Shamo Bantam

The Shamo Bantam is defined by its upright, almost vertical posture. It features a broad, deep body with very prominent shoulders that stand out and are placed high. Its musculature is exceptionally well-developed, giving the bird a hard, powerful feel when handled. The feathering is very short, narrow, and hard, often leaving the red skin visible over the breastbone (keel) and wing joints.

Head and Expression

• Head: Medium-length but broad, featuring a strong 'raptor-like' expression due to heavy, overhanging eyebrows.
• Comb: A small, three-row pea comb (erwtenkam) set firmly on the head.
• Eyes: Large and deep-set, with colors ranging from pearl white to orange-yellow.
• Beak: Short, very strong, and prominently curved.

The neck is notably long and slightly curved, described in some standards as a 'bull neck' (stierennek) due to the thick, protective appearance of the upper neck feathers.

As a game breed focused on form and temperament, the Shamo Bantam is not a prolific egg layer. Owners can expect approximately 60-80 eggs per year. The eggs are typically small and brownish or tinted in color, weighing roughly 1.2 oz (35g).

Despite the low quantity, the hens are known to be highly protective and dedicated mothers. If allowed to go broody, they are capable of hatching and raising chicks with great intensity, though their muscular build and hard feathers require a careful nesting environment to prevent egg breakage.

While both sexes share the characteristic verticality, there are distinct differences between them:

• Rooster: Weighs between 3.5-3.7 lbs (1600-1700g). He stands significantly taller and exhibits a more aggressive, proud vertical line where the neck, breast, and thighs almost align. His plumage is more lustrous, especially in the tail, which is carried slightly below the horizontal.
• Hen: Weighs between 2.6-2.9 lbs (1200-1300g). She has a slightly less vertical posture than the rooster and a well-developed abdomen (legbuik). Her tail is often carried a bit higher, and her comb and wattles are much smaller, often purplish-red in certain varieties.

The Shamo Bantam is moderately hardy, but its unique feathering presents challenges. Because the plumage is so short and tight, it provides very little insulation compared to fluffier breeds. Consequently, they are sensitive to extreme cold and dampness. During winter months in northern climates, they require a draft-free, dry coop and may need supplemental heat in sub-zero temperatures.

They thrive best in warm, dry environments where they can exercise and maintain their muscle tone. Because of their active nature, they should not be kept in cramped quarters, even though they are bantams.

According to European standards, the Shamo Bantam is recognized in several color patterns, though the focus remains primarily on the bird's type and muscle quality rather than intricate plumage markings.

• Wheat: The most common variety, featuring light orange-red to dark red tones on the rooster and a creamy-wheat color on the hen.
• Black: Pure, deep black with a beetle-green sheen.
• White: Pure white throughout, often with slightly yellowish skin.
• Blue: An even, clear slate-blue.
• Black-Red: Similar to the wild-type color but with the intense Shamo coloring.