Wyandotte Bantam

The Wyandotte Bantam is defined by its compact, well-rounded body and graceful curves. Its most striking physical feature is the rose comb, which is low and follows the line of the skull, ending in a small spike or 'leader' that curves slightly downward. The breed has a deep, full breast and a short, broad back that creates the signature U-shape silhouette. Their legs are clean (featherless), medium in length, and should be a vibrant yellow color.

• Body Shape: Deep, broad, and remarkably round with a short back.
• Plumage: Feathers are broad and fit relatively close to the body, though the breed appears fluffy due to a well-developed cushion.
• Eyes: Bright bay or reddish-bay.
• Earlobes: Smooth, almond-shaped, and always bright red.

Despite their small size, Wyandotte Bantams are productive layers. They typically produce between 160 to 200 eggs per year. The eggs are generally cream to light brown (tinted) in color and weigh approximately 1.2 oz (35g).

Hens are known to have strong maternal instincts and frequently go broody. They make excellent, protective mothers, which is a major draw for hobbyists interested in natural incubation and raising chicks in a backyard setting.

The differences between the sexes are distinct in both physical stature and plumage development. The rooster typically weighs around 39-42 oz (1100-1200g), while the hen is smaller at 32-35 oz (900-1000g).

• Plumage: The rooster possesses long, flowing hackle and saddle feathers, which are particularly prominent in the laced varieties. His tail is full and carried upright, featuring well-curved sickles.
• The Hen: The hen has a much rounder appearance, with a noticeable cushion over the base of her tail. Her comb is smaller and finer than the rooster's.
• Behavior: Roosters are generally calm and confident, though they can be protective of their flock. Hens are exceptionally docile and easy to handle, often becoming very tame with regular human interaction.

Wyandotte Bantams are considered exceptionally cold-hardy. This is largely due to their rose comb, which is far less susceptible to frostbite than the single combs found on breeds like the Leghorn or Minorca. Their dense, fluffy plumage also provides excellent insulation during harsh winters.

While they tolerate heat reasonably well if provided with shade and fresh water, their compact, heavy-feathered bodies mean they can suffer in extreme humidity. Owners in very hot climates should ensure proper coop ventilation and cooling measures during peak summer months.

The Wyandotte Bantam is famous for having one of the widest ranges of recognized color patterns. The most iconic is the Silver Laced, which features white feathers with sharp black borders. Other popular varieties include:

• Golden Laced: Rich mahogany/gold feathers with black lacing.
• Columbian: A white body with black markings on the neck, wings, and tail (similar to the Light Brahma).
• Partridge: Complex triple-penciling on the hens, with a colorful red and black pattern on the roosters.
• White: A pure, snow-white variety that is highly prized in exhibition for its clean lines.
• Black: Solid black with a distinct beetle-green sheen.

The large fowl Wyandotte originated in the United States (specifically New York and Michigan) in the 1870s. The breed was named after the Wyandot (Huron) people, though there is no direct link between the tribe and the development of the bird.

The bantam version was developed later, appearing in England and Germany in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The black variety was first exhibited around 1909, followed by the white in 1912. Dutch breeders played a significant role in perfecting the miniature type, focusing on the bird's unique curvature and symmetry. By the 1930s, the breed had exploded in popularity across Europe and North America.