Heavy feathering in mud is challenging

Orpingtons are beautiful, but in a wet British winter their fluffy leg and body feathering becomes a muddy maintenance challenge. After heavy rain their plumage is sodden and they look sorry for themselves. I've improved their run with hardstanding and raised sheltered areas which has helped significantly. They're worth the management, but prospective owners in wet climates should plan for mud management before getting Orpingtons.