An ornamental large fowl
An immense bird with a deep shape accentuated by feathering, the Cochin was originally a dual-purpose bird, being excellent for table and a profuse layer. Decades of breeding for show, however, have unfortunately meant that the very characteristics favoured for exhibition, such as their profuse fluffy feathers, have rendered most modern-day lines unable to provide many eggs. Imposing in the garden, colours include black, blue, buff, cuckoo, partridge, grouse and white, and the legs and feet are profusely feathered. Easily kept in little space, fences need not be high as they don’t fly well. Their weight also means that perches should be kept low.
