Spangled Old English Game Bantam
Breed Facts
- Poultry Show Class: Game Bantams (All Colors)
- Weights – Hen ——-22 oz Rooster—-24 oz
Pullet——20 oz Cockerel—22 oz - Purpose and Type – Ornamental; Exhibition
- Egg Shell Color – Cream or Tinted Bantam Sized Egg
- Egg Production – Poor
- Egg Size: Small
- Temperament: Active
- Fertility Percentage: 40-55%
- Broody: Setters
- Mating Ratio: 9 Females to 1 Male
- Roost Height: 3+ feet
- Country of Origin – Europe
- APA: Yes, Recognized by the Standard of Perfection in 1925
- TLC: No
- Breeder Farm Source: Cackle Hatchery® Poultry Breeding Farm has been developing our bloodline or strain of pure Spamgled Old English Game Bantam since 1982.
Spangled Old English Bantam Chicken
Breed History and Origin
The Spangled Old English Bantam is a miniature version of the Standard Old English Game chicken and has long been a popular choice in exhibition poultry. Originating from traditional European game fowl, this variety was refined into a true bantam for show purposes and was recognized by the American Standard of Perfection in 1925. Its long-standing presence in poultry shows reflects its consistency in both appearance and type. Cackle Hatchery® has been developing its own bloodline or strain of pure Spangled Old English Game Bantams since 1982, focusing on maintaining proper structure and color pattern.
Appearance and Breed Characteristics
The Spangled Old English Bantam is known for its distinctive multi-colored feather pattern, typically featuring rich base colors accented with lighter “spangles” or tips that create a speckled, eye-catching effect. This pattern gives the bird a unique look compared to more uniform-colored varieties. Like other Old English Game Bantams, it has a proud, upright posture with tight feathering and a well-balanced, athletic frame. Mature roosters typically weigh around 24 ounces and hens around 22 ounces, with pullets and cockerels slightly smaller. As part of the Game Bantam (All Colors) class, it is bred for symmetry, clarity of pattern, and overall presentation.
Egg Production and Broodiness
The Spangled Old English Bantam is not bred for egg production and is considered a poor layer. Hens produce small cream or tinted bantam-sized eggs in limited quantities. However, they are known to be setters, meaning hens will go broody and can hatch eggs successfully. Fertility generally ranges from 40–55%, with a recommended mating ratio of approximately nine females to one male.
Temperament and Backyard Suitability
This breed is active and alert but can be manageable and make good pets with regular handling. Their small size makes them suitable for backyard flocks, especially where space is limited. While they are more energetic than some other bantam breeds, they can do well with proper care and handling, even around families. A roost height of 3 feet or higher is recommended to suit their natural behavior.
Production Positioning and Exhibition Use
The Spangled Old English Bantam is best positioned as an ornamental and exhibition breed. It is not intended for egg or meat production but is valued for its unique feather pattern, posture, and adherence to APA standards. This makes it a strong choice for poultry shows and for hobbyists looking for a visually distinctive bantam.
Breeding Note / Color Note
Maintaining a clear and consistent spangled pattern is essential for exhibition-quality birds. Selective breeding should focus on even distribution of spangling, strong contrast, and proper feather condition, along with correct body type.
Related Resources
Many people who like this breed of chicken also like the standard version of the breed, the Spangled Old English Game Fowl Chicken https://www.cacklehatchery.com/product/spangled-old-english-standard/
Also may like Old English Bantam Surplus Special https://www.cacklehatchery.com/product/old-english-game-bantam-special/
FAQ
What does “spangled” mean in chickens?
It refers to a feather pattern where each feather has a contrasting tip, creating a speckled or spotted appearance.
Are Spangled Old English Bantams good for beginners?
Yes, they can be suitable for beginners, especially those looking for a small ornamental breed.
Do Spangled Old English Bantams lay many eggs?
No, they are poor layers and are not kept for egg production.
Are Spangled Old English Bantams good pets?
Yes, with regular handling they can become manageable and make good backyard pets.
Are Spangled Old English Bantams good for showing?
Yes, they are a recognized APA variety and are highly valued for their unique feather pattern and presentation.
Order from Cackle Hatchery
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