About Bantam Chickens

Keeping bantam chickens has become popular with those who desire to have a small, friendly, low-maintenance backyard pet. These tiny layers grace farms worldwide and are also well-loved as show chickens.

History

Some true bantam breeds date back 4,000 years. The popular Silkie bantam originated in Tibet in the 13th century and soon became common throughout China.

Popular True Bantam Breeds

The Silkie has soft, hair-like feathering. The Seabright comes in silver or gold. The Belgian D'Anver and Belgian D'Uccles, come in several varieties and colors. The Serama is the smallest bantam and is a treasured house pet in Malaysia.

An East Indies Original

The little Dutch bantam, originally found on Bantam Island in the Dutch East Indies, was first introduced to Holland in the 17th century by Dutch seamen. They are most popular in the Netherlands and in England.

Other Bantams

Some bantam chickens are bred-down versions of large breeds, and they are not considered true bantams. Most large chicken breeds now come in a bantam version.

Growth

Bantams are considered sexually mature at about five to six months of age. They can range in weight from less than 20 ounces to just over 2 pounds, depending on the breed.

References

• Henderson's Chicken Breed Chart
• Poultry Breeds-Dutch Bantam Chicken
• Bantam Chickens

Resources

• American Bantam Association
• Bantam Chicken information