Day Old White Cochins Baby Chicks
Hatching February to September.
Cochins are eye-catching and extra sweet.
Production: Most people who love White Cochins love them for their demeanor more than for their production capabilities. They are not known for being great layers, but they do grow to a large size, so can certainly be used as meat birds.
Temperament: Cochins may just be the sweetest breed of chicken. Their owners would say so! They are docile, friendly, don't try to escape, and make good pets.
History: Cochins were imported to the US in the 1840s, and were an immediate sensation. Their unusually large size, combined with their thick, fluffy feathering - which exaggerates their size - made them particularly interesting. Along with Brahmas, they helped to popularize poultry keeping to the point it became known as "hen fever."
It took some time for breeders to develop White Cochins to a standard. The breed was admitted into the American Poultry Association's Standard of Perfection in 1874, and White Cochins were among the first to be accepted. Blacks, Buffs, and Partridges were also listed in 1874.
With their thick and heavy feathers, Cochins do well in areas that experience colder temperatures, but if their feet get wet, their feathered toes are susceptible to frostbite.
It should be noted that Cochins are well-known for their mothering abilities. If you need a bird that will go broody, a White Cochin could be the right choice for you.
Colors: White Cochins are pure white, with bright red combs, wattles, earlobes, and a red patch of skin around the eye.
Conservation Status: Watch
Body Type: Cochins are large, round, fluffy chickens. They also have feathered legs, feet, and toes, and in the case of White Cochins, those feathers are white.
Weights: Cockerel 9 lbs, Pullet 7 lbs
APA Class: Asiatic
Photo Credit: Dreama Bender at The Chicken Coop