ANDALUSIAN - This is one of the oldest of Mediterranean breeds, and owes its name to the Province of Andalusia in Spain. Two sizes exist - Large Fowl and Bantam, both classified as Light breeds. The blue colouration does not breed true, but produces 25% blue, 25% splashed (white with grey splashes) and 50% black. Only the Blue laced variety is exhibited, but if black and splashed are mated together, more blues are produced, although the lacing can become a little indistinct. As egg producers, Andalusians compare well with other breeds, the hens laying a good number of white eggs. Hardy, robust, energetic foragers, yet very attractive fowl, being active and elegant. The young birds grow and mature quickly.

NORFOLK GREY - The Norfolk Grey was created by Mr Myhill of Norwich, under the original name of 'Black Marias', and was first shown at the 1920 Dairy Show. Both Large Fowl and Bantam versions are standardised in one plumage colour, and are classified as a Heavy breed. Active and foraging, the Norfolk Grey produces tinted eggs and is capable of attaining a good carcase size for meat production if allowed to mature slowly. The breed appears fairly regularly at shows, particularly in its county of origin and is capable of winning prizes when on top form.

HOUDAN - Introduced into England in 1850 from France, it takes its name from the town of Houdan and has been developed for table qualities. It is a heavy breed and is one of the few breeds carrying a fifth toe. Other distinctive features are the crest, leaf-shaped comb, muffling and beard and there is but one colour standardized. This is mottled which is black with pure white mottles, evenly distributed.

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