Cochin:

Cochins are known the world over for being big friendly balls of fluff and feathers. They don’t lay well but are very popular because of their sweet personality and fantastic mothering qualities. Cochins became famous in the 1800s when this Chinese breed was given as a gift to Queen Victoria of England, who absolutely adored them.

Chicken Breed History:

Cochins originated from China and found their way to the UK and the US in the mid 19th century. Poultry fanciers were taken aback by their unique plumage and their giant size though much of thier mass was an illusion created by their strange but remarkable huge cushion of feathers. Once in the US, the breed underwent considerable breeding changes and the bantam was created from its larger counterpart. In Britain these bantam cochins are known as pekin bantams. Pekins maintain a slightly different type as they have been bred for hundreds years an ocean away from our cochin bantams. Pekins are slightly smaller and rounder and some refer to them as a completely different breed. This ornamental breed we know as cochins is equally popular for poultry fanciers on both sides of the Atlantic as well as around the world.

Chicken Breed Comments / Experience:

Cochins roosters, generally speaking, are extremely gentle. I can walk over and pick mine up. Their excessive feathering gets in the way of a speedy getaway so running fast is not an option. They are good fathers who often feed the chicks and some have been known to warm them. The hens make excellent broodies and many breeders of different fowl use them for this purpose. The breed is wonderful for the beginner because of their gentle nature but, beware, the thick plumage from head to toe can cover ailments. Cochins need to be checked often, as with any breed, for parasites and injuries that may be hiding.