Poultry Breeds - Vorwerk
The Vorwerk has unique colouring and useful, dual-purpose potential. A german poultry breeder called Oskar Vorwerk developed the Vorwerk in Hamburg in 1900 he set out to create a genuinely practical, medium-sized utility fowl. Not only did he want the bird to be a good egg and meat producer, but he also aimed to produce a chicken that was an economical eater, mild-mannered and straightforward to keep. He succeeded on all counts.
Today the Vorwerk is confined to a few enthusiast keepers who appreciate its many qualities and preserve its heritage. Numbers are so small that there is no specific breed club to support its needs, although thankfully, in Britain the Rare Poultry Society does include the Vorwerk under its protective “rare breed” umbrella.
The Vorwerk has a typical utility shape; a broad deep body, a well rounded and full breast and a tail held at a lowish angle. The medium size head has an average single comb that has up to six serrations. The red face is covered with tiny feathers.
The Vorwerk’s upright neck is covered with full hackle feathers, and the bird stands on slate grey, featherless legs with four-toed feet. The plumage colour scheme is similar to a Lakenvelder, with the white ground colour replaced by an attractive dark buff. The Vorwerk neck and tail should both be pure black, and the feathers, generally, are fairly close-fitting.
 |
 |
| Vorwerk Cockerel | Vorwerk Hen |