Cochins
Calm, Friendly, Quiet
Recognized Color Varieties
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Buff
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Partridge
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Black
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White
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Silver Laced
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Golden Laced
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Blue
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Brown
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Barred
Breed Traits
Cochins are the teddy bears of the chicken world, with sensationally large eyes and abundant feathering — especially on their legs and feet — that makes their already round bodies look even bigger. They’re as cuddly as they appear, with a calm, friendly personality and a love for human interaction. Easy to handle and happy to hang out in the coop, Cochins don’t need much space and prefer being protected and well-fed over ranging far on their own. Their mellow nature makes them a perfect fit for backyard flocks and families with children.
Because Cochins have been bred heavily for feather quality and show appearance, their egg production is modest — about 150–180 large light brown eggs per year. They also tend to go broody often, but that’s part of their charm: they’re excellent at hatching and raising chicks and make devoted mothers. Cold-hardy, adaptable, and happy in confinement, Cochins are available in a wide range of beautiful colors, including Buff, White, Black, Blue, Golden Laced, Silver Laced, and Partridge, as well as assorted mixes for variety. Whether you’re drawn to them for their looks, personality, or mothering skills, Cochins bring both beauty and warmth to any flock.
Breed History
Cochins were originally from the Shanghai province of China but were presented to Queen Victoria in England in the late 1800’s. The queen coveted the beautiful feathering of the Cochin and her favoritism for them sparked an infatuation with them worldwide. They became bred specifically for their brilliant feathering, especially their heavily feathered shanks; and can now be found in nearly every color variety in the chicken world.
Quick Facts
Peak Egg Production
Decent: Approx 100-120
Egg Size
Medium
Egg Color
Light Brown
Tolerant of Confinement
Yes
Cold Hardy
Yes
Heat Tolerant
No
Broody
Yes
American Poultry Association
Asiatic
