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Rhode island red (Gallus gallus domesticus)
It is also known as Rhode Islands, Golden Buffs, John Macomber Fowls or Tripp Fowls.
A) Taxonomical info
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Galliformes
Family: Phasianidae
Genus: Gallus
Species: G. gallus
B. Morphological / distribution/ habitat info
Morphology
The color of the plumage of the traditional Rhode Island red ranges from a lustrous deep red to almost black; the tail is mostly black. The comb may be either single or rose-comb; it is vivid red, as are the earlobes and wattles. The beak is a reddish horn color, the eyes are reddish bay, and the feet and legs are yellow, often with some red on the toes and sides of the shanks.
Distribution
The Rhode Island Red is a type of chicken from America and is the official state bird of Rhode Island. Farmers created it there and in Massachusetts a long time ago (late 1800s) by mixing chickens from Asia (like the Malay) with brown chickens from Italy (Leghorns). It was originally a good-for-both chicken, giving both meat and lots of eggs. Today, most of these chickens are raised just because they are excellent egg layers. The older, pure types of Rhode Island Reds are watched closely by a group called The Livestock Conservancy to make sure they don't disappear. Finally, it is not the same as the Rhode Island White chicken.
Habitat Info
The Rhode Island Red Chicken is a domesticated version of the red junglefowl which traditionally lived in forests in southeast Asia. The domesticated Rhode Island Chicken can today be found worldwide in urban and rural farms and homes.
C. Traditional Uses / TK-related info
Egg Production
It is one of the best heritage breeds for consistently producing large, brown eggs. Hens are known to lay between 200 to 300 eggs per year, making them a top choice for homesteaders and small-scale farms.
Meat Source
With roosters weighing up to 8.5 lbs and hens up to 6.5 lbs, they provide a respectable carcass for the table. This makes them an efficient choice for those who want a single breed to cover both egg and meat needs.
Research Model
For scientists to study disease and develop veterinary vaccines and treatments.
D. Any related scientific studies, such as ecology/ conservation status/threats/diversity
Health Management
First is vaccination to ensure vaccinations for common diseases like Marek’s disease. Second, deworming to performed routine deworming every 6 months. Third, parasite control that is use diatomaceous earth in bedding to deter mites (Afroz, 2025).
Tips for Maximizing Egg Production
Nutrition: Provide a balanced diet rich in protein (16-18%).
Lighting: Ensure 14-16 hours of light daily for optimal laying.
Housing: Maintain clean and comfortable nesting boxes.
Health Checks: Regularly inspect for mites, lice, and other parasites.
Water Supply: Always keep fresh water available.
IUCN
No record
References
Afroz, F. (2025, January 17). Rhode Island Red: A comprehensive guide. Poultry Vetcare. https://poultryvetcare.com/rhode-island-red/#:~:text=The%20Rhode%20Island%20Red%20is%20one%20of%20the,characteristics%2C%20care%20requirements%2C%20and%20benefits%2C%20offering%20actionable%20tips
Harvey, E. (2024, March 24). Rhode Island Red: Breed Profile, Facts & Care Guide. Daily Chickens. https://dailychickens.com/rhode-island-red/
Imler, P. (2025, August 8). Rhode Island Red | Animal Kingdom. Animal Kingdom - Animal Kingdom. https://animalkingdom.org/species/rhode-island-red/
Kumar, B. (2025, November 1). Rhode Island Red: Chicken breed, eggs, color, size, pictures. ChickenJournal. https://chickenjournal.com/rhode-island-red-chicken/
Rhode Island Red Chicken. Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. https://www.beardsleyzoo.org/rhode-island-red-chicken.html#:~:text=Habitat%3A%20The%20Rhode%20Island%20Red%20Chicken%20is%20a,worldwide%20in%20urban%20and%20rural%20farms%20and%20homes