Description
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.
Availability
Available Low Availability Unavailable
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etayl14 –
Spangled Old English Game bantam from Cackle Hatchery seem to be intelligent and healthy birds. I had 100% success raising a group of chicks from August 1st. Even as chicks they seemed to want to roost high up in trees. They are very active and like to flap and fly around and one will jump on your shoulder. Mostly red feathers with some white feather tips and one bird almost appears black. She is a beauty!
kimrosemarie72 –
Updating my review. They resent me my order at no charge and all the chicks arrived in perfect health!
kimrosemarie72 –
I bought 17 chicks 5 of which were this breed. The ONLY chicks that made it were 2 of these.One is real fire cracker and the other is a bit smaller but at least they are alive. I emailed multiple times but no response from the hatchery. I just really want the chicks I paid for 🙁
Cackle Hatchery (store manager) –
I am very sorry that we had failed communications with the email system. I am pleased that we were finally able to make contact and get your reshipment scheduled. Please keep us updated on the new arrivals.
kimrosemarie72 –
First time ordering thru them.My chicks arrived dead and the ones that were still alive were in a bad way and died within hours. After numerous emails and no answer I’m putting my ordeal as a review but of course they have to allow it first.
Cackle Hatchery (store manager) –
I am very sorry that we had failed communications with the email system. I am pleased that we were finally able to make contact and get your reshipment scheduled. Please keep us updated on the new arrivals.
hramos0406 –
I order 5 spangled old english game bantam but 4 arrived die
Cackle Hatchery (store manager) –
Oh no so sorry. I see we are reshipping you 5 more on July 6th to make up for your loss.
Freddy –
Spangles and Brassy Backs
3 of the Spangles has showed two times and placed ever time!!!!Great Birds!!!!!!!
JR –
Great breed
We enjoy these tiny quirky birds, they are a fun interactive breed.
Hippie Hop –
Man’s new best friend
Ordered 5.. One was in rough shape and didn’t make it thru the night. The other 4 all turned out to be male. Only one of them is slightly skittish, but the others are super friendly. My golden pupil is glued to me at all times! Any chance he gets to land on my head and shoulders, he takes! Befriend the rooster and you have the whole flock at your heels
Joseph January 2016 –
Thank You
I want to thank you for my bantam old english chickens. I have never had chicks that love me so much. I treat them as though they are my children. They like to be held and kissed. I really love them. Thanks again. If I need more I will order from you folks again.
David New Mexico June 2010 –
Cackle Hatchery Personnel
My order arrived at 3:00 am on friday June 4th and the post office called me promptly. I picked up my chicks at 3:30 am and they were under the heat lamp eating and drinking at 4:00 am June 4th. There were no dead chicks, and they all look very healthy and energetic at this point in time. I really like your color chickens pictures on your website and I believe that your website pictures were my initial motivation to try your company over other hatcheries. Cackle Hatchery is further away from my home distance wise than all the other hatcheries yet cackle has delivered 120% live and healthy birds! I am very happy about my new experience with Cackle Hatchery and will be talking to my friends about it. Wishing you a great year and rising prosperity! Kindest regards