This breed’s large size plus feathered shanks and toes make it unforgettable. Perhaps the reason for the nickname “The King Of All Poultry.” Despite being so large, though, the Brahma has a pea comb. The Brahma is docile and friendly. It’s classified as a heavy breed and not known for flight.
- ColorBuff, Dark, Light
- Skin ColorYellow
- LifespanAbout 5 to 8 years
- Weight9.5 o 12 pounds
Origin
Controversy exists regarding the origin of the Brahma breed. The Livestock Conservancy websites states Brahmas were first imported to the United States when China’s ports opened in 1843. The breed was developed in the United States by crossing with a breed from India. After a chaotic time when it was known by numerous different names, The Poultry Club website says a panel of U.S. judges in 1852 made the official name Brahmapootras (after the Brahmaputra river in India); this was then shortened to Brahma. The Heritage Poultry Conservancy website lists India as the origin, coming from crossing a Cochin and Malay. This was imported to the United States and England and further developed to become the Brahma.
Housing And Care
Housing for Brahmas is the same as all chickens need. A chicken coop or shed must provide safety, perches, nest boxes, room to move, be dry, and be ventilated but not drafty. It must contain accessories, such as water and food dispensers. Chickens also require an area for dust bathing, which could be in a run that is part of the coop, attached to the coop, or a fenced area adjacent to the coop.
Food is another basic necessity. Nutritious food is a must. Some chicken breeds also forage when given access to safe, fenced-in areas. Foraging is enjoyable and a fun activity for some breeds, but foraging can never take the place of nutritious chicken food. Supplements also help for different needs. We humbly suggest Booster Berries Enrich for egg laying support, Booster Berries Radiate for feather health, and Booster Berries Senior for older chickens.
Showing And Personality
The Light and Dark varieties of Brahma were recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1874, the first year it published its Standard Of Perfection. The Buff variety was recognized in 1924. Brahmas are available in both bantam and large fowl sizes. In 2023, the Livestock Conservancy graduated the Brahma off of its Conservation Priority List because its population numbers had improved significantly.
All chickens are individuals. Temperament, noise level, egg production, size, and other characteristics can vary. Chickens typically live 7 to 9 years. The information below is for the large fowl Brahma, not the smaller bantam.
Brahma Chicken Overview
Purpose: Egg laying and meat
Egg Production: Good (140+ eggs per year)
Egg Size & Color: Medium to large, brown
Skin Color: Yellow
Size: Classified as Large Fowl by the American Poultry Association; Listed as 9.5 to 12 pounds by Livestock Conservancy
Temperament: Gentle giants, calm and friendly
Noise Level: On the quieter side
Climate Needs: Best in cooler climates
Origin: United States (Asiatic)
Recognized Varieties: Buff, Dark, Light
