Black Old English Bantam

The Black Old English Bantam is a striking and elegant variety of the Old English Game bantam, known for its rich, glossy black plumage and lively personality. Here’s a closer look at this captivating breed:

Appearance:

• Feather Color: The Black Old English Bantam has deep, shiny black feathers across its entire body, which gives it a sleek and elegant look. The feathers can sometimes have a slight greenish sheen when caught in the light, making the bird look even more regal. Roosters have a more vibrant and glossy black coloration, while hens have a softer version of this deep black.
• Size: As a bantam breed, the Black Old English Bantam is small and compact. Roosters typically weigh between 22-26 ounces (625-750 grams), and hens are a bit lighter. Their small size makes them perfect for ornamental flocks or smaller backyard spaces.
• Body Type: This bantam has a sleek, upright, and athletic body type, characteristic of the Old English Game bantams. They are graceful and have a proud, alert posture, conveying an energetic and agile nature.
• Comb: The Black Old English Bantam has a small, upright single comb, which is typically red, providing a beautiful contrast against the bird’s dark plumage.

Personality:

• Temperament: The Black Old English Bantam is known for its energetic, independent, and confident personality. These bantams are active, alert, and enjoy exploring their surroundings. Roosters can be territorial and assertive, while hens are generally more docile but still lively. Their bold and curious nature makes them stand out in any flock.
• Hardiness: The Black Old English Bantam is a hardy breed, though it may require extra care in colder climates due to its small size. Like most bantams, they are more vulnerable to cold weather, so providing them with a proper shelter is important.
• Social: While the Black Old English Bantam can be somewhat independent and flighty, they are generally not aggressive. They do well in smaller flocks, where they have enough space to move around and explore freely. Roosters may show some territorial behavior, but they are typically not overly aggressive.

Egg Production:

• Eggs: The Black Old English Bantam is not known for high egg production. They usually lay small white eggs, and their egg-laying capacity is moderate compared to other breeds. This breed is more valued for its beauty, agility, and ornamental qualities than for its egg production.
• Broodiness: Like many bantams, the Black Old English Bantam can occasionally go broody, but they are not usually reliable mothers. These birds are often kept for ornamental purposes and exhibitions, rather than for hatching eggs.

Care Requirements:

• Housing: The Black Old English Bantam requires a secure, well-ventilated coop to protect them from predators. Their energetic nature means they need a larger run or space to explore. It’s essential to give them enough room to roam freely and satisfy their curiosity.
• Diet: A balanced diet, including high-quality poultry feed, fresh water, and occasional treats like mealworms, vegetables, or greens, is necessary to keep them healthy and active.
• Space: Despite their small size, the Black Old English Bantam is very active and needs ample space to roam and explore. A larger run or yard is ideal to allow them to move freely and engage in their natural behaviors.

Popularity:

The Black Old English Bantam is popular among poultry enthusiasts, particularly those who are looking for a striking, active bird for ornamental purposes. Although not raised for egg production, these bantams are cherished for their glossy black plumage and energetic personalities. They are often kept for exhibitions or as a beautiful addition to backyard flocks.

Summary:

The Black Old English Bantam is a sleek and elegant breed, known for its glossy black plumage and energetic, confident personality. While not prolific egg layers, they are highly prized for their beauty and agility. Ideal for ornamental flocks, poultry exhibitions, or anyone seeking an active and stunning bird, the Black Old English Bantam is sure to stand out in any collection.

Black Old English Bantam