Bantam Rocks vs. Bantam Cochins Please fill me in

[amyquilt]

I'm interested in getting either bantam rocks or bantam cochins for showing.

I'm wondering peoples opinion between the two breeds. I'm not one for feathered feet, but I know cochins are big in the show ring.

Any info/comments are appreciated!

 

[mikarod]

They may be big in the show ring...which means there is alot more competition with them. You have to keep them in condition which means very little time in the sun, can't be outside at all during winter because of the freezing issue and the feathers on their feet. Unless you plan on keeping them off of the ground anyway? From what I hear they go broody ALL the time...so are difficult to get into show form because of their broody cycles.

I have a barred rock bantam (had SOME earlier this year...) and they were the easiest things to get ready. A little wash down, no worrying about their legs...because anything just wiped off of their legs. She was the only one at the show in the open division and took first for breed and variety. But then again...with no competition that's not saying much.

I'll admit, bantam cochins are ADORABLE..but the upkeep is so much harder on them than the bantam barred rocks.

 

[amyquilt]

Quote:
Your comments are exactly what I've been thinking.

They will be kept indoors most of the time, with some outside time daily, as our city lot ins't the minimum required acreage for poultry...so they will be indoor pet/show birds.

 

[Kanchii]

With cochins you have to worry about their feet feathers and having them not go broody. They need to be kept inside and on shavings 24/7 pretty much. And if you have a hen decide to go broody right before a show bam there goes all her belly feathers. There's also usually a lot more competition for them, you're looking at having to spend over $100 for a pair if you want one you have a good chance of doing well with. Plus shipping.

Bantam rocks are AMAZING. They are my favorite breed (and I've bred and shown both bantam cochins and bantam rocks). They're easy, hearty, and don't really need anything special. Mine keep themselves clean. I literally just give the ma wipe down with a damp rag and then scrub their feet with a tooth brush before a show, put some vasaline on their combs and bam, perfection. They're spunky and fun and full of personality. They also lay a lot of eggs and don't go broody on them!

 

[amyquilt]

Thanks for the info on these!!!

We've settled definitely on Rocks....now to decide color(s) lol.

 

[mikarod]

Barred Rocks are ALWAYS a favorite of mine...hehehe!

Columbian, Blue, Black, whites...oh you're going to have SUCH fun!!!

I'm getting some standard barred rocks next weekend. Update us with photos!

OOhh...you could ALWAYS get a show quality cochin hen to set on eggs......

 

[L&Schickens]

I have had both. I currently only have the Bantam Barred Rocks, due to the amount of mud I have here in WA. Clean legged birds are easier to deal with around here.

My BBR's are very sweet and easy to handle. I really like them. I will be taking 3 of them to a show next weekend. I will let you know how they do!!

 

[amyquilt]

Quote:
Oh I would do that in a heartbeat, but I have very limited space for chickens right now, so I have to "pick and choose" very carefully. ;-)