Wheaten Old English Game Bantam

Wheaten Old English Game Bantam Chicken

At Chicken Coop Company, we proudly offer a variety of chickens recognized by the American Standard of Perfection, including the Wheaten Old English Bantam. This popular miniature breed is known for its easy-to-tame nature and success at poultry shows, making it a favorite among hobbyists and families alike.

With striking brown and black feathers, the Wheaten Old English Bantam requires minimal space and feed, thriving in both small backyard setups and show environments. Order your Wheaten Old English Bantam chicks today, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any assistance!

Appearance:

• Feather Color: The defining feature of the Wheaten Old English Game Bantam is its warm, wheaten-colored plumage. The body is typically a soft golden or pale reddish-brown, with lighter tips on the feathers. The rich, warm hue creates an elegant, almost glowing appearance, which is particularly striking when the light catches the feathers. The males (roosters) tend to have more vibrant and darker colors, while females (hens) are generally lighter and more subdued in tone, but still maintain the overall wheaten look.
  
  

• Body Type: As with all Old English Game Bantams, the Wheaten variety has a slim, athletic build. These bantams are compact yet muscular, reflecting their game bird heritage. Their small size and strong, agile frame make them perfect for quick movements and exploration.
  
  

• Tail: The Wheaten Old English Game Bantam has an upright, high-set tail, which is one of the breed’s most distinctive features. The tail feathers are long and sweeping, contributing to the bird’s graceful and regal appearance. The contrast between the soft wheaten body and the darker tail feathers makes the bird even more eye-catching.
  
  

• Comb and Wattles: Like other Old English Game Bantams, the Wheaten variety has a small, single comb that is upright and bright red. The comb is proportionate to the size of the bird, and the wattles are also small but red, enhancing the bird’s striking look.
  
  

• Legs and Toes: The legs are clean and yellow, adding a bright contrast to the bird's plumage. They typically have three toes on each foot, consistent with many bantam breeds. The legs are short, complementing the bird’s small, compact frame.

Temperament:

• Active and Spirited: The Wheaten Old English Game Bantam is known for its high energy and agility. These bantams are lively and energetic, constantly moving and exploring their environment. They are very active and love to forage, scratch, and explore their surroundings, making them ideal for free-range environments.

• Independent and Courageous: True to the game bird lineage, the Wheaten Old English Game Bantam is independent and courageous. They are not overly docile and often exhibit a bold, confident nature. These bantams are courageous and unafraid, often asserting themselves within the flock.
  
  

• Good for Free-Range: These bantams are well-suited for free-range environments where they can move freely and express their natural behaviors. They are excellent foragers and enjoy exploring large spaces. However, because they are capable of short flights, it’s important to ensure that the fence or pen is high enough to prevent them from escaping.
  
  

• Dominant Behavior: Wheaten Old English Game Bantams can sometimes display dominant behavior, particularly with other chickens in a flock. They tend to be territorial and may challenge other chickens for dominance. They are generally best suited to flocks with other active or confident breeds, as they may try to dominate more passive chickens.
  
  

Egg Laying:

• Moderate Egg Production: Like other Old English Game Bantams, the Wheaten variety is not a prolific egg layer. They typically lay small white eggs, usually around 2-3 eggs per week. While egg production is lower compared to other breeds, the eggs are of excellent quality and flavor.
  
  

• Egg Size and Quality: The eggs are small, but they are prized for their richness and freshness. They are perfect for small households or as a treat for poultry enthusiasts.
  
  

Health and Care:

• Hardy: The Wheaten Old English Game Bantam is generally a hardy and resilient bird. They can adapt to various climates, though, like all bantams, they may be more susceptible to cold temperatures due to their small size and single comb. In cold climates, they may need additional shelter to protect them from frostbite, especially around their combs and wattles.
  
  

• Low Maintenance: These bantams are low-maintenance in terms of grooming. Their smooth feathers don’t require much upkeep, but they should be checked regularly for parasites like mites or lice. A clean and dry living space is important for their health and well-being.
  
  

• Flight Risk: Like many bantam breeds, the Wheaten Old English Game Bantam is capable of short flights. This means they need a secure, high fence to keep them from escaping the yard or pen. Their agility makes them good climbers, so a higher fence is important for containing them.

What is a Wheaten Old English Bantam?
A miniature chicken with brown and black feathers, known for its tameness and show quality.

Is the Wheaten Old English Bantam recognized by poultry standards?
Yes, it’s recognized by the American Standard of Perfection.

Does the Wheaten Old English Bantam need much space?
No, it thrives in minimal space, making it perfect for smaller setups.

Are Wheaten Old English Bantams easy to tame?
Yes, they are very easy to tame and friendly with people.

Where can I purchase Wheaten Old English Bantam chicks?
Available at Chicken Coop Company—order now for quick delivery!

Wheaten Old English Game Bantam Facts