Poultry
Pekin Bantam
C tier
Pekin Bantam is a fluffy, low-set true bantam of Chinese origin, related to Cochin type, with abundant soft plumage and a broad, rounded silhouette. Birds are kept mainly as pets and exhibition stock; meat is mild, fine, and available only in small single-portion carcasses. When cooked, young Pekins suit gentle roasting, poaching, or Chinese-style claypot and soup preparations that respect delicate flesh. Commercial significance is ornamental, but backyard flocks occasionally supply household poultry with a soft texture distinct from lean game bantams.
Also known as: Pekin-type bantam, Pekin Bantam, Cochin Bantam, Pekin
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Characteristics
Preparations
Traits
Grading systems
Grades are placed along a shared scale so systems can be compared side by side.
History
Small fluffy Cochins or related bantams from China reached Europe after British and trade contacts with the Chinese coast.
British fanciers developed and popularised the low, rounded Pekin Bantam as distinct from large Cochin fowl.
American poultry standards recognised Cochin Bantams closely allied to British Pekin type.
Specialist clubs fixed colour varieties and the characteristically low carriage of exhibition Pekins.
Global pet and show markets made Pekin Bantams among the most widespread ornamental bantams.