If you’re raising chickens for eggs, you probably have one simple goal: a steady supply you can rely on. Choosing the right egg-laying chickens and supporting them properly can mean the difference between the occasional egg and a full basket week after week.
Whether you’re just getting started or already managing a backyard flock, this guide is designed to help you make smarter breed choices, understand how temperament affects laying, and support year-round egg production with practical, realistic steps. When you start with healthy, well-raised birds from Hillside Hatchery, you’re setting your flock up for long-term success.
If you’re picking egg layers, it’s tempting to focus only on numbers. But if you want steady results, not just a short burst of eggs, there are a few other things that matter just as much.
When choosing backyard chicken breeds, ask yourself:
The best egg-laying breeds for you are those that fit your space, routine, and expectations, not just those with the highest production claims.
Whether you want steady egg production or a flock that’s easier to manage, Hillside Hatchery offers healthy pullets for sale raised in free-range environments that support natural movement, foraging, and overall health. Healthier, less-stressed birds are more consistent layers.
There are some high-production layer chickens available from Hillside Hatchery for you to choose from.
Novogen Browns are a favorite among homesteading poultry enthusiasts who want both high output and calm birds. They lay around 395 large brown eggs in their first 72 weeks and are known for strong feed efficiency. Their calm, adaptable temperament helps reduce flock stress and supports steady laying when nutrition and lighting are consistent.
Novogen Whites lay approximately 335 large to extra-large white eggs per year with excellent feed conversion efficiency. They’re active foragers that do well in warmer climates and produce best in well-managed flocks with predictable routines.
A dependable classic, Barred Rocks can lay up to 327 brown, large to extra-large eggs from 18 to 80 weeks. Their easygoing personality supports flock harmony, and their cold hardiness helps maintain egg production during cooler months.
Ash chickens lay up to 299 brown, large to extra-large eggs between 18 and 80 weeks. They’re steady, adaptable birds that integrate well into most flocks, helping keep stress low and production consistent.
Easter Eggers bring color to your egg basket, producing up to 327 blue, large to extra-large eggs from 18 to 80 weeks old. They’re popular for their friendly, curious personalities and do well in backyard settings. While slightly more variable in appearance, they’re consistent layers when stress is kept low, and nutrition stays balanced.
Olive Eggers, one of the best egg layer breeds, lay up to 325 green, large to extra-large eggs from 18 to 80 weeks. They add variety without sacrificing productivity and do best in calm, predictable environments for steady year-round laying.
Chocolate Eggers supply up to 298 dark chocolate, large to extra-large eggs between 18 and 80 weeks. They’re eye-catching birds that perform well when flock conditions are stable. Their consistent laying improves when you focus on good nutrition, secure housing, and minimizing disruptions, especially during seasonal transitions.
A Rhode Island Red typically produces 290-300 medium to large, light-brown eggs per year. They’re hardy, adaptable, and well-suited for a range of climates. Known for their balanced temperament, Rhode Island Reds handle winter conditions better than many breeds and continue laying more reliably when supported with proper lighting and care.
No matter which breed you choose, Hillside Hatchery’s high-production egg-laying chickens offer the right mix of egg color, temperament, and hardiness for your flock. With proper care, you’ll get fresh eggs year-round.
If you’ve ever dealt with pecking, bullying, or nervous birds, you already know how much chicken temperament affects daily life in the coop.
When your chickens are calm and comfortable:
Choosing breeds known for manageable temperaments makes your job easier and your flock healthier, boosting egg production and improving overall flock management.
Keeping your hens laying through all seasons takes a bit of planning, but it’s easier than you might think. Here’s how you can encourage consistent egg production year-round:
Need more help or additional winter laying tips? Freedom Ranger Hatchery’s care guides offer simple tips to keep your flock thriving no matter the season.
When you choose Hillside Hatchery, you’re getting healthy, free-range egg-laying chickens bred for consistent, year-round production. Our proven breeds are raised to thrive in backyard flocks, giving you reliable eggs, strong genetics, and expert care guidance. Whether you’re new to chicken keeping or expanding your flock, shop with confidence and enjoy fresh eggs every season.