coloration, but will be a carrier of the gene.

4. It is important to note that the lavender coloration is not consistent across the entire bird. It is typically only found in the hackle feathers, which are the feathers located on the back of the neck.

5. Lavender colored chickens are not yet recognized as a specific breed by any poultry association, but they are considered a genetic variant of existing breeds such as Plymouth Rock, Rhode Island Red, and Orpingtons.

6. Many breeds are not suitable to breed with the lavender gene, as the gene is not compatible with certain color patterns.

7. As with any breeding program, it is important to keep in mind the health and welfare of the birds, it is recommended to breed only from healthy birds and to use a culling program to eliminate any birds that may have genetic defects or health issues.

In conclusion, Lavender colored chickens are a unique and rare variety of chicken that are the result of a specific genetic mutation. This coloration is caused by the "lavender" allele in the gene responsible for the production of eumelanin. In order to produce lavender colored chickens, breeders will typically crossbreed birds that carry the lavender allele with birds that do not carry the allele. It is important to note that the lavender coloration is not consistent across the entire bird, and it is typically only found in the hackle feathers. It is important to keep in mind the health and welfare of the birds when breeding for this specific color.