Rhode Island Red chickens are well known for their excellent production of brown eggs. The Rhode Island Red is a great free-range chicken and will do well in confinement as well. Hens of this variety can be expected to produce 280+ brown shell eggs per year. This variety usually comes into production at around 20 weeks of age. Baby chicks are a red/brown color with some white on their chest and wing tips. Adults will be red in color, with some black tail feathers. The Rhode Island Red is a good dual-purpose bird and can be used for meat as well as eggs.