A Landrace Built to Survive, Not to Be Managed
Icelandic chickens, known as Íslenska Hænan or Landnámshænan, have been surviving in Iceland for over 1,000 years. These birds were not developed in controlled breeding programs. They were shaped by environment, necessity, and people who depended on them.
The result is a highly adaptable, independent bird that can think for itself, forage efficiently, and handle conditions that would slow other breeds down.
If you want a chicken that does not rely on constant input from you, Icelandics are one of the best options out there.
Breed Characteristics
Country of Origin: Iceland. A true landrace with over 1,000 years of adaptation.
Size: Hens average 3 to 4 pounds. Roosters average 4 to 5 pounds. Medium-sized, active, and well-balanced.
Egg Production: Around 130 to 160 medium eggs per year. Egg color ranges from white to cream.
Egg Size: Medium.
Personality: Active, independent, and highly aware of their environment.
Broodiness: Moderate to high. Many hens will go broody and are capable, reliable mothers.
Climate Adaptability: Extremely cold-hardy with good adaptability when provided proper shade and management in warmer conditions.
Why Keep Icelandics?
Because not everyone wants a chicken that needs constant supervision.
Icelandics are natural foragers, strong flyers, and quick thinkers. They do best when given space to move, explore, and behave like actual chickens instead of confined, low-activity birds.
They are not uniform in appearance, and that is intentional. Their genetic diversity is part of what makes them resilient, adaptable, and worth preserving.
This is a breed for people who want function first, personality second, and predictability somewhere much lower on the list.
Who They’re For
Icelandic chicks are a strong fit for:
Chicken keepers who want a true, preservation-focused landrace
Homesteaders who rely on foraging and low-input flock management
Backyard flocks that benefit from adaptability and independence
People who are comfortable with birds that do not always follow the rules
Chick Ordering & Shipping Details
Shipped at One Day Old
Chicks are shipped at one day old. At this stage, they are still absorbing nutrients from their yolk sac, which allows them to safely travel during the first 48 to 72 hours after hatch.
Straight Run Only
Chicks are sold unsexed, so you will find out who is who as they grow.
Minimum Order of 6 Chicks
Start with at least six chicks, or mix and match breeds to build your flock.
Express Shipping (Read This Part)
Chicks ship on Monday or Tuesday via USPS Priority Express, the fastest option available, but delivery is not guaranteed overnight.
Most shipments take 2 to 3 days in transit depending on USPS routing and handling.
We pack every shipment with:
• 72-hour heat packs when needed for temperature safety
• Gro-gel for hydration and nutritional support during travel
Chicks are prepared to travel within this window, but delays can happen. Please only order if you are comfortable with this shipping timeline.
Flat rate shipping: $85
We do not ship to Hawaii at this time.
Local Pick-Up Option
Local pick-up is available at an off-site location on the advertised ship date.
Our Commitment to Quality
Extra Chicks When Available
When possible, we include bonus chicks. Sometimes that may mean an extra from another breed. If you have preferences, leave us a note at checkout.
NPIP-Certified & A/I Clean
Our flock meets National Poultry Improvement Plan standards under participant number 31-1508 (Tina Hines).
Preservation-Focused Breeding
We prioritize hardiness, function, and long-term sustainability, not just appearance.
Virtual Farm Connection
We do not offer public farm visits, but we are happy to share photos, updates, and support so you feel connected to your flock’s origin.
Before You Order
We begin preparing your hatch as soon as your order is confirmed. That includes reserving incubator space and scheduling your hatch.
Cancellations made more than 3 weeks before your scheduled ship date will receive a full refund.
Cancellations within 3 weeks of your scheduled ship date are subject to a
$10 non-refundable prep fee, as resources have already been committed to your hatch.
We are not a factory farm. Every chick matters. Thank you for supporting responsible, small-scale breeding.
Note: This policy applies to chick orders only.
Clancy Crowed It: If you want control, get a coop camera. If you want capable birds, get Icelandics.