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Whether you’re about to start your first backyard chicken flock or looking to expand an existing one, you’ve got to decide which chicken breeds you want.
And there are tons of chicken breeds to choose from.
In fact, the American Poultry Association recognizes 113 breeds of chickens and bantams. And that excludes separate varieties based on colors or other physical traits.
To help you make your decision, I’ve put together profiles of all 113 APA-recognized chicken breeds.
Take your time reading through these, and let me know if you have any questions. The choice of breeds you include in your flock is important!
With that, let’s take a look at the most popular backyard chicken breeds available today (in alphabetical order):
(Looking to order baby chicks for delivery right to your doorstep? Check out My Pet Chicken’s wide range of chicken breeds.)
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Ameraucana
Ameraucana chickens are a breed known for their colorful eggs. They come in various colors, like blue, black, and white. They have fluffy feathers and a beard under their beak.
Ameraucanas are medium-sized chickens with a calm and friendly temperament. They lay around 200 eggs each year. Their eggs are small to medium-sized and can be blue, green, or even pink. These chickens are hardy and do well in most climates. They make good pets and are popular in backyard flocks.
Ameraucana Bantam
Ameraucana Bantam chickens are a small breed known for their colorful eggs. They have fluffy cheeks and muffs, giving them a distinctive appearance. These chickens are popular for backyard flocks due to their friendly nature and adaptability to various climates.
American Game Bantam
American Game Bantam chickens are a small breed originally developed for cockfighting. They have a compact, muscular build and distinctive upright posture. Despite their history, they are now primarily kept for ornamental purposes or as exhibition birds due to their striking appearance and unique characteristics.
Ancona Bantam
Ancona Bantam chickens are a smaller version of the standard Ancona chicken breed. They are known for their striking black and white spotted plumage, resembling a speckled pattern. These chickens are prized for their active and lively personalities, making them popular choices for backyard flocks and exhibition purposes.
Ancona
Ancona chickens are a breed known for their colorful plumage and lively personality. They originated in Italy and are named after the port city of Ancona. These chickens are prized for their egg-laying abilities and are often found in backyard flocks and small farms.
Andalusian Bantam
Andalusian Bantam chickens are a small-sized breed known for their elegant appearance and vibrant blue plumage. They originated in Spain and were developed from the standard-sized Andalusian breed. Despite their small size, they retain the distinctive traits of their larger counterparts, including their alert nature and active demeanor.
Andalusian
Andalusian chickens originate from Spain and are named after the Andalusia region. They are prized for their elegant appearance, characterized by slate-blue plumage with a metallic sheen. These chickens are known for their hardiness, adaptability to various climates, and excellent egg-laying abilities.
Araucana
Araucana chickens are a distinctive breed known for their blue-green eggs. They originated in South America, specifically in Chile. Araucanas have unique ear tufts and lack a tail, making them easily recognizable. They come in various colors, including black, white, and golden. This breed is popular among backyard poultry enthusiasts for their colorful eggs and unique appearance.
Araucana Bantam
Araucana Bantam chickens are a small-sized breed known for their distinctive blue eggs. They originated from South America, particularly Chile, where they were first bred by indigenous Araucana people. These chickens are characterized by their unique tufted ears and lack of tail feathers. Despite their small size, they are hardy birds and can adapt well to various climates.
Aseel
Aseel chickens are a breed known for their fighting abilities and robustness. They originated in South Asia and are valued for their strength and stamina. They have a long history, dating back centuries, and are recognized for their distinctive appearance and fierce demeanor.
Australorp Bantam
Australorp Bantam chickens are a smaller version of the standard Australorp breed. They are known for their friendly demeanor and striking appearance. Despite their smaller size, they maintain many of the same characteristics as their larger counterparts, including their excellent egg-laying abilities and adaptability to various climates.
Australorp
Australorp chickens are a breed known for their dual-purpose capabilities. They originated in Australia and are valued for their excellent egg-laying abilities as well as their quality meat production. They have a striking appearance, with glossy black feathers and a sturdy build.
Barnevelder
Barnevelder chickens are a dual-purpose breed originating from the Netherlands. They are known for their beautiful plumage, particularly the double-laced feather pattern. Barnevelders are prized for their medium to large brown eggs and are valued for both their egg-laying abilities and meat quality.
Belgian Bearded d’Anver Bantam
Belgian Bearded d’Anver Bantam chickens, also known simply as d’Anvers, are a small breed of bantam chickens originally from Belgium. They are known for their compact size, with hens typically weighing around 22 to 24 ounces and roosters slightly heavier. These chickens are prized for their friendly temperament, making them popular choices for backyard flocks and exhibition poultry.
- Learn more about Belgian Bearded d’Anver Bantam chickens
- Order Belgian Bearded d’Anver Bantam chicks
Belgian Bearded D’Uccle Bantam
Belgian Bearded D’Uccle Bantam chickens are a small and charming breed known for their unique appearance and friendly temperament. They have feathered feet and are often kept for ornamental purposes due to their striking plumage and adorable size. Despite their small stature, they are robust birds that can adapt well to various environments, making them suitable for backyard flocks.
- Learn more about Belgian Bearded D’Uccle Bantam chickens
- Order Belgian Bearded D’Uccle Bantam chicks
Booted (Non-Bearded) Bantam
Booted (non-bearded) Bantam chickens are a small-sized breed known for their elegant appearance. They are characterized by their feathered legs and feet, which give them a distinctive “booted” look. Despite their small size, they have a graceful demeanor and can be captivating additions to backyard flocks.
Brahma
Brahma chickens are a large and majestic breed known for their impressive size and gentle temperament. They have a distinctive appearance with feathered legs, a broad body, and a small pea comb. Originating from Asia, Brahma chickens are valued for their meat production, although they also lay large brown eggs.
Brahma Bantam
Brahma Bantam chickens are small-sized versions of the standard Brahma breed. They retain the distinctive appearance of their larger counterparts, including feathered legs and a broad body. Despite their diminutive size, they exhibit the same gentle temperament and are popular among poultry enthusiasts for their ornamental qualities.
Buckeye
Buckeye chickens are a breed developed in the United States. They’re known for their rich mahogany-colored feathers and pea combs. Buckeyes are dual-purpose birds, meaning they’re good for both eggs and meat. They have a friendly disposition and are easy to care for, making them popular among backyard chicken enthusiasts.
Buckeye Bantam
Buckeye Bantam chickens are a smaller version of the standard Buckeye breed. They retain the same rich mahogany-red color and pea comb. Despite their smaller size, they are still dual-purpose birds, suitable for both eggs and meat production. Buckeye Bantams are popular among poultry enthusiasts for their unique appearance and manageable size.
Campine
Campine chickens are a Belgian breed known for their striking appearance and active nature. They have distinctive barred plumage, with black and white stripes running across their feathers. Campines are dual-purpose birds, valued for both egg production and meat.
Campine Bantam
Campine Bantam chickens are miniature versions of the standard Campine breed. They retain the striking barred plumage and active temperament of their larger counterparts. These bantams are valued for their ornamental qualities and are popular among poultry enthusiasts for their charming appearance.
Catalana
Catalana chickens originate from Catalonia, a region in northeastern Spain. They are a dual-purpose breed, valued for both their egg-laying abilities and meat production. Catalanas are known for their hardiness and adaptability to various climates, making them popular choices for backyard flocks.
Catalana Bantam
Catalana Bantam chickens are smaller versions of the standard Catalana breed. They retain the distinctive black and white striped feather pattern, resembling their larger counterparts.
Despite their smaller size, Catalana Bantams maintain good egg-laying capabilities, producing small-sized eggs. Their compact stature and friendly disposition make them suitable for backyard flocks and small spaces.
Chantecler
Chantecler chickens are a Canadian breed developed in the early 20th century. They were bred to withstand harsh winter conditions and be productive year-round.
Known for their hardiness, Chanteclers have a small comb and feathering on their legs to resist frostbite. They come in various colors, and their calm disposition makes them suitable for backyard flocks.
Chantecler Bantam
Chantecler Bantam chickens are smaller versions of the standard Chantecler breed. Despite their diminutive size, they maintain the hardiness and practicality of their larger counterparts.
These bantams exhibit the same calm temperament and adaptability as their standard-sized counterparts, making them suitable for various living environments. With their smaller stature and friendly disposition, Chantecler Bantams are a charming addition to backyard flocks.
Cochin
Cochin chickens are known for their fluffy feathers and calm demeanor. Originating from China, they were introduced to the West in the 19th century.
Their feathered legs and feet, along with their distinctive appearance, make them popular in exhibitions. Cochins come in various colors, including buff, black, blue, and white, adding vibrancy to backyard flocks.
Cochin Bantam
Cochin Bantam chickens are a small and fluffy breed known for their friendly nature. They have feathered feet and come in various colors, like black, white, and buff. Despite their small size, they have a robust and round appearance.
These chickens are popular as pets due to their gentle temperament and easygoing disposition. Cochin Bantams are good with children and enjoy being handled. They have a distinctive appearance with their feathered legs and feathery plumage.
Originating from China, Cochin Bantams were introduced to the West in the 19th century. They quickly gained popularity for their ornamental qualities and became a favorite among poultry enthusiasts. Today, they are valued for their charming personalities and make great backyard companions.
Cornish
Cornish chickens, also known as Indian Game chickens, are a breed prized for their meat production. They have a stocky build with broad breasts and thick legs, making them excellent for meat production. Originally developed in England, they were bred for their fast growth and large size, making them popular in the poultry industry.
Cornish Bantam
Cornish Bantam chickens are a miniature version of the standard Cornish breed. They have a compact, muscular build and thick legs like their larger counterparts. Despite their small size, they still retain the distinctive appearance and meaty characteristics of the Cornish breed.
Crevecoeur
Crevecoeur chickens are a French breed known for their distinctive appearance and historical significance. They have striking black plumage with a unique V-shaped comb and feathered legs. This breed is renowned for its elegance and has a rich heritage dating back to the 19th century.
Crevecoeur Bantam
Crevecoeur Bantam chickens are a smaller version of the standard Crevecoeur breed. They possess the same distinctive appearance, including the V-shaped comb and feathered legs, but in a more compact size. Despite their smaller stature, they retain the elegance and historical significance of their larger counterparts.
Cubalaya
Cubalaya chickens are a striking breed with a unique appearance. They originated in Cuba and are known for their upright posture and long, flowing tail feathers. Their distinctive plumage and regal bearing make them popular choices for ornamental purposes and exhibitions.
Cubalaya Bantam
Cubalaya Bantam chickens are a smaller version of the standard Cubalaya breed. They retain the striking appearance and regal bearing of their larger counterparts but in a compact size. These bantams are prized for their ornamental qualities and are often showcased in exhibitions or kept as pets in backyard flocks.
Delaware Bantam
Delaware Bantam chickens are a smaller version of the standard Delaware breed. They retain the breed’s distinctive appearance and characteristics but in a compact size. These bantams are valued for their dual-purpose qualities, suitable for both egg production and meat.
Delaware
Delaware chickens are a dual-purpose breed known for their excellent egg production and meat quality. They originated in the United States in the 1940s, developed from crosses of New Hampshire Reds and Barred Plymouth Rocks. These birds have striking black and white plumage, with males typically larger than females.
Dominique
Dominique chickens are a heritage breed originating in the United States. They are known for their distinctive black and white barred plumage. Dominiques are dual-purpose birds, prized for their egg-laying capabilities and flavorful meat.
Dominique Bantam
Dominique Bantam chickens are mini versions of the standard Dominique breed, known for their petite size and charming appearance.
These bantams share the distinctive black and white striped plumage of their larger counterparts, capturing the essence of the original Dominique breed in a compact package.
Despite their small stature, Dominique Bantams retain the friendly and docile nature of the standard breed, making them suitable for backyard flocks and ideal for those with limited space. Their smaller size also makes them easier to handle, making them a favorite among poultry enthusiasts.
Dorking
Dorking chickens are an ancient breed known for their distinctive appearance and gentle nature. They have a rectangular body shape, five toes, and a distinctive red crest on their heads.
With a history dating back to Roman times, Dorkings are one of the oldest known chicken breeds. They are valued for both meat and egg production, and their white, well-marbled meat is considered a culinary delicacy.
Dorkings come in various colors, including Silver Grey, Red, White, and Dark. They are adaptable to different climates and are known for being calm and easy to handle, making them suitable for backyard flocks and small farms.
Dorking Bantam
Dorking Bantam chickens are smaller versions of the standard Dorking breed, maintaining the same rectangular body shape and unique five-toed feet.
These bantams come in various colors, including Silver Grey, Red, and White, showcasing the same distinctive features as their larger counterparts.
While not as common as standard Dorkings, these bantams are valued for their ornamental appeal, friendly temperament, and historical significance, making them a charming addition to backyard flocks and exhibitions.
Dutch Bantam
Dutch Bantam chickens are small, ornamental birds known for their charming appearance and friendly demeanor.
Originating in the Netherlands, they have a distinctive upright posture, short legs, and a compact body.
These bantams come in various colors, including Black, Blue, Silver, and Mille Fleur, adding vibrancy to backyard flocks and exhibitions.
Faverolle
Faverolle chickens are a French breed known for their unique appearance and friendly demeanor. They have feathered feet and a small beard, giving them a distinctive look. Faverolles come in several colors, including salmon, white, and cuckoo. They are dual-purpose birds, valued for both their egg-laying abilities and meat quality.
Favorelle Bantam
Faverolle Bantam chickens are a smaller version of the standard Faverolle breed. They retain the distinctive characteristics of their larger counterparts, including feathered feet and a small beard. Despite their diminutive size, they are known for their friendly demeanor and make delightful additions to backyard flocks or exhibitions.
Hamburg
Hamburg chickens are a small to medium-sized breed originating from Germany. They are known for their striking plumage patterns, including spangled, penciled, and laced varieties. Hamburgs are active, alert birds that excel in foraging and adapt well to various climates.
Hamburg Bantam
Hamburg Bantam chickens are small-sized versions of the standard Hamburg breed. They maintain the same distinctive plumage patterns and alert demeanor as their larger counterparts. Hamburg Bantams are popular choices for ornamental purposes due to their colorful and eye-catching appearance.
Holland
Holland chickens, also known as Dutch chickens, are a breed originating from the Netherlands. They are valued for their dual-purpose nature, being raised for both eggs and meat. Holland chickens are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability to various climates, making them popular choices for backyard flocks.
Holland Bantam
Holland Bantam chickens are a miniature version of the standard Holland breed, known for their compact size and charming demeanor.
These bantams share the same distinctive features, including feathered feet and a crest on their heads, contributing to their attractive appearance.
Despite their small size, Holland Bantams retain the friendly and docile nature of their larger counterparts, making them well-suited for smaller backyard environments.
Houdan
Houdan chickens, hailing from France, are easily recognizable due to their unique appearance with a crest of feathers on their heads and beards beneath their beaks.
With a medium size and rectangular body shape, Houdans sport distinctive white plumage. Notably, they showcase a v-shaped comb topped with a small central knob, setting them apart in the poultry world.
Houdan Bantam
Houdan Bantam chickens are a miniature version of the standard Houdan breed, known for their small size and distinctive appearance.
They share the same v-shaped comb with a central knob, along with the characteristic crest of feathers on their heads and beards beneath their beaks.
Despite their smaller stature, Houdan Bantams retain the calm and friendly temperament of their larger counterparts, making them suitable for smaller backyard settings.
Japanese Bantam
Japanese Bantam chickens are a small and ornamental breed known for their compact size and distinctive appearance.
Originating in Japan, these bantams have short legs, a large tail carried high, and a distinctive single comb.
They come in various colors and feather patterns, adding to their aesthetic appeal, and are popular among poultry enthusiasts for exhibition purposes.
Java
Java chickens are a dual-purpose breed originating from the United States. They are known for their robustness and adaptability to various climates. With striking plumage colors like Black, Mottled, and White, they add aesthetic value to any flock. Owners appreciate their versatility, as they are good layers of brown eggs and also have decent meat quality.
Java Bantam
Java Bantam chickens are a miniature version of the standard Java breed. They share the same distinctive appearance with glossy plumage and broad bodies but in a smaller size. Despite their diminutive stature, they retain the calm temperament and dual-purpose characteristics of their larger counterparts. Java Bantams are prized for their ornamental value and are popular among poultry enthusiasts for small backyard flocks or exhibition purposes.
Jersey Giant
Jersey Giant chickens are a large and robust breed originally developed in the United States. They are known for their impressive size, with males weighing up to 13 pounds and females up to 10 pounds. Jersey Giants are dual-purpose birds, valued for their meat production and decent egg-laying capabilities.
Jersey Giant Bantam
Jersey Giant Bantam chickens are a miniature version of the standard Jersey Giant breed. They retain the same impressive appearance and docile temperament but in a smaller size. Despite their diminutive stature, they are valued for their ornamental qualities and gentle nature, making them popular among poultry enthusiasts.
KO Shamo Bantam
KO Shamo Bantam chickens are small versions of the standard KO Shamo breed. Despite their diminutive size, they exhibit the same strong and muscular build as their larger counterparts. Originating in Japan, these bantams have a distinctive appearance with sleek feathers and a fierce yet friendly demeanor.
Known for their combat prowess, KO Shamo Bantams have a history rooted in cockfighting. Over time, their aggressive tendencies have mellowed, and they now make excellent backyard companions. With striking colors and compact stature, these bantams add a touch of exotic flair to any flock.
La Fleche
La Fleche chickens, originating from France, are known for their distinct V-shaped comb that resembles a horn. This unique feature adds to their charming appearance and makes them easily recognizable. With glossy black feathers and a medium-sized build, La Fleche chickens are both attractive and functional in various poultry settings.
These chickens have a lively and active disposition, displaying good foraging behaviors. La Fleche hens are reliable layers of large white eggs, making them practical for those seeking both ornamental and egg-producing breeds. The breed is relatively hardy and adapts well to different climates, making them suitable for various backyard or small farm environments.
LaFleche Bantam
La Fleche Bantam chickens are a smaller version of the standard La Fleche breed. Despite their diminutive size, they retain the distinctive V-shaped comb that characterizes the breed. With glossy black feathers and a lively demeanor, La Fleche Bantams make charming additions to backyard flocks, combining ornamental appeal with a compact stature.
Lakenvelder
Lakenvelder chickens are a small, lightweight breed known for their striking black and white coloration, resembling a white sheet draped over their bodies.
They have a single comb and white earlobes, adding to their distinct appearance. Lakenvelders are active foragers and adapt well to free-range environments. Despite their smaller size, they are valued for both their egg-laying capabilities and ornamental appeal.
Lakenvelder Bantam
Lakenvelder Bantam chickens are smaller versions of the standard Lakenvelder breed, known for their striking black and white plumage.
They are friendly and make good pets in backyard settings. Lakenvelder Bantams are valued for their ornamental appearance and moderate egg-laying capabilities.
Lamona
Lamona chickens are a dual-purpose breed known for their productivity. They originate from the United States and were developed for both meat and egg production. Lamona chickens have a calm temperament, making them suitable for backyard flocks or small farms. They have distinctive black and white speckled plumage, adding visual interest to any flock.
Lamona Bantam
Lamona Bantam chickens are smaller versions of the standard Lamona breed. They retain the same striking black and white speckled plumage as their larger counterparts. Despite their diminutive size, they maintain the dual-purpose qualities of the standard Lamona, providing both meat and eggs.
Langshan
Langshan chickens are a breed of domestic poultry known for their tall and graceful appearance. They originate from China and are recognized for their glossy black plumage. Langshans are valued for their dual-purpose qualities, providing both meat and eggs.
Langshan Bantam
Langshan Bantam chickens are smaller versions of the standard Langshan breed. They retain the breed’s elegant appearance, characterized by their tall and upright stature. Despite their diminutive size, Langshan Bantams still showcase the glossy black plumage that distinguishes the breed.
Leghorn
Leghorn chickens are a popular breed known for their egg-laying abilities. They originated in Italy and were brought to the United States in the 1800s. Leghorns come in various colors, including white, brown, and black. They are valued for their high productivity, often laying around 280 to 320 eggs per year.
Leghorn Bantam
Leghorn Bantam chickens are miniature versions of the standard Leghorn breed. They share many characteristics with their larger counterparts, including their active demeanor and excellent egg-laying abilities. Despite their small size, Leghorn Bantams are known for their spunky personalities and colorful plumage, making them popular choices for backyard poultry enthusiasts looking for compact and productive birds.
Malay
Malay chickens are an ancient and unique breed known for their tall and upright stature. Originating from Southeast Asia, they have long been admired for their impressive height and striking appearance. Malay chickens have a distinctive long neck, long legs, and upright stance, giving them a regal and majestic presence. They are primarily raised for exhibition purposes and as a rare breed in backyard flocks rather than for meat or egg production.
Malay Bantam
Malay Bantam chickens are small, compact birds known for their distinctive appearance and gentle demeanor. They originated in Malaysia and are prized for their elegant stature and graceful movements. These chickens have glossy black feathers, bright red combs, and long legs, giving them a regal appearance. Despite their small size, they are resilient and adaptable to various environments.
Marans
Marans chickens are a breed originating from the town of Marans in France. They are known for their rich, chocolate-colored eggs, which are highly sought after by enthusiasts and chefs alike. Marans chickens come in various colors, including black, cuckoo, and wheaten, and they are prized for their hardiness and adaptability to different climates.
Minorca
Minorca chickens are known for their sleek and upright appearance, standing tall with a proud bearing. Originating in Spain, they have large, white earlobes and red wattles, adding to their distinctive look. They are prolific egg layers, producing large white eggs, and have active and alert personalities. Minorcas are adaptable to various climates and make excellent foragers in free-range settings.
Minorca Bantam
Minorca Bantam chickens are smaller versions of their standard-sized counterparts. They share the same upright posture and distinctive appearance with glossy plumage. Known for their large, white eggs, Minorca Bantams are valued for their compact size, making them suitable for smaller backyard spaces.
Modern Game
Modern Game chickens are known for their upright posture, sleek bodies, and close-fitting feathers. Originating in the United Kingdom, they were developed for exhibition and ornamental purposes. With their distinctive appearance, long legs, and striking colors, Modern Game chickens have become popular in the poultry fancy world.
Modern Game Bantam
Modern Game Bantam chickens are a diminutive version of their larger counterparts, renowned for their elegant appearance and upright posture. With compact bodies and vibrant plumage, they bring a touch of sophistication to small-scale poultry keeping. Popular in the exhibition circuit, these bantams showcase the same bold demeanor and striking aesthetics as their standard-sized counterparts.
Naked Neck
Naked Neck chickens, also known as Turken or Transylvanian Naked Neck, are distinct for their featherless necks and often have exposed skin on their bodies. Originating in Central Europe, they are hardy and known for their ability to tolerate various climates. The breed is valued for its dual-purpose capabilities, providing both meat and eggs, and it continues to gain popularity among backyard poultry keepers.
Naked Neck Bantam
Naked Neck Bantam chickens are smaller versions of the standard Naked Neck breed. They retain the distinct feature of having featherless necks. Despite their diminutive size, they exhibit similar hardiness and friendly temperaments as their larger counterparts. Naked Neck Bantams are popular among backyard poultry keepers for their unique appearance and manageable size.
Nankin Bantam
Nankin Bantam chickens are a small breed known for their charming appearance and gentle temperament. They originated in China and were once favored as ornamental birds in gardens and courtyards. Despite their diminutive size, they are hardy and adaptable to various climates.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire chickens are a popular breed known for their productivity and hardiness. They were developed in the United States in the early 20th century, originating from Rhode Island Reds. New Hampshires are prized for their excellent egg-laying abilities and meat quality, making them a favorite among backyard enthusiasts and small-scale farmers.
New Hampshire Bantam
New Hampshire Bantam chickens are a smaller version of the standard New Hampshire breed. They retain many of the same characteristics, including their vibrant plumage and dual-purpose capabilities. Despite their smaller size, New Hampshire Bantams are known for their productivity and adaptability to various environments.
Old English Game
Old English Game chickens are a historic breed prized for their distinctive appearance and spirited demeanor. Originating in England, they were originally bred for cockfighting but are now primarily kept for exhibition and ornamental purposes. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, each with its own unique charm and appeal.
Old English Game Bantam
Old English Game Bantams are small chickens with a rich history. They are miniature versions of the standard Old English Game chickens and retain their spirited demeanor. Despite their small size, they are known for their striking appearance and vibrant color patterns.
Orpington
Orpington chickens are a popular breed known for their friendly disposition and dual-purpose nature. They were developed in the 19th century in England by William Cook, who aimed to create a breed that was both excellent for meat and egg production. Orpingtons come in several colors, including buff, black, blue, and white, with their fluffy plumage and gentle demeanor making them a favorite among backyard chicken enthusiasts.
Orpington Bantam
Orpington Bantam chickens are smaller versions of the standard Orpington breed, prized for their compact size and friendly demeanor. Despite their small stature, they retain the same fluffy plumage and gentle temperament as their larger counterparts. Orpington Bantams come in various colors, including buff, black, blue, and white, making them visually appealing additions to any backyard flock.
Phoenix
Phoenix chickens are a distinctive breed known for their long, flowing tail feathers and striking appearance. Originating in Japan, they come in a variety of colors, including black, silver, gold, and red. Phoenix chickens are prized for their elegant and ornamental qualities, making them popular in exhibition and backyard settings alike.
Phoenix Bantam
Phoenix Bantam chickens are a smaller version of the standard Phoenix breed, known for their striking appearance and long, flowing tail feathers.
These bantams originated in Japan and come in various colors, including black, silver, gold, and red. Despite their smaller size, Phoenix Bantams retain the ornamental qualities of their larger counterparts, making them popular in exhibition and backyard settings.
Plymouth Rock
Plymouth Rock chickens, commonly known as “Barred Rocks,” are a dual-purpose breed valued for meat and eggs.
They have distinctive black and white striped plumage, making them easily recognizable. Known for their friendly and docile nature, Plymouth Rocks are popular among backyard poultry keepers.
Plymouth Rock Bantam
Plymouth Rock Bantam chickens are a downsized version of their standard counterparts, with the same distinctive black and white striped feather pattern. Despite their small size, they maintain a friendly and calm demeanor, making them suitable for smaller spaces. These bantams are known for their efficient egg-laying, producing smaller brown eggs consistently throughout the year.
Polish
Polish chickens are known for their distinctive crests of feathers on top of their heads, giving them a unique and quirky appearance. These crests can vary in size and shape, adding charm to the breed. They are generally small to medium-sized chickens and are kept for both ornamental and egg-laying purposes. The breed is friendly and often enjoys human interaction, making them popular among backyard chicken keepers.
Polish Bantam
Polish Bantam chickens are a smaller version of the standard Polish breed, bred specifically for their diminutive size. They possess the same distinctive characteristics as their larger counterparts, including the large crests of feathers on their heads and colorful plumage. Despite their smaller stature, Polish Bantams exhibit the same friendly and docile temperament as standard Polish chickens, making them popular choices for backyard flocks and exhibition poultry shows.
Redcap
Redcap chickens are a breed known for their striking appearance and lively personality. They have distinctively bright red combs and wattles, which stand out against their predominantly black plumage. Originating from England, Redcaps are dual-purpose birds, valued for both their egg-laying abilities and flavorful meat.
Redcap Bantam
Redcap Bantam chickens are a smaller variant of the standard Redcap breed. They possess the same striking appearance, with vibrant red combs and wattles against black plumage. Despite their smaller size, they retain the lively personality and engaging behavior of their larger counterparts.
Rhode Island Red
Rhode Island Red chickens are a popular breed known for their excellent egg-laying capabilities. They originated in the United States and are renowned for their hardiness and adaptability to various climates. These chickens have distinctive mahogany-colored feathers and often possess a calm and friendly disposition.
Rhode Island Red Bantam
Rhode Island Red Bantam chickens are a smaller variant of the standard Rhode Island Red breed. They possess the same distinctive mahogany-red plumage and are known for their friendly demeanor. Despite their diminutive size, they are still prolific egg layers, making them a popular choice for backyard poultry enthusiasts with limited space.
Rhode Island White
Rhode Island White chickens are a breed known for their striking appearance and excellent egg-laying abilities. They originated in the United States in the early 20th century, developed by crossing White Wyandottes and Partridge Cochins. These chickens have white plumage and are valued for their docile temperament and reliable egg production.
Rhode Island White Bantam
Rhode Island White Bantam chickens are miniature versions of the standard Rhode Island White breed. They retain the same snowy white plumage and friendly temperament but in a smaller size. Despite their diminutive stature, they are excellent layers of medium-sized eggs, making them popular choices for backyard poultry enthusiasts with limited space.
Rosecomb Bantam
Rosecomb Bantam chickens are a small breed known for their unique rose-shaped comb. They have a compact and rounded body with short legs. Despite their small size, they are lively and active birds, making them popular among poultry enthusiasts.
Sebright Bantam
Sebright Bantam chickens are small and elegant birds, known for their lustrous plumage and striking appearance. Developed in the 19th century, they were initially bred for ornamental purposes and remain a popular choice for poultry enthusiasts. Their distinctive feature is the laced or spangled feather pattern, giving them a charming and unique look. Despite their diminutive size, Sebright Bantams are hardy and active, making them a delightful addition to backyard flocks.
Serama (American) Bantam
Serama Bantam chickens, often called the world’s smallest chickens, originated in Malaysia. These tiny bantams are known for their friendly and docile nature, making them suitable as pets or for small-space living. Seramas come in various colors and feather patterns, adding a delightful diversity to their appearance.
Shamo
Shamo chickens are a Japanese breed known for their large size and distinctive upright posture. With a strong and muscular build, they are often admired for their powerful appearance. Originally developed for cockfighting, Shamos are now raised for ornamental purposes and are recognized for their unique and imposing presence in poultry yards.
Shamo Bantam
Shamo Bantam chickens are a compact version of the larger Shamo breed, developed for those with limited space. They share the same upright and powerful appearance as their larger counterparts. Despite their small size, Shamo Bantams retain the distinctive characteristics and history associated with the Shamo breed, making them a unique addition to backyard flocks.
Sicilian Buttercup
Sicilian Buttercup chickens are a charming and active breed known for their distinctive rose comb that resembles a crown. They have a small to medium size with a graceful and alert posture. Renowned for their egg-laying capabilities, these chickens produce medium-sized white eggs and bring a touch of elegance to any backyard flock with their unique appearance and lively nature.
Silkie Bantam
Silkie Bantam chickens are a small and fluffy breed known for their unique appearance. They have soft, silky feathers that lack barbicels, giving them a distinct fluffy appearance. Silkie Bantams are renowned for their gentle and friendly temperament, making them popular as pets and for children’s shows.
Spanish
Spanish chickens are a group of breeds originating from Spain, known for their elegance and productivity. They come in various colors and sizes, with distinctive characteristics such as upright body carriage and large combs. Spanish chickens are valued for their egg-laying abilities and are often prized for their flavorful meat.
Spanish Bantam
Spanish Bantam chickens are small-sized birds known for their elegant appearance and active nature. They are a bantam version of the larger Spanish chicken breed, retaining many of their distinctive characteristics in a smaller package. Spanish Bantams come in various colors and patterns, making them popular as ornamental birds in backyard flocks and poultry shows.
Sultan
Sultan chickens are a small and ornamental breed known for their distinctive appearance. Originating from the Ottoman Empire, they feature a regal bearing with abundant, fluffy plumage and distinctive V-shaped combs. Sultans are primarily kept for their ornamental value, adding a touch of elegance to poultry collections and exhibitions.
Sultan Bantam
Sultan Bantam chickens are miniature versions of the standard Sultan breed, known for their small size and ornamental appeal.
These bantams retain the distinctive features of their larger counterparts, including the crest on their heads and feathered feet. Due to their compact size and charming appearance, Sultan Bantams are popular choices for small backyard flocks and as exhibition birds.
Sumatra
Sumatra chickens are an ancient and rare breed originating from Indonesia. Known for their striking appearance, they have glossy black plumage, long tails, and bright red faces. Sumatras are often kept for exhibition purposes, and they have a spirited and active demeanor.
Sumatra Bantam
Sumatra Bantam chickens are smaller versions of the standard Sumatra breed. They share the breed’s striking black plumage and long, flowing tails. Despite their diminutive size, Sumatra Bantams retain the distinctive ornamental appeal and unique characteristics of their larger counterparts.
Sussex
Sussex chickens are a traditional and popular breed known for their friendly disposition and dual-purpose qualities. They come in various colors, including white, red, and speckled. Sussex chickens are valued for both their egg-laying capabilities and quality meat production, making them a versatile choice for backyard poultry keepers.
Sussex Bantam
Sussex Bantam chickens are smaller versions of the standard Sussex breed. They have the same attractive plumage patterns as their larger counterparts. Despite their diminutive size, Sussex Bantams retain the friendly and docile temperament of the standard Sussex breed.
Welsummer
Welsummer chickens are a Dutch breed known for their beautiful reddish-brown plumage with distinctive dark brown speckles. They are prized for their large, dark brown eggs with speckles, making them popular among backyard chicken keepers for both their appearance and egg-laying capabilities. Welsummers are generally friendly and hardy birds, well-suited to various climates and backyard environments.
Welsummer Bantam
Welsummer Bantam chickens are a smaller version of the standard Welsummer breed. They typically weigh around 1.5 to 2 pounds when fully grown. These chickens are known for their striking appearance, with rich, reddish-brown feathers and distinctive black and white markings. Welsummer Bantams are popular among backyard poultry enthusiasts for their friendly demeanor and ability to lay small, brown eggs.
Wyandotte
Wyandotte chickens are a popular breed known for their rounded shape and feathering. They come in a variety of colors including silver, gold, and blue laced. Wyandottes are dual-purpose birds, valued for both their meat and egg production capabilities.
Wyandotte Bantam
Wyandotte Bantam chickens are smaller versions of the standard Wyandotte breed. They retain the same distinctive appearance, including the rose comb and feathered legs, but in a compact size. Despite their smaller stature, they are valued for their ornamental appeal and friendly demeanor.
Yokohama
Yokohama chickens are a unique breed known for their striking appearance and elegant carriage. They originated in Japan and are named after the city of Yokohama. Yokohamas are primarily kept for ornamental purposes, admired for their long, flowing tail feathers and distinctive color patterns.