Rhode Island Red Bantam

The Rhode Island Red Bantam is defined by its long, rectangular body shape, which is considered a biological prerequisite for its high egg and meat productivity. The breed features a horizontal backline that flows into a moderately sized tail. They stand on sturdy, medium-length legs that are a rich yellow color, often showing a reddish horn-colored line down the sides of the shanks in high-quality specimens.

• Plumage: The feathers are tightly fitted and hard, exhibiting a brilliant, deep mahogany-red luster that should ideally extend all the way down to the skin.
• Comb and Face: They are recognized in both single and rose comb varieties. The face, earlobes, and wattles are a vibrant red, complemented by reddish-brown eyes.
• Build: Roosters typically weigh between 32-35 oz (900-1000g), while hens weigh approximately 28-32 oz (800-900g).

Unlike many ornamental bantam breeds, the Rhode Island Red was bred for high utility. Even in its miniaturized form, it remains an excellent layer of relatively large eggs for its size.

• Annual Production: Hens can lay between 150 to 200 eggs per year.
• Egg Weight: The average weight of a hatching egg is roughly 1.4 oz (40g).
• Egg Color: The shells range from light yellow to brownish.

They are generally low in broodiness, meaning they focus more on continuous laying than on sitting on nests, though they are calm enough to be managed easily during the breeding season.

The differences between the sexes are primarily found in the secondary sexual characteristics and posture. Both maintain the breed's signature rectangular silhouette, but the rooster's stance is often more upright.

• The Rooster: Features a fuller neck hackle and a tail with short, well-curved sickle feathers that should only slightly overlap the main tail feathers. The rooster’s comb is larger and more pronounced.
• The Hen: Possesses a highly developed abdomen (egg belly), signifying her laying capacity. Her comb remains small and upright, and her tail is carried at a lower angle, roughly 20 degrees above the horizontal, forming a nearly straight line from the back.

The Rhode Island Red Bantam is exceptionally hardy and adaptable, making it a favorite for the variable climates found across the United States. They are particularly cold-hardy due to their dense, tight plumage and robust constitution.

However, like all birds with large single combs, roosters may be susceptible to frostbite in extreme winter conditions. Providing a dry, draft-free coop is essential. They are active birds that enjoy foraging but can tolerate confinement well if necessary.

The standard and most iconic variety is the Red. The goal for breeders is a warm, dark mahogany-red with a brilliant sheen. The color should be uniform across the entire body, including the under-plumage.

• Tails: Both sexes should have greenish-black main tail feathers.
• Wings: Some black markings are expected in the primary and secondary flight feathers when the wings are spread, but black should not be visible on the surface of the closed wing.
• Faults: Serious color faults include white patches, smutty (gray) under-color, or a color that is too light (approaching gold or orange).