Jubilee Orpington Vs. Speckled Sussex Chickens (What’s The Difference)

At first glance, Jubilee Orpingtons and Speckled Sussex chickens could easily be mistaken for one another.

But, I promise you, even though Jubilee Orpingtons and Specklex Sussex and both heritage breeds and share very similar plumage colors and patterns, they are entirely different breeds.

Whether you’re thinking about a new addition to your flock, or want to simply compare the two, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s what makes Jubilee Orpington and Speckled Suxxes chickens each so unique and all the notable differences between them.

Jubilee Orpington Vs. Speckled Sussex (All Differences)

Let’s make one thing clear. When we’re talking about Jubilee Orpington and Specklex Sussex chickens, the actual breeds are Orpington and Sussex chickens.

The “Jubilee” and “Speckled” are simply the varieties of these chickens.

But, although these two chickens share the same unique color pattern, they are two different breeds with very different origins, physical traits, temperaments, and egg-laying capabilities.

Take a look at all their different characteristics and judge for yourself! 

Origin

The Orpington breed resulted from a crossbreeding carried out by William Cook, an excellent English chicken breeder. William started his own chicken breeding business in 1866 in a little place called Orpington, hence the name.

Likewise, the chicken breed Sussex is named after a south-eastern English county called Sussex. 

Speckled Sussex was one of the first varieties of the famous Sussex breed, which the American Poultry Association recognized in 1929.

There are rumors that breeding between these two beautiful chickens, the Orpington and the Sussex, contributed to the production of Jubilee Orpingtons in the first place. But this hasn’t been proven.

Physical Features

Jubilee Orpington and Speckled Sussex set themselves apart from other breeds of chickens by their unique plumage color and pattern.

Both of these breeds share rich mahogany brown base colors, shimmeringly sprinkled with white speckles contrasted by dark spots.

Both chooks have pale skin, legs, and beaks, with their combs and wattles developing a classic red hue.

However, Jubilee Orpingtons have a notably puffier tail, giving them quite an elegant look. As a whole Jubilee Orpingtons appear quite circular.

On the other hand, Speckled Sussex chickens are typically broader with a flatter back.

Temperament

Both the Jubilee Orpington and Speckled Sussex heritage breeds have had a long history, even being considered royal breeds in England.

But, royalty and fame haven’t spoiled them! Both breeds are considered low-maintenance, docile, and warm-hearted.

They’re about as friendly as chickens can get and are great around young families.

If anything, Sussex chickens are a bit more “confident”  (especially Sussex roosters!) and don’t shy away from humans, whereas Orpingtons are timider and prefer to play it safe.

Both breeds love their food, as most chickens do!

Therefore, they tend to be heavy-set and find it difficult to take to flight. They don’t mind though, they are happy grazing in any space that will have them.

Egg Production

While both Jubilee Orpington and Speckled Sussex are considered generous egg layers, they don’t stand up to the production of hybrid breeds like ISA Brown or Golden Comets for example.

Still, on average, a Speckled Sussex hen will lay between 180 and 240 large-sized eggs a year. 

Jubilee Orpington hens produce somewhere in the range of 160-200 large eggs annually.

However, it should be noted that Jubilee Orpingtons start to lay from as young as 5-6 months old, whereas it can take Speckled Sussex 7-8 months to start laying!

Both chicken breeds will lay eggs for 2-4 years on average, depending on a variety of factors including diet and environment.

What About The Roosters?

Jubilee Orpington and Speckled Sussex roosters have the same physical and behavioral differences as the hens, just to a larger and more noticeable extent.

Jubilee Orpingtons roosters appear much larger than Speckled Sussex roosters, and their tail feathers are much grander.

Although both roosters are good flock protectors, Speckled Sussex roosters tend to be a bit more aggressive than the docile and gentle Jubilee Orpingtons.

Both breeds of rooster begin to crow from as young as 4 – 5 months, though they will often practice from as early as 3 months.

Quick Summary

So it’s obvious Jubilee Orpington and Speckled Sussex chickens are not the same, despite the fact they share the same plumage colors and patterns.

The main differences between Jubilee Orpington chickens and Speckled Sussex chickens include:

  • They originated in different parts of England.
  • Jubilee Orpingtons are more circular with larger tails.
  • Speckled Sussex chickens tend to be more confident around humans.
  • Jubilee Orpingtons generally lay fewer eggs than Speckled Sussex, but begin laying eggs sooner.

Still, they share many similarities in their personalities and plumage.

Which one would you prefer to have roaming around your backyard?

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