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The Irresistible Booted Bantam Chicken
This breed is a true bantam, which means that it is not a miniature version of a larger breed, as many bantams are. Some say that these chickens were in the Netherlands as early as the 1500s, though others credit a later breeder in Belgium. It is a tiny bird, weighing less than two pounds for roosters and just over a pound and a half for hens. The American standard is smaller than these limits, which are rules for British breeders. No matter where it came from, this tiny fowl is rare but valued as a pet and an exhibition bird all over Europe and in many other countries. The British poultry standards limit the weight of a mature cock to under two pounds, while the American standards call for even smaller birds. Poultry standards are both interesting and necessary. While breeders have developed over twenty colors that will 'breed true', the official standards only admit eleven in Britain and seventeen in the United States. The standards are designed to keep show birds true not only in color and feathering but also to the physical characteristics that have been shown to be best for healthy and productive poultry flocks. For instance, there is a broad backed and high breasted shape that makes for a good layer, and that is one thing that judges look for. They have one special characteristic that sets them apart from almost all other breeds of chicken. They have what is called 'vulture hocks', which means that their legs sweep sharply back to the lower joint. It is hard to tell this from pictures, because their legs and feet are heavily feathered, the 'boots' that give them their name. The many different colors are all dramatic, with the Millefleur being the most popular. Even in this category, there are variations, however. The patterns and colors truly have to be seen to be believed, so check the poultry catalogs, online sites about fancy chickens, and club websites. The cocks have big, red, upright combs with five sharp points and red ears and wattles as well. Their wings sweep down and back, at the same angle as their dramatic hock feathers. They stand very upright and their fully-feathered tail stick up, too. The whole effect is perky. There are clubs around the world for fanciers of these chickens, where you can find breeders of show quality birds. National hatcheries will ship chicks in the spring, and many of them have rare birds such as these. Shows are held at every state and county fair and there will be special poultry shows as well. The birds are not much for meat, although what they have is well proportioned, but the hens lay readily and love to hatch out babies and care for them industriously. The Booted Bantam chicken must be seen to be believed. Not only are their feathers and colors gorgeous, but their upright shape and perky feathers make them very appealing. Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com For more information about the Booted Bantam Chicken and to find the right chicken coop to keep your chickens in visit ChickenCoopAdvice.com |
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