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Characteristics of the Robusta Lionata breed
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An opinion on the Robusta Lionata breed: what are its characteristics?
This breed was selected in 1965 at the Experimental Station for Poultry Farming in Rovigo by Prof. Raffaello Quilici. The Orpington Fulva and White America breeds contributed to its formation.
At that time, the Experimental Station was run by the Ministry and the selection of Robusta Lionata was intended to obtain a male line useful for the production of 'Pollo Ruspante Italiano'.
In practice, this breed is the male line created to be crossed with Ermellinata di Rovigo females. This first-generation cross produces self-seeded subjects: ermellinated males (young fast-growing chickens) and Red Females (medium-heavy brown-shelled hens producing eggs).
- At 10 weeks the average weight of cockerels is 1.350 kg while females reach a weight of 1.050 kg.
- At one year of age, pullets weigh on average 2.4-2.8 kg, while roosters reach a weight of 3.8-3.4 kg.
- At 18 months, the weights are 3.6-4.0 kg for cocks and 2.6-3.0 kg for hens, respectively.
The average annual production of coloured-shelled eggs by females is 180-220.
If you're passionate about learning all about the different breeds, don't miss the last #CHIEDILOALLESPERTO in which we delved into the characteristics of another breed, the Amrock hen!
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