One of the most memorable chicken breeds to see running through a garden is the “chicken in pants.” It will make you laugh every time. The Brahma Chicken is truly amazing in both size and appearance. This gentle giant is sure to win your heart from the very first time you meet them.
My initial meeting with a Blue Partridge Brahma Chicken, while purchasing other chicks, was serendipitous. From the corner of my eye, I spied what seemed like a diminutive “running man” beneath the trees. Upon closer inspection, it became clear it was a chicken, displaying a human-like gait that was both amusing and endearing. Observing this Brahma rooster approach with a jolly, spirited sprint, then halting merely 10 feet away, was a sight to behold. His observation turned into a charming dance, drawing nearer inch by inch, ultimately revealing his quest for treats.
My affection for this Brahma rooster was instantaneous—his grace, inquisitiveness, and humorous antics completely captivated me. I soon discovered that such characteristics are common among Brahma roosters, at least based on my experiences. The opportunity to bring him home arose when the breeder mentioned having an excess of Brahma roosters. In exchange for the chicks I was already purchasing, I gladly welcomed him into my life.
Because he is so gentle, I chose to hold him on my lap for the short trip home, even though I hadn’t planned to and only had one crate with me. This is usually not a good idea for safety reasons. Thankfully, the drive was uneventful, with my new companion remaining tranquil throughout. Upon arrival, he amazed me further by staying by my side as we introduced him to his new surroundings, making his presence known yet staying close.
The Brahma and Cochin breeds were the first to capture my heart as I ventured into poultry keeping. Despite my affinity for various poultry breeds, I found Brahma roosters to be exceptionally sociable, consistently bringing joy and laughter to our family. His antics, complete with his distinctive “pants” and courtship dance, were always a family favorite.
The Brahma Chicken is a fascinating breed that originated in the mid-19th century in the United States. Its roots can be traced back to the Brahmaputra region of India, where it was known as the “Gray Chittagong.” This large chicken breed quickly caught the attention of poultry enthusiasts and breeders due to its impressive size, strength, and ability to thrive in different climates.
The credit for introducing the first Brahma Chicken to the United States goes to a man named George Burnham. While traveling as a merchant in the mid-19th century, Burnham discovered the Gray Chittagong chickens in the port city of Chittagong, which is now in present-day Bangladesh. Captivated by their unique characteristics, Burnham saw the potential of these chickens and decided to import a pair of them back to Boston, Massachusetts, where he lived.
Once in the United States, the Brahma chicken quickly gained popularity among poultry enthusiasts and breeders. Their impressive size and other desirable traits led to the development and establishment of the Brahma Chicken breed in the country. George Burnhams fortunate encounter with the Gray Chittagong chickens played a crucial role in introducing this admired breed to the United States, sparking interest and enthusiasm among chicken enthusiasts.
Today, the Brahma Chicken remains one of the largest and most admired chicken breeds in the United States, thanks to Burnhams initiative and the unique qualities of this remarkable breed.
This breed of chicken is very popular among people who keep chickens in their yards because they are gentle, lay great eggs, and are huge. It’s important to know how big these gentle giants get, and this article will tell you everything you need to know.
A Brief History of Brahmas
Brahmas have a truly fascinating history. They came from large birds brought to the US from China in the middle of the 1800s. They were first called “Shanghai” chickens, but over time they were bred to become the beautiful Brahmas we know and love today. Their history explains why they’ve been given royal names over the years, such as “King of Chickens.”
Average Size of a Full Grown Brahma
Brahmas are colossal compared to standard backyard chicken breeds. It can grow to be up to 30 inches tall and weigh between 12 and 18 pounds. Sheep are a little smaller than hens. They stand about 26 inches tall and weigh 9 to 12 pounds.
Think about this: a normal Leghorn chicken is only 5 to 7 pounds, which is less than half the size of a Brahma!
How Long Does it Take Brahmas to Reach Full Size?
Due to their large size, Brahmas take longer to fully mature compared to other backyard chickens
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Hens are normally full grown around 2 years of age.
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Roosters can take up to 3 years to finish growing.
Medium sized chicken breeds reach their adult size much quicker – as early as 6 months to 1 year The extended growth timeline of the Brahma is likely due to their genetics,
Brahma Chicken Size Compared to Other Breeds
Here’s a helpful size comparison between Brahmas and other popular backyard chicken breeds:
| Chicken Breed | Average Weight |
|---|---|
| Brahma | 12-18 lbs |
| Orpington | 7-10 lbs |
| Australorp | 6-8 lbs |
| Plymouth Rock | 7-9 lbs |
| Leghorn | 5-7 lbs |
As you can see, Brahmas far surpass the others in terms of their sheer size and mass. Truly the King of Chickens!
Amount of Space Brahmas Need
To comfortably house these big birds, give each Brahma:
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5-6 square feet of coop space. This is more than average chickens require.
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10-15 square feet of outdoor run space to roam.
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8-10 inch perches. Lower these for easy access since Brahmas are heavy.
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14 x 14 inch nesting boxes. Provide multiple, as they are prolific layers.
Having adequate room to move is essential for Brahmas to prevent issues like feather pecking. Their enclosure must accommodate their substantial size.
Brahma Egg Size
For their massive stature, Brahmas lay a good number of eggs – around 3 per week or 150 yearly. Their large brown eggs weigh approximately:
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50-60 grams on average
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Equivalent to a large to extra large egg
The eggs have delicious flavor with abundant yolks.
Size of Brahma Chicks & Growth Rate
Brahma chicks are adorably fluffy! Here are the average weights as they mature:
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Day old chicks – around 1.5 oz
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10 weeks old – 1.5-2 lbs
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16 weeks old – 3-4 lbs
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6 months – 4.5-6.5 lbs
Chicks grow rapidly in the first few months, then their growth rate slows as they near maturity. Proper nutrition is key for healthy development.
While it takes time for them to reach full adult size, their gentle personality and prolific egg laying abilities make them a top choice for chicken keepers. Just be sure to give them adequate coop and run space to accommodate their large stature.
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Brahma Chicken Egg Production
In addition to their size and beauty, Buff Brahma Chickens are also valued for their egg-laying capabilities. Even though they aren’t the most prolific layers, they do lay a good number of big brown eggs. Brahma chicken eggs are known for their rich flavor and sturdy shells, making them a favorite among egg enthusiasts.
The Brahma Chicken breed is known for its variety in color, contributing to its appeal among poultry enthusiasts. Brahma Chickens come in a variety of colors, which helps them stand out and makes the flock more interesting. They are one of the largest chicken breeds.
Buff Brahma Chicken
This variation displays a golden buff color across its plumage. The Buff Brahmas feathers have a light golden hue, offering a soft and warm appearance that is appreciated by many.
Light Brahma Chicken
Characterized by its contrasting white and black feathers, the Light Brahma Chicken has a predominantly white base with black markings around the neck, tail, and wings. This contrast creates a distinct and attractive pattern.
Dark Brahma Chicken
The Dark Brahma Chicken has predominantly black feathers with white markings on the neck, saddle, and tail. This color variation has a more subdued elegance, with the contrast providing visual interest.
Blue Partridge Brahma Chicken
Unique among the Brahma variations, the Blue Partridge Brahma has a bluish-gray color due to a dilution gene affecting the black pigmentation. This results in a muted, soft appearance that adds a unique color option to the breed.
Partridge Brahma Chicken
The Partridge Brahma Chicken has a rich and complex color pattern thanks to its mix of reddish-brown and black feathers. This variation brings a sense of depth to the breeds appearance. Partridge Brahma chicks develop their color variation as they age.
Silver Penciled Brahma Chicken
The Silver Penciled Brahma Chicken showcases a pattern of silver and black feathers. The base color is silver with black lines or penciling, creating a detailed and intricate design. This color variation is notable for its distinct and refined appearance.
These color variations within the Brahma Chicken breed not only underscore the breeds status as one of the larger chicken breeds but also highlight its diversity. The range of available colors allows for customization and variety in building a flock, meeting the preferences of chicken enthusiasts looking for specific traits such as size, egg production capabilities, and aesthetic appeal. However, the American Poultry Association recognizes this short list of colors for Brahma chickens: Light Brahma, Dark Brahma, Buff Brahma, Black Brahma, and White Brahma.
Brahma hens are known to have a tendency to go broody. Broodiness is a natural instinct in hens where they develop a strong desire to incubate eggs and raise chicks. Brahma hens, with their nurturing and maternal instincts, may exhibit broody behavior more frequently compared to some other chicken breeds. When a Brahma hen goes broody, she may become dedicated to sitting on a clutch of eggs, often refusing to leave the nest and becoming protective of her eggs. This broody behavior can be advantageous for those interested in hatching their own chicks or expanding their flock.
Brahma Chicks are a delight to raise, and have to be one of the easiest to raise. Chicks that we hatched with broody hens, or incubated have consistently had less issues as chicks. Be careful to separate these adorable babies, as they distinctly tower the other baby chicks inside the brooder, and while they are docile in nature, accidents like smothering smaller baby chicks can and do happen by complete accident. When breeding Brahma Chickens, it is important to select healthy and well-tempered parent stock to ensure the best quality offspring. The chicks are known for their fluffy down feathers, which gradually give way to the characteristic buff plumage as they mature.
As with any breed, proper care and nutrition are essential for the healthy development of Buff Brahma Chicks. Providing a balanced diet, adequate shelter, and regular veterinary check-ups will help ensure their well-being. It is also important to provide them with enough space to roam and exercise, as their size requires ample room to thrive.
Characteristics of the Buff Brahma Chicken
One of the most remarkable features of the breed is the size of Brahma chickens. Distinguished as one of the largest chicken breed in the world, it is also one of the most beautiful chicken breeds with their unique appearance. Many argue the Brahma breed is the largest chicken in the world, credited to various altered photos of giant Brahma chickens circulating the internet today. Indeed amongst the largest chicken breeds in the world and arguably a favorite. However, the Jersey Giant Chicken would win this prize. Still, the Brahma chicken is no small contender, with the Brahma roosters reaching an impressive weight of 12 to 14 pounds, while Brahma hens typically weigh between 9 and 11 pounds. Their size alone makes them a sight to behold in any flock.
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Despite their imposing size, Buff Brahmas are known for their gentle and docile nature. They are friendly, calm, and easily handled, making them an excellent choice for families and beginners in poultry keeping. Their laid-back temperament also makes them great additions to mixed flocks, as they tend to get along well with other breeds.
The Brahma Chicken is known for its distinctive appearance. It has a broad, muscular body with a deep, wide chest. The feathers are soft and fluffy, giving the bird a regal and majestic appearance. Brahma chickens are known for their unique and distinctive feathered feet. Instead of having the typical scaly appearance, their feet are covered in soft, fluffy feathers. This feature is often referred to as “furnishing” or “feathering” on the feet.
Brahma chicken with feathered feet: one of the reasons that poultry enthusiasts love this breed! The feathering on the Brahma chickens feet starts from the shanks and extends all the way down to the toes. The feathers are long, abundant, and have a soft texture. They can vary in color depending on the variety of Brahma but are typically in harmony with the overall plumage color.
The purpose of the feathered feet in Brahma chickens is not only for aesthetic appeal but also for practical reasons. The feathering helps to protect their feet from cold weather and harsh conditions. It acts as insulation, keeping their feet warm and preventing frostbite during winter months. Additionally, the feathering on their feet can help them navigate through snow or muddy terrain by providing better traction and stability.
Its important to note that the feathering on the feet of Brahma chickens requires regular maintenance. The feathers can accumulate dirt, debris, and moisture, which may lead to matting or potential health issues. Therefore, its recommended to keep their feet clean and dry, and occasionally trim any excessively long feathers to prevent any discomfort or hygiene problems.
Overall, the feathered feet of Brahmas chicken are not only a unique and eye-catching feature but also serve a practical purpose in providing protection and stability for these majestic birds.
Brahma chickens typically have a pea comb. The pea comb is a small, compact comb that is characterized by three distinct, rounded points. It is named after its resemblance to a pea pod. The pea comb of a Brahma chicken is relatively low and close to the head, with the three points evenly spaced along its length. This type of comb is less prone to frostbite and is well-suited for cold climates, which is beneficial for the Brahma breed known for its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. The pea comb of a Brahma chicken adds to its unique and charming appearance.
Brahma Chicken Size, Egg Laying, Height and More…
FAQ
How large does a Brahma chicken get?
Brahma Chicken Size Roosters can reach a height of 30 inches and hens around 26 inches. This substantial size is a testament to their heritage as one of the largest chicken breeds globally.
What is the largest breed of chicken?
The largest breed of chicken is the Jersey Giant. They are known for their impressive size, with roosters weighing 13-15 pounds and hens weighing 10-12 pounds.
What are the cons of Brahma chickens?
Chapter 9: Pros & Cons of Brahma ChickensProsConsLarge eggsCan go broody oftenCold hardyFeet can get irritated if not regularly cleanedWon’t fly any higher than 3-4 feetWill need to make coop, run & nesting boxes largerLove to snuggleTakes longer for them to start laying eggs.
Why are Brahmas so big?
Early breeders crossed these Chinese birds with other large breeds, like Malay and Cochin chickens to create the Brahma. Their impressive size made them a popular choice for meat production in the 1850s, and they quickly became the go-to chicken for American farmers.
How big does a Brahma chicken get?
While this breed can be as tall as 30 inches, the average Brahma chicken size is n’t much larger than other chickens – although they have the nickname “gentle giant” and are often compared to a Jersey Giant. Even in our own flock, they vary in size, with one about 8 inches tall and another about 18 inches tall.
How much space should a Brahma chicken have?
Brahma chickens should be given 5-6 square feet of space inside the coop, given their large size. This is slightly more than your average breed of chicken. If you give them any less space, they might pick at their feathers, peck, or act in ways that are similar to bullying.
Can a Brahma be a chicken?
Nowadays Brahmas are kept as pets and egg layers in backyard flocks – although there are still those that use them for table fare. But if you’re interested in birds that are large and in charge, the Brahma is but one of many giant chicken breeds.
How long do Brahma chickens live?
Brahmas chickens live on average 5 to 8 years depending on the care they receive, just as any other breed of chicken. According to Guinness World Records Matilda was the oldest living hen at fourteen years of age.
How many eggs does a Brahma chicken lay?
The Light Brahma chicken is a great egg layer, producing large brown eggs. On average, they lay around 3-4 eggs per week. Also, these eggs are bigger than eggs from many other chicken breeds. Each one weighs about 55 to 60 grams on average. The Buff Brahma Chicken is another popular variety of the Brahma breed.
How long does a Brahma chicken take to grow?
This breed grows very slowly compared to medium breeds, which can finish growing by 6 months to 1 year. Slow growth is partly due to the large size in which they become, which naturally takes longer, but it’s likely that genetics is a factor too. How Much Space Do Brahma Chickens Need?.