Cochin Bantam

The Cochin Bantam is characterized by its very broad and compact build, often described as fitting within a circle from all angles. It has a low-set chest and a very well-rounded tail that is carried at the same height as the head. The feathering is exceptionally rich, soft, and loose, creating a 'feather ball' impression.

• Weight: Roosters typically weigh between 2.2-2.4 lbs (1000-1100g), while hens weigh 1.76-1.98 lbs (800-900g).
• Comb: They have a small, single comb that is regular in shape, with preferably five teeth, and stands upright. The comb heel follows the neck line. It is red.
• Head: The head is relatively small but broad, with a smooth, red face.
• Beard/Muffs: N/A (No beard or muffs specified in the text).
• Legs: Cochin Bantams have short, sturdy, heavily feathered legs and feet, completely obscuring the shanks. The toes are well-feathered, with yellow skin on the soles of the feet.
• Eyes: Large, lively, orange-red to reddish-brown.
• Feathering: The feathering is very full and soft, giving a round, fluffy appearance, but it should not be too excessive.

Cochin Bantams are not primarily kept for their egg production, but rather for their ornamental value and gentle nature. However, they do lay a respectable number of eggs for a bantam breed.

• Egg Production: Hens lay approximately 100-120 eggs per year.
• Egg Size & Color: They lay small to medium-sized brown or tinted eggs, with an average weight of about 1.2 oz (35g).
• Broodiness: Cochin hens are famously very broody and make excellent mothers. They are persistent sitters and attentive to their chicks, making them ideal for hatching and raising clutches naturally.

Beyond typical secondary sexual characteristics, Cochin Bantams exhibit few distinct differences between roosters and hens in their overall body structure. Both sexes share the characteristic broad, deep, and heavily feathered build.

The rooster will typically have a well-developed, rather short neck hackle and saddle feathering that contributes to its round shape. Its tail is short, broad, and deeply feathered, with sickles and tail coverts fully covering the main tail feathers.

The hen often appears even more massive due to her generally lower, more 'tucked-in' posture, giving her a very full and rounded appearance from all sides. Her abdomen is particularly deep and well-developed.

Cochin Bantams are generally considered hardy birds, well-suited to various climates due to their abundant and soft feathering, which provides good insulation. Their dense plumage makes them tolerant of cold weather.

However, their heavily feathered legs and feet require attention in wet or muddy conditions to prevent problems such as mud build-up, frostbite, or bumblefoot. Dry, clean housing is essential. Their docile nature means they adapt well to confinement but appreciate some space for light activity.

Cochin Bantams are recognized in a wide array of attractive color varieties, reflecting their popularity and long breeding history. Some of the most common varieties include:

• Black: Solid, glossy black plumage.
• White: Pure white plumage.
• Blue: An even shade of blue, often with darker lacing.
• Buff: A rich, even golden-buff color.
• Partridge: A complex pattern with a reddish-brown ground color and black lacing on the hen, and a richer red on the rooster's hackle and saddle.

Other recognized varieties may include Silver Laced, Gold Laced, Red, Mottled, Cuckoo, and Lavender.