Barred Old English Game Bantam

Barred Old English Game Bantam Chicken

At Chicken Coop Company, we offer several varieties of Old English Bantams, the compact, miniature version of the Standard Old English Game chicken. One standout choice is the Barred Old English Game Bantam, known for its striking black and white spotted plumage. These bantams are low-maintenance, requiring little space and feed, making them ideal pets for families and hobbyists.

With their generally calm nature, some Barred Old English Game Bantams can even become so friendly they’ll sit comfortably on your arm. Start your journey with these charming bantams by ordering baby chicks today, and don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions!

Appearance:

• Feather Color: The most distinguishing feature of the Barred Old English Game Bantam is its unique "barred" feather pattern. The feathers typically alternate between light and dark stripes, creating a checkered or striped appearance. The primary colors in this variety are often black, white, and gray, with dark black bars crossing over lighter feathers. This gives the bird a stunning, almost sparkling, appearance, especially when the light hits their plumage.
  
  

• Body Type: The Barred Old English Game Bantam has a slim, athletic build that reflects its game heritage. The breed has a compact yet muscular body with a slightly upright posture. While they are small in size compared to standard chickens, they are very sturdy and built for agility.
  
  

• Tail: The tail of this bantam is upright and carried high, a characteristic of all Old English Game Bantams. The tail feathers are long and sweeping, adding to the bird's graceful and striking appearance.
  
  

• Comb and Wattles: They have a small, single comb, which is upright and proportionate to their size. The wattles are small but vibrant red, and they complement the bird’s color scheme.
  
  

• Legs and Toes: The legs of the Barred Old English Game Bantam are clean and yellow in color. They typically have three toes on each foot, which is typical for many bantam breeds.
  
  

Temperament:

• Active and Energetic: The Barred Old English Game Bantam is a highly energetic and active breed. They are quick, alert, and enjoy foraging and exploring their environment. These bantams are known for their agility and speed, which makes them excellent for free-range environments.
  
  

• Independent and Spirited: Like most game breeds, the Barred Old English Game Bantam tends to be more independent and spirited. They can be a bit flighty, which means they are not as easily handled as more docile breeds. However, with regular interaction, they can become more accustomed to human presence.
  
  

• Good for Free-Range: These bantams thrive in free-range environments where they can roam, scratch, and forage for food. Their active nature makes them ideal for a larger space, and they can be a great addition to a free-range flock. However, because of their flightiness, they should be kept in a secure area to prevent them from flying away.
  
  

• Dominant Behavior: Barred Old English Game Bantams can sometimes display dominance over other chickens, especially in mixed-flock settings. They may assert themselves, so it’s important to monitor interactions with other breeds to ensure a peaceful environment.
  
  

Egg Laying:

• Moderate Egg Production: Like most bantam breeds, the Barred Old English Game Bantam is not known for prolific egg production. They typically lay small white eggs, about 2-3 eggs per week. While they don't produce eggs in large quantities, the eggs are of good quality and can be enjoyed for their taste and freshness.
  
  

• Egg Size and Quality: The eggs are small but flavorful, and their shells are smooth. The eggs are not typically used in large-scale egg production but are appreciated by those who keep bantams for ornamental or pet purposes.
  
  

Health and Care:

• Hardy: Despite their small size, the Barred Old English Game Bantam is quite hardy and can withstand a variety of climates. However, like all small chickens, they may require additional protection in extreme cold or heat due to their size and single comb. In very cold climates, frostbite on their comb and wattles can be a concern.
  
  

• Low Maintenance: These bantams are relatively low-maintenance. They don’t require special grooming, but regular checks for parasites like mites or lice should be conducted. Their small size means they are easier to handle than larger chickens, although they do tend to be more active and independent.
  
  

• Flightiness: As an active and agile breed, the Barred Old English Game Bantam is capable of short flights. If you want to keep them contained, it's important to ensure they are in a secure enclosure with a high fence, as they may fly over a low barrier.
  
  

Show and Ornamental Qualities:

• Poultry Shows: The Barred Old English Game Bantam is a popular breed in poultry shows due to its striking appearance and graceful movement. The barred feather pattern is a showstopper, and these bantams are often entered in competitions for their beauty and agility.
  
  

• Ornamental Value: Besides their presence in shows, the Barred Old English Game Bantam is often kept for ornamental purposes. Their bold color pattern and energetic personality make them a prized breed among poultry enthusiasts, adding a distinct touch to any backyard flock.
  
  
  

What is a Barred Old English Game Bantam?
A miniature, low-maintenance bantam chicken with black and white spotted coloring.

Are Barred Old English Game Bantams friendly?
Yes, they are generally calm and can become very tame.

Do Barred Old English Game Bantams require a lot of space?
No, they require minimal space, making them ideal for smaller areas.

How much feed do Barred Old English Game Bantams need?
They require little feed compared to larger chickens.

Where can I buy Barred Old English Game Bantam chicks?
Available at Chicken Coop Company—order now for fast delivery!

Barred Old English Game Bantam Facts