Aarschoter Huhn

A rare Belgian dual-purpose breed originating from the town of Aarschot in Flemish Brabant. The Aarschoter Huhn is a traditional farmyard chicken developed for both meat and egg production on small Belgian farms during the 19th century. It is a well-muscled, medium-large bird with a calm disposition and good foraging ability, making it ideal for free-range smallholdings. The breed was nearly lost during the mid-20th century as commercial hybrids replaced traditional farm breeds, but dedicated Belgian conservation breeders have worked to preserve it. Recognised by the EE Europastandard and maintained by BDRG and Belgian poultry associations, the Aarschoter Huhn represents an important part of Belgian agricultural heritage. Its eggs are tinted to light brown, and the breed matures at a moderate rate, producing excellent table birds.