Raising Large Fowl Welsummer, RC Rhode Island Red,
(02-15-2008)
Bantam Chicken Breeders
Bantams are miniature chickens usually about one fourth to one-fifth the weight of their large counterparts, when such exist. Although they appear to be exact miniatures, actually they are disproportionately larger in head, wings, tail and feather size than their weight would indicate. Little is known of their origin but it is thought they may have originated in the Orient although historians do not agree.
The popularity of Bantams has increased tremendously until today many poultry shows have as many or more Bantams than large birds. Bantams are known as the flower garden of the poultry world with their many different types and unlimited assortment of colors and color patterns. Many are miniatures of large poultry while others are of a type and color not seen in large chickens.
Their friendliness, as well as hardiness, make them equally attractive to young and old. Many people who cannot keep large poultry raise Bantams, they find the ratio of feed consumed and the amount of meat and eggs produced to be both economical and profitable.
Eggs from bantams are relatively larger in proportion to their body size than are the eggs from large chickens.
Putting bantams on the scale to get an exact weight is encouraged. These weights should be compared with the standard weights before birds are shown, sold or used in the breeding pen.
Bantams were formerly known strictly as a fanciers delight, for pleasure and pets, but they are now proving their commercial value and are adaptable as a backyard flock.
SOURCE: American Standard of Perfection copyright 2001 All Rights Reserved.
