'Partridge' in chickens refers to a specific feather color pattern found in several breeds, characterized by rich brown, red, and black markings with distinctive penciling or barring. It is not a separate breed but a recognised colour variety within breeds such as Plymouth Rocks and Cochins.
The term 'partridge' describes a colour pattern rather than a different type of chicken, so it is not a direct comparison. Partridge varieties differ by breed in temperament, egg production, and size. For example, Partridge Plymouth Rocks are good dual-purpose birds, whereas Partridge Cochins are calm with moderate egg laying.
Partridge chickens, including Partridge Cochins and Partridge Plymouth Rocks, typically lay brown eggs. The size of eggs can vary by breed but generally, they are medium to large and brown in colour.
Partridge Rock chickens are considered good dual-purpose birds, valued both for meat and reliable brown egg production. They lay a decent number of eggs annually, though not as many as specialised layer breeds.