La Flèche Bantam

The La Flèche Bantam is defined by its upright and elegant carriage. It possesses a cylindrical body with a broad, well-arched chest and a long, straight back. One of its most identifying features is the V-shaped comb, consisting of two round, vertical horns of equal length. Unlike many breeds, the nostrils are remarkably large and open, topped with a small fleshy bridge or 'wart.'

• Body Shape: Long, cylindrical, and powerful.
• Comb: Horned V-shape, approximately 0.4-0.6 inches (1-1.5cm) in length.
• Earlobes: Pure white and almond-shaped.
• Eyes: Large, fiery orange-red.
• Legs: Long, strong legs of dark slate-blue to lead-gray color.

While primarily kept for exhibition and ornamental purposes in the United States, the La Flèche Bantam is a respectable layer for a decorative breed. Hens typically produce around 120 eggs per year. The eggs are white to slightly pinkish in color and have a minimum weight of approximately 1.2 oz (35g).

The rooster is significantly more imposing, weighing approximately 1.75-2 lbs (800-900g). He displays long, well-curved sickles in his tail, which is carried at a right angle to the back. The horns on the rooster's comb can reach up to 1 inch (25mm).

Hens are smaller, weighing 1.5-1.75 lbs (700-800g), and have a more refined appearance. Their V-comb is shorter, usually limited to 0.6 inches (15mm). Both sexes should exhibit a strong green sheen in the black variety, without any hints of purple or blue.

The breed is remarkably hardy and robust, having inherited strong vitality from its large-fowl ancestors. They are known to be winter-hardy and can withstand rough weather conditions well. However, due to their active nature and ability to fly, they perform best when provided with ample space and high fencing.

The most common and sought-after color is Black, which must show a brilliant beetle-green sheen. Other recognized varieties include White, Blue (with dark slate-blue legs), and Cuckoo. In all varieties, a lead-gray to dark slate-blue leg color is standard, though older birds may show lighter gray legs.

The La Flèche Bantam is one of the youngest bantam breeds. It was developed in Germany during the late 1950s by breeder H. Seebach. The breed was created by crossing large La Flèche chickens with German Bantams and Rhinelander Bantams. High-quality specimens began appearing consistently at shows around 1973. It was created to preserve the unique 'devilish' look of the large French breed in a more manageable size for backyard enthusiasts.