Indigenous to the Netherlands, the Barnevelder Chicken is a very popular breed of poultry. The species made its first appearance just before the start of World War I. Due to the high quality and distinctive color of the eggs, Barnevelders were soon in demand in other parts of the world. Exports to other countries began in 1921.

A popular choice of color is the double laced variety. However, Barnevelders are also available in partridge, black, and silver. In its predominantly brown plumage, the hen has black double lacing. Often, this is called a double-laced partridge. Roosters have luxurious plumage with sprays of shimmering green, violet, and bronze. Some have a white and blue lacing.

The plumage of both sexes can be described as 'tight with a rich texture'. They have red ear lobes, yellow skin, and a single comb. The stance is upright and the breast is broad. Due to their short wings, they are not very at flying.

Their fame was initially due to the unusual color of the eggs but, today, they are used for show purposes more than for their laying abilities. The color of the eggs is of little importance now because the birds' appearance is the center of focus. Eggs are lighter and Barnevelder layers don't produce the vast quantities as they did in their early history.

However, they are very useful winter layers and have a quiet, friendly disposition. They are not only bred to be show birds, but also as a handy utility breed. Medium-to-heavy in weight, they make an ideal double-purpose bird that can produce an adequate supply of eggs and yield an acceptable carcass. Barnevelders are excellent foragers and very hardy. Because they are inherently lazy, if allowed to live inactive lives, they are prone to becoming fat.

Both the female and the male enjoy human company and are docile. Therefore, they make good pets, for children especially. They will happily become a member of the family and won't mind being handled, stroked, or picked up. A young one will probably need some socialization before it becomes a true pet. Barnevelders, unlike other breeds, have even been known to nurture very young children and babies.

They are easy-going and love to be wherever the family is. Like dogs, they follow their owners around as much as they can, and some say that they even have a tendency to 'guard'. The hens are excellent mothers and brood their eggs. Once hatched, the chicks are given attentive care by her. The rooster is also a good parent and will assist in raising the offspring.

Chicks grow their feathers slower than most other breeds. A standard hen usually reaches a weight of six pounds, while a rooster is eight pounds. All in all, a Barnevelder Chicken is a versatile utility bird that's great for eggs, for a pet, and to eat. An average hen can lay around 180 eggs a year and some jumbo-sized eggs weigh up to three ounces. This breed's droppings make an excellent garden fertilizer.