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Origin Story

Originating in Surrey, England, the Dorking breed traces its roots back to Roman times around AD 43. It is believed to descend from early European domestic chickens introduced by Roman invaders, making it one of the oldest established British chicken breeds.

Classification

Classified within the domesticated chicken species Gallus gallus domesticus, the Dorking is recognized as a large, dual-purpose breed prized for both meat and eggs. It holds formal recognition from major poultry authorities including the British Poultry Standards and the American Poultry Association since 1874.

Appearance or Form

The Dorking boasts a broad, rectangular body with short legs and a rare fifth toe on each foot, a distinctive trait among chickens. Males typically weigh around 4.55 kg and females about 3.65 kg. Plumage colors include White, Silver-Grey, Red, Cuckoo, and Dark varieties. Its comb is usually large and single, though rose comb types exist. Both skin and legs are white, complementing its stately appearance.

Behavior or Usage

Known for a docile and gentle temperament, the Dorking grows rapidly with efficient feed conversion. It lays a moderate number of large white eggs annually, around 140 to 170, and while not commonly broody, hens can be attentive mothers. The breed is hardy but sensitive to damp conditions due to its short legs, making careful environmental management important.

Merchandise & Prints

Bring this kind into your world � illustrated posters, mugs, and shirts.

Dorking Dorking Poster

Dorking Poster

Archival print, museum-grade paper

Dorking Dorking Mug

Dorking Mug

Stoneware mug, dishwasher safe

Dorking Dorking Shirt

Dorking Shirt

Soft cotton tee, unisex sizes

Attributes & Insights

Taxon-Specific Insights

🌍Cultural Significance

The Dorking holds a revered place in British poultry heritage, celebrated for its historical lineage and valued in poultry exhibitions across the UK and the United States. Its unique physical traits and longstanding presence have made it a symbol of traditional British farming and culinary culture.

📌Notable Facts

  • The Dorking is one of the few chicken breeds with five toes on each foot.
  • It is considered one of the oldest British chicken breeds, dating back to Roman Britain.
  • Its meat is prized for tenderness and flavor, favored in gourmet and roasting dishes.
  • The breed is recognized by major poultry authorities including the APA since 1874.
  • Despite its size, the Dorking has a calm and docile disposition, making it suitable for small farms and exhibitions.

🐔Breeds And Varieties

The Dorking breed includes several recognized plumage varieties: White, Silver-Grey, Red, Cuckoo, and Dark. Each variety adheres to breed standards maintained by poultry authorities, with subtle differences in color patterns but consistent physical traits such as the five-toed feet and body shape.

Visual Variations

High quality studio photograph of a single Dorking from the chicken taxonomy
High quality studio photograph of a single Dorking from the chicken taxonomy
Naturalistic image of a Dorking belonging to the chicken taxonomy in its typical outdoor environment
Naturalistic image of a Dorking belonging to the chicken taxonomy in its typical outdoor environment
Photograph of a Dorking from the chicken taxonomy interacting with humans in a typical farm setting
Photograph of a Dorking from the chicken taxonomy interacting with humans in a typical farm setting
Close-up macro photograph highlighting the feather texture and coloration of a Dorking from the chicken taxonomy
Close-up macro photograph highlighting the feather texture and coloration of a Dorking from the chicken taxonomy
Image depicting eggs laid by a Dorking, contextualized within the chicken taxonomy
Image depicting eggs laid by a Dorking, contextualized within the chicken taxonomy

Composition & Context

Taxon-Specific Insights

🌾Farming And Care

Ideal for small farms and heritage poultry keepers, the Dorking thrives in well-drained environments to avoid issues from dampness. Its docile nature makes handling straightforward, and it benefits from balanced nutrition to support its rapid growth and moderate egg laying. Regular health monitoring is advised, as the breed has average disease resistance.

🍗Culinary Uses

Renowned for its tender and flavorful meat, the Dorking is a preferred choice for roasting and gourmet dishes in Britain. While not a prolific commercial layer, its eggs are valued in small-scale farming. The breed’s dual-purpose qualities make it a versatile addition to specialty markets and culinary traditions.

🛡️Conservation Status

Though not currently classified as endangered, the Dorking is considered a heritage breed with conservation interest. Efforts by poultry clubs and heritage organizations aim to maintain its population through small-scale farming and exhibition, preserving its unique genetic traits and historical significance.

Faq

Q: What makes the Dorking chicken unique?
A: Its distinctive five-toed feet and broad, rectangular body set it apart from most other chicken breeds.

Q: Is the Dorking good for both eggs and meat?
A: Yes, it is a dual-purpose breed valued for moderate egg production and excellent meat quality.

Q: How hardy is the Dorking breed?
A: It is generally hardy but sensitive to damp conditions due to its short legs.