Partridge Cochin

First known as Chinese Shanghai Fowl, Cochins first came to America in 1845. They were originally known for their prolific production of brown eggs, but selection was later directed towards the production of fowl and roaster meat. Today, since other breeds are more efficient meat producers, they are primarily kept for their unique appearance. Partridge Cochin chicks are dark brown with white chests and wing tips and light brown legs and toes. They have single combs and feathered yellow legs and feet. Adult females have a deep red head and black hackles with a slight red pencil. The front of neck, breast, back, body, wing bows, wing coverts, lower thighs, shanks and toes are deep reddish bay with black penciling. Adult males have a red head and hack with back feathers that are greenish black with red lacing. The upper back is red while the sickles, coverts, main tail, shanks and body feathers are black. Cochins have a notably large body, with soft and loose feathers that accentuate their size.