What is a Cochin Chicken? A Comprehensive Guide to This Unique Breed

Cochin chickens also known as Cochin China chickens, are a very distinctive and popular breed known for their fluffy plumage and docile personalities. If you are considering adding Cochins to your flock here is everything you need to know about these unique chickens.

History of the Cochin Chicken Breed

• Cochins originated in China and were brought to the West in the 1800s.
• They caused a major “hen fever” craze in Victorian England and America when they were first exhibited.
• Queen Victoria received Cochins as a gift which increased their popularity.
• Cochins were first admitted into the American Poultry Association’s Standard of Perfection in 1874.

What Do Cochins Look Like?

The most noticeable thing about Cochins is their fluffy fur, which makes them look bigger than they are. Here are some other important facts about the breed’s body:

• Size: Cochins are considered a lightweight breed but their plentiful plumage can make them appear quite large. Roosters weigh around 11 lbs and hens around 8.5 lbs.

• Feathering: Cochins are covered in an abundance of soft, fluffy feathers down to their feet and toes. Even their legs and feet are heavily feathered. This gives them a rounded, heart-shaped appearance.

• Comb: Single combs that are small in hens and medium sized in roosters.

• Wattles Small, well-rounded wattles in hens and long wattles in roosters

• Plumage: Recognized color varieties include buff, partridge, white, black, silver laced, golden laced, blue, brown, and barred. All colors feature the extra fluffy plumage.

Temperament of Cochin Chickens

One of the best things about Cochin chickens is that they are calm and friendly. They are fun to be around because of the following:

• Extremely docile, gentle nature – even the roosters rarely become aggressive.
• Easily handled and relaxed around people – they make great pets.
• Tolerant of confinement if required.
• Get along well with other passive chicken breeds.
• Cochins are also known to be particularly good with children.

Because they are friendly, they are a great addition to flocks in both cities and the country. They will quickly become friendly with the people who take care of them.

Egg Laying and Broodiness

Even though they don’t lay a lot of eggs, Cochins can make a good number of big brown eggs if they aren’t let to go broody. On average, hens will lay 3-4 eggs per week.

However, Cochins are prone to broodiness and will stop laying to incubate a clutch. The broody instinct is especially strong in this breed. Benefits include:

• Excellent broody hens that will readily go broody multiple times per year.
• Devoted setters and mothers.
• Known to be reliable incubators for duck and turkey eggs in addition to chicken eggs.
• Roosters may even help brood and protect chicks.

So if you are looking to breed your flock or have poults or ducklings, a Cochin hen is a great choice for a surrogate mother!

Other Care Considerations

While generally robust and cold hardy, there are a few special considerations for keeping Cochins healthy and happy:

• Cold Tolerance: The abundant plumage makes them well suited for colder climates.

• Heat Tolerance: Extra feathers can cause heat intolerance in warmer months. Provide shade and cooling areas.

• Feathered Feet: Take care in muddy conditions to prevent frozen toes. Check feet regularly for frostbites.

• Predator Protection: Cannot fly to escape so take precautions against predators.

• Low Roosts: Limit roosts to 2 feet or less since Cochins cannot fly.

• Diet: Monitor weight and do not overfeed – Cochins are prone to obesity.

With proper care, Cochins are generally hardy and not prone to many health issues seen in other breeds. Their average life expectancy is 6-8 years.

Is a Cochin Chicken Right For You?

If you are looking for a friendly backyard chicken with a bit of flair, the Cochin is a great choice. Their appearance and demeanor make them great exhibition birds as well as pets and egg layers. A few key advantages of the breed include:

• Docile Personality: Extremely friendly with people of all ages and other passive livestock.

• Dual Purpose: Provide both eggs and meat (though moderate in both). Excellent capons.

• Cold Hardy: Thrive in cold climates thanks to heavy plumage.

• Broodiness: Persistent setters and mothers, good for natural incubation.

• Ornamental: Unique “fluffy butt” appearance makes them stand out.

Hopefully this overview has helped explain what sets the Cochin chicken apart from other breeds! Let us know if you have any other questions about these Fabulous Fluffballs.