Cara Wheeldon explores the resilient, mischievous nature of the bantam chicken…

As the crisp October air settles in and the autumn leaves fall, I find myself in a familiar scene –chickens running rampant in the back garden, taking down anything that still stands and somehow finding a way past the chicken-proof fencing. Without fail, the moment our pens are open, it’s a race to the top of the garden, trying to stop the birds from creating mayhem. Yet, everyday we let them free-roam, they somehow sneak their small bodies under the fence to sit with us at the outside table. It’s a sight that always brings a smile to my face, reminding me of the lively, unstoppable energy these chucks bring, even as the days grow shorter.

As if that was not bad enough, in our household, we find ourselves in a constant battle of wills between us and our cockerels – each side believing they know best how to care for the feathered flock. Determined and stubborn, our cockerels often give us a detailed argument about all the naughty fun we’ve ruined with our practicality. But despite their headstrong nature, whether cockerel or hen, one thing is clear: even as winter approaches, when it comes to bantams, there is still plenty of mischief to be had.

Their compact size and spirited personalities make them a fantastic addition to any flock, especially as winter rolls in. Bantams are surprisingly hardy and adapt well to smaller spaces, making them perfect for backyard setups. Their ability to forage efficiently and their tendency to be excellent brooders also sets them apart. With a good selection of boredom breakers and plenty of perching space, these tiny birds are content in nearly any environment you can throw at them.

What truly makes bantams unique, however, is the joy they bring to those who keep them. Whether it’s their quirky antics, varied and vibrant plumage, or how they fit right into your arms, bantams have a funny way of winning over even the most seasoned poultry keepers. They add a layer of charm and diversity to a flock that standard chickens often don’t – each with a unique personality that keeps you on your toes.

In this visit to ‘Bantam World’, I’m excited to dive deeper into why bantams deserve a place in every chicken keeper’s heart. We’re featuring expert advice on how to get your Silkie chickens ready for a show in advance of the Eden Valley championship hosted in late November. We will also be looking at one of the hardier bantam breeds, which is perfect for those concerned that their small size and docile characters may make them more susceptible to the elements.

As we prepare our flock for winter, I am reminded that although bantams may be small, they have a huge impact on everyone they meet – just like the connections I hope to share with you through these pages. So, as you cosy up with this November issue, I hope you find both inspiration and practical advice to help your bantams (and your larger flock members) thrive this season.

Image caption: Cara with some of her flock

This article extract was taken from Bantam World in the November 2024 edition of The Country Smallholder. To read the latest issue, focusing on the subjects mentioned above, you can buy the issue here.

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