Chicken Breed Spotlight: The Pekin Bantam Breed
Chicken keeping has become a popular hobby among suburbanites, and one of the most important decisions to make when starting a flock is choosing the right breeds to add to your chicken coop. But with so many different breeds of chickens, how do you know what to choose?
In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about Pekin Bantam chickens, including their personality, egg production, and lifespan. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or a newcomer to the hobby, this comprehensive guide will help you decide if Pekin Bantams are the right breed for you and your flock.
But if you just want the TLDR version, we have a handy table below with our summary.
| Breed | Pekin Bantam |
| Adult size | Small breed, weighing 0.5-0.9kg |
| Eggs per year | 100-120 |
| Eggs per week | 2-3 |
| Pekin Bantam egg size | Small eggs |
| Pekin Bantam egg colour | cream eggs |
| Lifespan | 5-8 years |
| Suitable for backyard flocks? | Yes |
How big do Pekin Bantam chickens get?
Pekin Bantams are a Small-sized chicken breed, with adult hens weighing around 0.5-0.9kg.
What do Pekin Bantam chickens look like?
They come in a variety of colours, including black, blue, buff, grey, and white. Pekin Bantams are known for their unique feather patterns, compact size, and hardiness, making them ideal for backyard flocks.
The personality and temperament of Pekin Bantam chickens
Pekin Bantams are known for their friendly, docile, and curious nature. They are also great foragers, able to find food and snacks on their own. Pekin Bantams are a great addition to backyard flocks, known for their playful and affectionate nature, making them great pets for families with children. They are a hardy breed, able to adapt to different living conditions and are known for their strong personalities.
How many eggs do Pekin Bantams lay per year?
When it comes to egg laying, Pekin Bantam hens lay around 100-120 eggs per year, which averages out to about 2-3 eggs per week. Pekin Bantams lay Small eggs that are cream in colour. So, if you’re looking for a breed of chicken that will give you a fresh egg almost daily, Pekin Bantams are probably not the chickens you’re looking for.
When do Pekin Bantam hens start laying eggs?
It varies, but generally speaking, Pekin Bantams are ready to lay their eggs by 18-22 weeks of age. And despite what you may have heard, you don’t need Pekin Bantam roosters in order for Pekin Bantam hens to start laying eggs.
How long do Pekin Bantam chickens live?
On average, Pekin Bantam chickens have a lifespan ranging anywhere from 5-8 years. However, it’s worth noting that the lifespan of a chicken can depend on various factors such as diet, living conditions, and overall health. Chickens that are well cared for and kept in a safe, clean environment with a balanced diet can often live longer than those that are neglected or kept in poor conditions.
Conclusion: are Pekin Bantam chickens the next addition to your chicken coop?
Overall, Pekin Bantam chickens make a wonderful addition to any flock’s coop and are a great option for beginner backyard chicken keepers. With the right care and attention, Pekin Bantams will provide you with many years of enjoyment.
