We’ll examine the Cochin chicken, one of the largest birds in the farmyard, in today’s post. Although the Cochin isn’t renowned for being the best meat bird or layer, a country began raising backyard chickens because of its enormous size, unusual fluffy appearance, and huge feathered legs. And many a chicken owner has come to love it for its calm, kind disposition. These days, different color and size variations of this breed are recognized, ranging from big to bantam. These are some of the largest chickens available, with hens weighing approximately 8.5 pounds and roosters reaching up to 11 pounds. Their thick, fluffy feathers, which extend to cover most of their feet and legs, give them the appearance of being even larger.
The History of the Cochin Chicken
The origins of the Cochin chicken are unknown, but in the middle of the 1800s, the Shanghai chicks were brought to the United Kingdom from China and given to Queen Victoria. In the UK, the first Cochins were referred to as Cochin-China. The Cochins of today differ greatly from the Cochins that were first brought to the UK. They resembled large, rangy game birds more than domestic chickens. The hens’ appearance changed as a result of selective breeding practices used by breeders. But the breeding process also made them less capable of laying eggs, and finally, the flesh started to taste bad. These fluffy companions are still raised for their eggs, but they are also widely kept as ornamental, companion, or show chickens.
Physical Characteristics
Cochin chickens are distinguished as an “oriental” breed by their dense feathering. Their feathers accentuate their stocky bodies, and they have a short tail. There are feathers on the feet and legs as well. Males can weigh up to 12 pounds, although these chickens often average between 7 and 9 pounds. They are not well suited for flight due to their small wings. In addition to having a comb and waddle, males are bigger than females. Sharp spurs can grow on the inside of the legs of both males and females, although roosters usually use these for fighting.
Breed Standards
Cochins stand out for their enormous size and incredibly fluffy plumage. Their puffy appearance is caused by the loosely held feathers of their breed, which are known as “soft feathered.” Although I love large hens, I understand that they can be frightening, particularly to those who are unfamiliar with animals or hens. Knowing that cochins are simply large birds with a lot of feathers may help you feel more at ease.
Appearance
Large and spherical, with a profusion of soft feathering, especially on the feet, cochins are a distinctive breed with unusual plumage. Their long, silky feathers are covered in down fiber in the underfur. The base of the tails of females features a noticeable feather development known as a cushion. The Cochin breed is available in a range of colors, such as brown, black, buff, partridge, silver-laced, brown with bars, and white. But as of right now, they are only offered in Australia. There is also a bantam variant of cochins.
Broodiness and mothering
Cochin Bantams are renowned for being outstanding mothers and setters. Many homesteaders appreciate that they are naturally broody because it means the hens will hatch and nurture their own chicks, which eliminates the need for an incubator or brooder. Pure Poultry author Victoria Redhed Miller even hatched and raised turkeys with Cochin Bantam hens! A banana cochin that has gone broody will seldom leave the nest and will defend her eggs fiercely. The Bantam Cochin hen will be a devoted and loving mother after the babies hatch. She will educate her chicks on where to obtain food and water, in addition to keeping them warm. It is well known that bantam cochins are fiercely protective of their young and will fight back against any perceived danger.
Behavior
One of the kindest and friendliest breeds of chickens that may be found is the Cochin. They are described as easygoing, carefree, and occasionally indolent. They get along well with people and are social birds. Even among other males, the huge roosters are amiable and tend to act a lot like hens. The roosters don’t crow all that loudly during the day, but they do occasionally. They are quiet, submissive, and even open to caring for eggs. Conversely, bantam roosters are known for their tenacity and willingness to fight other birds. Their small stature might play a role in this.
Temperament
Everyone agrees that Cochin Chicken are among the kindest and calmest birds around. Even roosters are typically amiable and affectionate. When they are still young, they frequently eat a lot and can be seen dozing off face first in their food in between meals. They are simple to handle and tame because they aren’t as energetic as other chicks. They are therefore perfect for aspiring hen keepers (under adult supervision). You may simply train a juvenile cochin to follow you from the run to the garden and back again. They don’t have much to get up and go about either. So, it’s doubtful that they’ll go foraging once you get to your location.
Size and Weight
- Large chickens, Cochin Chicken weight about 8½lb for hens and 10–11lb for roosters.
- Pekin bantams are a subset of bantam breeds that are suitable for those seeking a smaller breed.
- Pekin hens weigh 26 ounces, while roosters weigh 30 ounces. There are sixteen different color variants of bantams available.
- Distinguishing between hens and roosters can be challenging.
- About four weeks is when roosters usually begin to spread out their combs. The hens’ combs will remain little and pale pink in hue, but theirs will grow larger and redder. A hen can also be identified by behavioral cues, including being subservient, keeping to the back, and literally keeping a low profile.
- The telltale sign of an adult is when they start to croak!
Coop Setup
- Due to their size and fluffy coat, each of these dogs needs a minimum of 4 square feet of space within the coop.
- As usual, more is preferable, particularly when crossed with more forceful types like Cochins.
- Giving cochins plenty of room helps keep them safe from bullies because they are quite submissive and will be at the bottom of the pecking order. Give them ten to twelve inches of room each for perching. However, just like with coop space, greater area is preferable since it will allow them to spread out during the warmer summer months.
- Ultimately, they will have plenty of space to settle inside a conventional (12 x 12 inches) nesting box, leaving no place for double bunking.
Egg Production
When cochins were originally brought to the market, they weren’t bred for show, but they were still good egg layers. Following their introduction to the West, Cochins’ egg-laying ability drastically decreased as people wished for them to be reduced to a decorative breed. Cochins are increasingly recognized for having decent layers. A cock will lay between 150 and 180 medium-sized eggs per year, or about three per week.
Lifespan of Cochin Chicken
If they are not consumed first, Cochin chickens can live for up to eight or ten years. They are not the best breed to use for eggs or meat. Their population declined along with their popularity during the fancy chicken craze, but according to the Livestock Conservancy, the breed is currently rebounding. Many backyard breeders throughout the world find them to be attractive ornamental chickens due to their pleasant attitude, attractive appearance, and ease of handling.
Health Issues
- Cochins are typically relatively healthy breeds; therefore, uncommon diseases should not be a concern.
- You should anticipate that, being fluff balls, they will eventually require treatment for lice or mites.
- It is up to you if you treat them on a regular basis or only when needed.
- Worms can also be an issue, so you should be cautious around hens who appear underweight or listless. A fecal float test at your neighborhood vet will provide you with a diagnosis if you’re unsure.
- Wet, muddy, or snowy conditions are not ideal for these birds, especially considering their feathers.
- Mudballs that are lodged in their feathery feet have the potential to cause frostbite. Sand is better for their feet, so use it in the run and try to keep their feet dry and clean.
Is Cochin Chicken Good for You?
- Yes, if you eat Cochin chickens, they’re healthy for you.
- Desire to raise some exquisite chicks.
- are prepared to own a few peaceful, kind hens.
- I would like to retain a few broody hens that are excellent mothers.
- I desire to own some lovely and amiable hens as pets.
- Are you considering expanding your flock with a few hens?
- reside in a chilly climate.
- wish to improve your backyard’s aesthetic appeal.
Social Behavior of Cochin Chicken
Cochin hens are gregarious creatures that are typically seen in groups consisting of one male and many females. They are quieter than other hens; you hardly ever hear them clucking or crowing. Cochins are well-liked as farm residents because of their kind and peaceful nature. They can’t fly very far because of their short wings and thick bodies, but they can roost in low trees. Females use a naked patch of skin on their chest that develops when brooding to incubate eggs, and they build their nests on the ground. Each clutch produces about twelve eggs, and the hens stop laying when the nest “feels full.” Brown eggs of medium size are incubated for roughly three weeks. After a few days, the chicks begin to eat, but their parents do not give them food; instead, the hen finds food for the chicks, who then feed themselves.
Cochins make great pet chickens
Cochins are an excellent option if you’re searching for a breed of chicken that can both provide you with eggs and be a pet. They can be trained to hop into your lap and feed from your hand because they are so friendly. But this teaching must begin when the chicks are still small.
Cochins are an excellent option if you have little children because they even allow kids to pick them up and cuddle with them. Even the Cochin roosters are rather gentle, but until you are certain of their disposition, you should be cautious while keeping them close to small children.
Maintenance and care
Maintaining the foot feathering of Cochins is necessary to prevent unsightly, unclean stains. When required, trim the long feathers around the legs and feet of Cochin Chicken that are allowed to roam freely (the bird won’t suffer). Cochins will not become dirty if they are housed in a dry, secure enclosure with soft rice hulls or fine wood shavings for walking on. If the birds are to be displayed, this also helps to prevent damage to the foot feathering. Cochin Chicken must be shielded from the heat throughout the summer. Their soft, thick plumage helps them to survive in colder areas. If the weather is particularly hot (such as on days that are in the mid-30s and above), the birds can stay cool by intermittently spraying water from a bottle with a mist nozzle. They need to be given a balanced meal high in protein and have access to fresh, clean, and cold water at all times. Most uncommon breeds and purebred fowl benefit from additional vitamins and preventative drugs for worm and disease issues. Since birds can pass away very rapidly, keep a close eye out for any indications of illness or discomfort. Cochins can roam freely throughout the day, but they need to have access to nesting areas and cover.