The Ölandsk Dwarf is an amazing little bird! Originating from the islands of Öland in Sweden, their genetics are debated but the thing we do know, for sure – they are a landrace breed that has naturally reproduced only bringing forward the best, most adaptable, most utilitarian traits. Greenfire Farms graced the US by importing this breed twice over to keep genetics clean.
Ölandsk Dwarves are one of the smallest, regularly-laying breeds available which makes them ideally suited to any homestead worldwide! They average about 200 eggs a year and only take a short break between fall and winter before laying once more – without supplemental light! They are categorically “small” eggs but the Ölandsk Dwarf lays so well that you can easily use two eggs and it’s just right.
These birds are equally at-home confined to a coop and enclosed run as they are free-ranging the wide-open. They have a great ability to fly and they are all quite wary of predators – both roo and hen alike! Ölandsk Dwarves are amazing foragers, too. They do need supplemental feed, even if free-ranging, but can do well nearly sustaining off of forage. They are excellent de-buggers and their small size means less damage to the garden! Keep in mind, though, they are tenacious when they sense a snack!
Ölandsk Dwarf Broodiness
Online reports vary regarding how well the Ölandsk Dwarf mothers but my personal experience, with my flock and genetics is they are phenomenal mothers! We have a partnered pair of hens we call Thelma and Louise. They are currently raising their second clutch this year. We do not do any incubation (unless there is a medical need) and between Thelma, Louise, and Cauliflower they’ve hatched out 6 chicks this year (2024) alone. Cauliflower ran the daycare during the first round and was ultimately caring for 9 babies herself. I seem to be the in the minority experiencing the Ölandsk Dwarf being not only good at hatching, but also in mothering – but I suppose this is more reason to choose Heart & Soil genetics!