Asturian Painted Hen
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The Asturian Painted Hen (Asturian : Pita pinta Spanish: gallina pinta asturiana) is a breed of chicken originating in Asturias.
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[edit] Etymology of pita
The word come from the Asturian language, in which 'pita' means 'hen'.
[edit] History
In reference to the origin of this breed, it is noticed that all the material corresponds to the Atlantic branch of the species and its origin is related to other chicken breeds in the north of Spain. With industrial avicultural development in the 1950s and 1960s, and the creation of hybrids in order to produce eggs, the number of Asturian Painted Hens fell dramatically to the point of extinction. Fortunately, the breed was saved from extinction in the 1980s by a few enthusiastic traditional hen breeders. At the moment, an Asturian Painted Hen Breeders' Association is in the process of being set up.
[edit] Appearance
Some characteristics of an Asturian Painted Hen are:
- Regular sized crests, small on females.
- Ears are always red.
- Adults' feathers are black with a white edge, giving the charasteristic mottled look.
- Peak and legs are yellow with black spots.
- Eyes are orange.
- Weight is 4-4.5 kg by average for males and 2.7 kg for females.
[edit] Eggs
It is a good, regular layer, tough and responsive to the environment. Eggs are cream-coloured with a soft feel.
[edit] External links
- Lapitapinta.galeon.com Site with pics of the Asturian Painted Hen (in Spanish)
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