Description

Brassy Back Old English Bantam Chicken

Breed History and Origin

The breeders at Cackle Hatchery® specialize in a wide selection of bantam chickens, including the Brassy Back Old English Bantam. This variety traces back to traditional European game fowl and has been refined into a true bantam for exhibition. The Brassy Back variety was recognized by the American Standard of Perfection in 1990 and continues to be a popular choice among poultry exhibitors. Cackle Hatchery® has been developing its own bloodline or strain of pure Brassy Back Old English Game Bantams since 1982, focusing on maintaining proper type, color consistency, and overall quality.

Appearance and Breed Characteristics

The Brassy Back Old English Bantam is known for its rich contrast of black body feathers combined with golden or “brassy” highlights across the back and shoulders. This striking coloration, paired with the breed’s naturally upright posture and tight feathering, gives it a clean and refined appearance. As part of the Game Bantam class, it is bred to exhibit balance, alertness, and athletic form. Mature roosters typically weigh around 24 ounces and hens around 22 ounces, with pullets and cockerels slightly smaller. Their compact size and sharp feather definition make them well-suited for exhibition.

Egg Production and Broodiness

This breed is not developed for egg production and is considered a poor layer. Hens lay 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

The Brassy Back Old English Bantam is active and alert but is often described as very tame with regular handling. Many owners find they can be trained to perch on an arm or shoulder, making them a good option for those looking for an interactive pet. Their small size and low feed requirements make them ideal for backyard setups with limited space. They are generally manageable around children when properly handled, though their active nature should still be considered. A roost height of 3 feet or higher is recommended.

Production Positioning and Exhibition Use

The Brassy Back Old English Bantam is best positioned as an ornamental and exhibition bird. It is not intended for egg or meat production but instead valued for its unique coloration, posture, and adherence to APA standards. This makes it a strong choice for poultry shows and for hobbyists looking for a visually striking bantam.

Breeding Note / Color Note

Maintaining the distinct brassy coloration across the back while preserving a deep black body is key for exhibition-quality birds. Selective breeding should focus on consistent color contrast, feather condition, and proper body type to meet show standards.

Related Resources

Also may like Old English Bantam Surplus Special https://www.cacklehatchery.com/product/old-english-game-bantam-special/

FAQ

Are Brassy Back Old English Bantams friendly?
Yes, they are often very tame with regular handling and can even be trained to perch on your arm or shoulder.

Do Brassy Back Old English Bantams get along with other chickens?
They generally do well with other calm breeds, though their active nature means they should be monitored in mixed flocks.

How many eggs do Brassy Back Old English Bantams lay per year?
They are poor layers and produce a limited number of small eggs annually.

Are Brassy Back Old English Bantams good for small backyards?
Yes, their small size and low feed requirements make them ideal for limited space setups.

Do Brassy Back Old English Bantams go broody?
Yes, hens are known to be setters and can hatch eggs successfully.