Dutch Bantam

The Dutch Bantam is a true bantam breed, meaning it has no large fowl counterpart. These birds are extremely small, with roosters weighing only 550-650 grams and hens 450-550 grams. They have a single comb, red wattles, and white earlobes.

One of their most distinctive features is their upright tail carriage, which is held at a 45-degree angle. They have clean legs (no feathering) and come in many color varieties. Dutch Bantams are known for being active, alert, and excellent flyers despite their small size.

Dutch Bantam hens are good layers for their size, producing approximately 160-200 small white eggs per year. The eggs are proportionally small, typically weighing around 30-35 grams each.

They tend to be seasonal layers, with peak production during spring and summer months. While not the most prolific layers, their eggs are of good quality and the hens are known to be reliable producers throughout the laying season.

Dutch Bantams are hardy birds that adapt well to various climates. They originated in the Netherlands, which has a temperate maritime climate, so they handle cold weather reasonably well. However, their small size means they need protection from extreme cold and wet conditions.

They require a dry, draft-free coop with good ventilation. In cold climates, additional protection and possibly heat may be needed during harsh winters. They are excellent foragers and do well in free-range situations during favorable weather.

Dutch Bantam roosters are slightly larger than hens, weighing 550-650 grams compared to the hen's 450-550 grams. Roosters have more prominent combs and wattles, and their tail feathers are longer and more curved, creating the characteristic upright tail carriage.

Hens have a more compact, rounded appearance with shorter tail feathers. Both sexes are active and alert, but roosters can be quite vocal. Dutch Bantam roosters are generally not aggressive and can often be kept together in small groups, though individual temperament varies.

Dutch Bantams come in numerous recognized color varieties, making them one of the most diverse bantam breeds in terms of coloration. Popular varieties include:

• Black: Solid black with green sheen
• White: Pure white throughout
• Blue: Slate blue coloration
• Partridge: Rich brown with black markings
• Silver: Silver and black pattern
• Gold: Golden and black pattern
• Lavender: Soft lavender-gray
• Porcelain: Cream and blue pattern

Many other color varieties exist, and new ones continue to be developed by dedicated breeders.