Rhinelander Bantam

The Rhinelander Bantam is characterized by a rectangular, elongated body with a deep, well-filled breast. One of its most defining features is the small rose comb that sits low and tight on the head, covered in fine pearls and ending in a spike that follows the curve of the neck. The breed has small, oval white earlobes and dark brown eyes, giving it a confident yet approachable look.

• Body: Broad between the shoulders, tapering only slightly toward the rear.
• Comb: Rose type, very stable and resistant to frostbite.
• Legs: Clean (unfeathered) and medium-long, colored slate blue to black.
• Plumage: Tight and smooth, never loose or cushion-like.

Unlike many ornamental bantams, the Rhinelander was developed to be a productive layer. They reach maturity early and are known for their consistency, even in less-than-ideal weather. The eggs are surprisingly large for the size of the bird, typically weighing around 1.2 oz (35g). The shell color is pure white. While they are active layers, they are generally not known for being overly broody, making them better suited for those prioritizing egg collection over natural hatching.

Sexual dimorphism is quite evident in this breed. The rooster weighs between 35-39 oz (1000-1100g) and carries a long, broad tail with abundant sickles and secondary sickles. The hen is smaller, weighing 28-32 oz (800-900g). While the rooster has a proud, slightly more upright carriage, the hen is prized for maintaining a perfectly horizontal posture. The hen's tail is also broad at the base but less spread than the rooster's.

The Rhinelander Bantam is considered Very Hardy. Breeders have long valued the breed for its resilience in harsh winters. Because of their tight rose comb and close-fitting plumage, they are much less susceptible to frostbite than large-combed breeds. They are particularly well-suited for northern climates where other breeds might struggle with damp or freezing conditions.

The breed is recognized in several traditional patterns. In its home region of Germany, five main varieties are allowed: Black, White, Blue, Cuckoo, and Partridge. The Blue variety is especially striking, featuring a pigeon-blue ground color with a narrow black lacing on each feather, similar to the Andalusian pattern. In the Netherlands, recognition is primarily limited to Black, White, and Blue.