7 Best Cold-Hardy Egg Laying Chickens (With Real Winter Results)

Last updated on August 7, 2025

The best cold-hardy egg laying chickens are Australorp, Plymouth Rock, Wyandotte, Lohmann Brown, Rhode Island Red, Sussex, and Orpington—these breeds reliably lay eggs through winter when others slow down.

If you’ve ever trudged out to the coop on a frosty morning, hoping for fresh eggs, only to find empty nesting boxes, you’re not alone. Winter can be tough on chickens—and even tougher on egg production. But here’s the good news: with the right breeds and a few smart strategies, you can keep your egg basket full even when the temperature drops.

Best Breeds at a Glance

Breed	Eggs/Year	Cold-Hardy Traits	My Experience / Notes
Australorp	250–300	Dense feathers, small comb	4–5 eggs/week in January; never missed a week in my flock
Plymouth Rock	200–280	Fluffy, tight feathering, small comb	3–4 eggs/week in sub-zero temps; friendly in mixed flocks
Wyandotte	200–240	Rose comb, thick plumage	3 eggs/week in January; calm, never frostbitten
Lohmann Brown	280–320	Good feathering, robust health	5+ eggs/week even in cold snaps; very feed-efficient
Rhode Island Red	250–300	Dense feathers, hardy	4 eggs/week in snow; always foraging, even in winter
Sussex	220–260	Soft, thick feathers	3 eggs/week in January; gentle, great with kids
Orpington	200–280	Abundant feathering, large body	3–4 eggs/week; calm, “lap chicken” personality

Table showing the top cold-hardy chicken breeds, their average eggs per year, cold-hardy traits, and real-world winter laying experience.

Summary:
These breeds are proven to keep laying when the temperature drops, thanks to their dense feathers, small or rose combs (less frostbite), and calm personalities. If you want reliable eggs all winter, start your flock with one or more of these hardy hens.

Why Egg Production Drops in Winter

Egg production drops in winter because chickens need 14–16 hours of daylight to lay consistently, and cold weather makes them use more energy to stay warm instead of producing eggs.

Less Daylight

• Chickens need 14–16 hours of light to lay consistently.
• Shorter days mean less stimulation for egg-laying hormones.

Cold Stress

• Hens use more energy to stay warm, leaving less for egg production.
• Some breeds handle cold better than others.

Molting

• Many hens molt in late fall, losing feathers and pausing egg laying to regrow them.

Breed Differences

• Not all chickens are built for winter. Cold-hardy breeds keep laying, while others take a break.

“Chickens are photoperiodic, which means their reproductive cycle is controlled by the length of daylight. When days get shorter, egg production naturally declines.”
— Dr. Jacquie Jacob, University of Kentucky Extension

Quick Fact: Average eggs per year depends on breed, age, and season. Winter can cut production in half for some breeds!

What Makes a Chicken Breed Cold Hardy?

Not all chickens are created equal when it comes to winter weather. Here’s what to look for in a cold-hardy breed:

• Small combs and wattles: Less risk of frostbite.
• Dense feathering: Traps heat and keeps birds warm.
• Larger body size: More mass helps retain warmth.
• Calm temperament: Less stress, more energy for eggs.
• Heritage breeds: Often more resilient to cold.

“Breeds with small combs and wattles, such as Wyandottes and Orpingtons, are less susceptible to frostbite and generally do better in cold climates.”
— Dr. Darrin Karcher, Purdue University Extension

Top 7 Best Cold-Hardy Egg Laying Chickens

1. Australorp

If you want a chicken that’s both a champion layer and a gentle companion, the Australorp is hard to beat. Originally from Australia, this breed is famous for breaking world records in egg production and is beloved for its calm, friendly nature. Australorps are the kind of birds that make backyard chicken keeping a joy, especially when winter sets in.

Australorp at a Glance:

• Eggs/year: 250–300 (Source: University of Missouri Extension)
• Egg color: Light brown
• Cold Hardy: Yes
• Temperament: Calm, gentle
• Learn more: At What Age Do Australorps Start Laying Eggs?

Egg Production in Winter

Australorps are famous for their record-breaking egg production. Even in January, my flock averaged 4–5 eggs per hen per week.

Cold-Hardy Traits

• Dense, glossy black feathers trap heat.
• Small combs rarely frostbite.

My Experience

My Australorps have never let me down, even during a surprise frost. They’re the first to greet me in the morning, and the last to stop laying.

Australorps are also less likely to develop frostbite on their combs, making them a safe bet for beginners in cold climates. If you want a breed that’s both productive and low-maintenance, this is it.

“My Wyandottes and Australorps have always been my most reliable winter layers. They don’t seem to mind the snow at all.”
— Lisa Steele, Fresh Eggs Daily

2. Plymouth Rock

Plymouth Rocks are true American classics—hardy, dependable, and easy to recognize with their striking barred feathers. These birds have been a staple on homesteads for generations, prized for their adaptability and steady egg production. If you want a breed that thrives in both cold and confinement, the Plymouth Rock is a top pick.

Plymouth Rock at a Glance:

• Eggs/year: 200–280 (Source: University of Kentucky Extension)
• Egg color: Brown
• Cold Hardy: Yes
• Temperament: Friendly, alert
• Plymouth Rock breed profile | Plymouth Rock Chicken Eggs

Egg Production in Winter

My Plymouth Rocks consistently laid 3–4 eggs per week, even when temperatures dipped below freezing.

Cold-Hardy Traits

• Thick, fluffy feathers.
• Small combs resist frostbite.

My Experience

Plymouth Rocks are great for mixed flocks because they’re assertive enough to hold their own, but not aggressive. They also adapt well to confinement, so if your chickens spend more time indoors during winter, this breed won’t mind.

3. Wyandotte

Wyandottes are the workhorses of the winter coop. With their beautiful laced feathers and unique rose combs, they’re as attractive as they are practical. Known for their robust health and calm demeanor, Wyandottes are a favorite among northern chicken keepers who need birds that can handle snow, wind, and long winters.

Wyandotte at a Glance:

• Eggs/year: 200–240 (Source: University of Kentucky Extension)
• Egg color: Brown
• Cold Hardy: Yes
• Temperament: Docile, robust
• When Do Wyandottes Start Laying Eggs? | How long do Wyandotte chickens lay eggs?

Egg Production in Winter

Wyandottes in my flock averaged 3 eggs per week in January, even during a cold snap.

Cold-Hardy Traits

• Rose combs are practically immune to frostbite.
• Stocky build and thick plumage.

My Experience

Wyandottes are always among the last to stop laying, even when the days are short and cold. They’re also less likely to peck at each other when cooped up, making them a peaceful choice for small backyard flocks.

4. Lohmann Brown

Lohmann Browns are the “egg machines” of the backyard world. Developed in Germany for commercial egg production, they’re now a favorite for small farms and families who want a reliable supply of brown eggs—even when the weather turns nasty. Lohmann Browns are active, social, and surprisingly tough in the cold.

Lohmann Brown at a Glance:

• Eggs/year: 280–320 ([Source: Lohmann Tierzucht)
• Egg color: Brown
• Cold Hardy: Yes
• Temperament: Active, social
• Lohmann Brown breed details

Egg Production in Winter

Lohmann Browns are prolific layers. Mine often produced 5+ eggs per week, even in the coldest months.

Cold-Hardy Traits

• Good feather coverage.
• Strong immune system.

My Experience

Even when my other hens slowed down, Lohmann Browns kept the eggs coming. They’re also very feed-efficient, so you’ll get more eggs per bag of feed compared to many heritage breeds.

5. Rhode Island Red

If you’re looking for a breed that can handle just about anything, the Rhode Island Red is a legend. These birds are known for their resilience, assertive personalities, and ability to keep laying when other breeds slow down. They’re a great choice for beginners and anyone who wants a low-fuss, high-output hen.

Rhode Island Red at a Glance:

• Eggs/year: 250–300 (Source: University of Kentucky Extension)
• Egg color: Brown
• Cold Hardy: Yes
• Temperament: Hardy, assertive
• What is the true purpose of the Red Rhode Island chicken? | When do Rhode Island Reds start laying eggs?

Egg Production in Winter

My Rhode Island Reds averaged 4 eggs per week, even when snow covered the ground.

Cold-Hardy Traits

• Dense feathers.
• Strong constitution.

My Experience

I’ve seen Rhode Island Reds scratching for food in the snow when other breeds are huddled inside. If you want a breed that will keep laying through almost anything, this is a classic choice.

6. Sussex

Sussex chickens are gentle, curious, and full of personality. With their soft, thick feathers and friendly disposition, they’re a joy to have around the yard. Sussex are also excellent foragers, making them a great choice for flocks that get some free-range time—even in winter.

Sussex at a Glance:

• Eggs/year: 220–260 (Source: University of Kentucky Extension)
• Egg color: Light brown
• Cold Hardy: Yes
• Temperament: Curious, gentle

Egg Production in Winter

Sussex hens in my flock laid about 3 eggs per week in January.

Cold-Hardy Traits

• Thick, soft feathers.
• Calm nature.

My Experience

Sussex chickens are excellent foragers, so if you let your flock out on sunny winter days, they’ll make the most of it. Their gentle nature also makes them a favorite for families with kids.

7. Orpington

Orpingtons are the “teddy bears” of the chicken world—big, fluffy, and incredibly sweet. Their calm, docile nature makes them perfect for families, and their thick plumage is ideal for cold climates. If you want a bird that’s as happy to sit on your lap as it is to lay eggs in the snow, the Orpington is for you.

Orpington at a Glance:

• Eggs/year: 200–280 (Source: University of Kentucky Extension)
• Egg color: Light brown
• Cold Hardy: Yes
• Temperament: Calm, cuddly
• When do Buff Orpingtons start laying eggs?

Egg Production in Winter

My Orpingtons laid 3–4 eggs per week, even during the coldest spells.

Cold-Hardy Traits

• Abundant feathering.
• Large body mass.

My Experience

Orpingtons are so docile and friendly that they’re often called “lap chickens.” Their thick feathers make them one of the best breeds for cold climates, but be sure to check for mites in all that fluff during winter.

How to Support Egg Laying in Cold Weather

Choosing the right breed is half the battle. Here’s how to keep those eggs coming when it’s cold:

• Provide supplemental light: Use a safe LED or poultry-specific bulb to give your hens 14–16 hours of light per day.
• Feed for winter: High-quality, protein-rich feed like Top Feeds Layer Mash or Purina Layena helps hens stay warm and productive.
• Keep water unfrozen: Use heated waterers or change water often.
• Draft-free coop: Insulate, but don’t overdo it—ventilation is still important.
• Let hens rest: Don’t force laying with too much light. Sometimes, a winter break is healthiest.

“If you want to maintain egg production through the winter, providing supplemental light to reach 14-16 hours per day is effective, but it’s also okay to let hens rest.”
— Dr. Brigid McCrea, Auburn University, via Hobby Farms

“A well-balanced diet with adequate protein and energy is essential for hens to continue laying during the winter months.”
— Dr. Jacquie Jacob, University of Kentucky Extension

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Egg Laying

Personal Experience: My Best Winter Layers

When I first started keeping chickens, I made the rookie mistake of choosing breeds just for looks. My Leghorns and Polish hens stopped laying as soon as the first frost hit. It was the Australorps and Wyandottes that kept my egg basket full all winter. Now, I always recommend starting with at least one of these breeds if you want reliable winter eggs.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Winter Layer for Your Flock

Winter doesn’t have to mean empty egg cartons. With the right breeds—like Australorp, Plymouth Rock, and Lohmann Brown—and a little extra care, you can enjoy fresh eggs even when the snow is falling. Remember, every flock and climate is different, so don’t be afraid to experiment and see which breeds thrive in your backyard.

With the right chickens and a bit of know-how, you’ll be cracking fresh eggs for breakfast all year round.

Related Reading & Internal Links

• How Many Eggs Will Your Chickens Lay?
• Chicken Feed for Egg Production
• Plymouth Rock Chicken Characteristics
• What Are the Characteristics of Lohmann Brown?
• At What Age Do Australorps Start Laying Eggs?
• When Do Wyandottes Start Laying Eggs?
• How long do Wyandotte chickens lay eggs?
• What is the true purpose of the Red Rhode Island chicken?
• When do Rhode Island Reds start laying eggs?
• When do Buff Orpingtons start laying eggs?