Rosecomb Bantam

The Rosecomb Bantam is a masterpiece of symmetry and style. Its most defining feature is the rose comb, which is finely pebbled, sets firmly on the head, and terminates in a long, straight spike. Complementing the comb are the large, circular, white earlobes, which must be smooth, thick, and possess an enamel-like luster.

• Body Shape: Short, broad, and compact with a well-rounded breast and prominent shoulders.
• Carriage: Proud and upright, often standing on its toes when active.
• Wings: Carried low, revealing the bird's powerful thighs.
• Weight: Roosters weigh approximately 21-24 oz (600-675g), while hens weigh 18-19 oz (500-550g).

As a true bantam focused heavily on ornamental traits, the Rosecomb is a modest layer. Owners can expect roughly 80 to 100 eggs per year.

• Egg Color: Pure white shells.
• Egg Size: Very small, weighing at least 0.88 oz (25g).
• Broodiness: Hens are generally not inclined to sit on eggs and are often considered indifferent mothers, breeders frequently use foster hens or incubators to raise chicks.

While both sexes exhibit the breed's signature dwarf-like compactness, the rooster is significantly more ornate. The rooster features full, wide sickles that form a beautiful circular curve. In Dutch/Belgian standards, this is often referred to as the cirkelslag.

The hen is even smaller and more dainty than the rooster. Her tail carriage is slightly more horizontal, and her rose comb is smaller but should still be well-formed and follow the line of the head. In varieties like the Black Rosecomb, the rooster shows a brilliant green sheen in his plumage that is less pronounced in the female.

The Rosecomb Bantam is a moderately delicate breed. Because of their large combs and wattles, they are susceptible to frostbite in extreme cold. They require dry, draft-free housing to maintain their health and the condition of their elaborate plumage.

In the winter months, they benefit from slightly more attention to their diet and environment to prevent them from becoming too fat, which can impact their activity levels and fertility.

The Black variety is the most popular and refined, requiring a brilliant beetle-green sheen and dark eyes. However, the breed exists in many stunning patterns:

• White: Pure white without any yellowing.
• Cuckoo: Regular grey and white barring.
• Porcelain: A complex tricolor pattern of beige-orange with black and white spots.
• Partridge: Available in Gold and Silver variants.
• Columbia: White body with black markings in the neck, tail, and wings.