Author: TBN Ranch

Chicken Keeper in Phoenix, Arizona, with special interest in Silkie Bantams. Offering valuable resources to fellow chicken enthusiasts since 2012.

Ancona Breed Characteristics


Primary purpose: Egg laying
Eggs: White; prolific (often 4–6/week)
Size: Medium
Rooster : 6 lb (2.7 kg)
Hen : 4–4.5 lb (2–2.5 kg)
Plumage: Black with white mottling (white-tipped feathers increase with age)
Comb: Single or rose (both accepted)
Legs & skin: Yellow (often dark-mottled legs)
Earlobes: White to cream
Temperament: Alert, active, independent; not typically cuddly
Foraging: Excellent; thrives free-ranging
Broodiness: Rare
Hardiness: Robust and adaptable; single combs can be frost sensitive
Noise level: Moderate

Temperament & Behavior

Active & alert: Anconas are lively, energetic birds that love to forage and explore.
Flighty Nature: They’re good flyers and can easily fly fences if not confined.
Space needs: Prefer plenty of space and freedom to range.

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A Short Video of Our Chicken Coop Set-up

Just a quick visit to our coop in the Sonoran Desert

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Short Video of Predators Caught on Camera on Our Hobby Farm

It’s a Jungle Out There!

There really isn’t anywhere chickens are safe from predators, not even in the city. We live in a highly populated area of Phoenix, Arizona, and despite the freeways, heavy traffic, and dense housing, we still have unwanted predators visiting nearly every day. I haven’t been able to get a clear photo of the coyotes that are constantly around, mostly because they show up around 3 a.m., but eventually I’ll capture some footage and post that as well.
We don’t discourage wildlife from sharing nature; we simply outsmart them when it comes to protecting our hens.

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