The Minorca, Catalan: Gallina de Menorca, Spanish: Menorquina, is a breed of domestic chicken originating in the Mediterranean island of Menorca, in the Balearic Islands to the south-east of Spain. It is a well-known exhibition bird in many countries of the world, but in the island of Menorca is an endangered breed and considered to be at risk of extinction.
Originally from the Mediterranean island of Menorca, this breed is well-adapted to warm climates. It thrives in open spaces and benefits from a free-ranging environment where it can forage. In exhibition settings, it is kept under more controlled conditions.
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
The Minorca is known for its large size and distinctive appearance, making it popular for exhibition. However, on the island of Menorca, its native home, it is endangered and considered at risk of extinction. This breed is also valued for its large white eggs.
Black Minorca cock and white Minorca hen, illustration from the Geflügel-Album of Jean Bungartz, 1885