The Rhode Island Red is an American breed of chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) - it is the state bird of Rhode Island. Dr. N.B. Aldrich first named the birds Rhode Island Red. Before this they were known as Red Malays as one of the foundation sires of the breed was a black-breasted red Malay cock which was imported from England. Rhode Island Reds are used in the creation of many modern hybrid breeds, mainly due to the prolific egg laying abilities of the Rhode Island Red.
