Which Breed of Bantam is the best egg layer?

[mcdaid36]

I am looking to increase my Bantam flock and am wondering which breed would be best for egg laying? The ones we have now are mainly ornamentals. Thanks!

 

[crait]

Bantams really aren't the ones you should be looking at for egg laying. Their eggs are small.

Are you asking this because you don't want to mix bigger birds with banties?

 

[Becky_H]

The eggs I get from my bantam cochins are decent sized -- 2/3 regular egg size -- but they mature late. Maybe bantam orps? I really don't know.

 

[mcdaid36]

I know Bantams aren't primarily used for egg laying - I also have a standard size egg laying flock. I just thought if I was going to order some bantams anyway, I might as well get something out of it! I did see a website that told which bantams were better egg layers, but I can't remember where it was. Thanks for any ideas!

 

[hebintn]

We have a small flock, 8 mixed bantams and 6 RR pullets. The only one laying is a white sultan. She cranks out about 5-6 eggs/week. They are medium sized, but are just right to cover half an english muffin - my breakfast 5-6 days a week.

We don't keep chickens for meat - just eggs and enjoyment, and I like the bantams for the variety and personalies. When the RRs are gone I'll probably just stick with the banties.

 

[mcdaid36]

That's good to hear! Out of the 6 Banties we already have, 2 are Sultans. They are only 9 weeks old, so no eggs yet, but they are so much fun to look at! We really like them.

 

[Chickenaddict]

I have nothing but bantams and out of all of them i have to say my best layers are my cochins and my light brahma. Their eggs are not that small maybe when they first start laying but after they have been laying a few months they are pretty decent sized eggs, I still have to make 2 instead of one but they are packed full of flava

 

[Becky_H]

That's my cochin's first egg. Definitely worth the 'effort' so to speak. Not huge, but not worthless, if you follow.

 

[EweSheep]

My Faverolles and EE and Amercuana bantams were my best layers and they do lay well in eight to nine months out of the year. I love the size of the eggs and perfect for those who want more yolk (the ratio of yolk is much higher than the LF eggs).

To me, Cochins are nice but they were more suited for broodies and they do not lay well most of the year.