Bantam Cochin: The perfect bantam chicken for the garden
The Bantam Cochin, often called the “rolling shuttlecock,” is a popular bantam breed known for its round appearance, calm disposition, and ornamental beauty. Here’s a closer look at this adorable chicken breed.
Origin and History
Dwarf Cochins are considered the “original dwarfs,” meaning they were always a small breed and did not descend from a larger counterpart. Although their name is similar to the large Cochin breed, they are genetically distinct. Their origins can be traced back to Imperial China, where they were bred in the emperor’s gardens for their beauty. The breed was first introduced to Europe in the 19th century and arrived in England as spoils of war in 1860. They quickly gained popularity due to their attractive plumage and friendly nature. By 1886, the Dwarf Cochin had reached Germany and became a prized breed among poultry lovers. **Physical Characteristics**
The Dwarf Cochin’s trademark is its dense, fluffy plumage that covers not only the body but also the legs and feet. This gives it its characteristic round and compact appearance. Other important characteristics include:
– A small, slightly rounded head with a single crest.
– Short, strong legs that are feathered down to the toes. 
– A broad body that slopes slightly backwards.
– Available in over 24 color variations, five of which feature ruffled feathers.
Their unique plumage requires proper care as it can trap moisture and dirt if kept in wet or muddy environments.
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**Behaviour and Temperament**
Bantam Cochins are highly prized for their gentle and friendly nature, making them ideal for families with children. They are curious but calm and can often be hand tamed without much effort. They thrive in quiet, secure environments and are not prone to flying, so a low fence is sufficient to contain them.
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**Care and Housing**
These bantams are hardy and adapt well to colder climates thanks to their thick plumage. However, they require:
– a dry, well-ventilated and frost-proof coop.
– dry and clean outdoor areas to avoid problems with the feathering of their feet.
– bedding materials such as sand or wood shavings to maintain cleanliness.
Due to their moderate activity level, they are well suited for small gardens.
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**Breeding and Egg Production**
Bantam Cochin chickens are excellent brooders and mothers. They reliably hatch their chicks and often care for them for up to 12 weeks. They lay around 80-100 small brown eggs annually from around 8-10 months of age. Although they are not prolific layers, their care skills make them a popular choice for breeding programs.
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**Diet and Care**
A balanced diet of grains, vegetables and occasional protein treats such as worms will keep Bantam Cochins healthy. Due to their dense plumage, regular checks for parasites are necessary.
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**Why choose Bantam Cochins?**
Bantam Cochins are perfect as ornamental pets, for small-scale poultry keepers, or for families looking for an appealing and easy-to-handle breed. Their stunning looks and calm temperament make them a great companion for any breed.