The Brahma

 

Also known as the furry footed chicken. Little is known about the original breeding of these chickens other than the name comes from the Brahmaputra River in India. Some poultry historians believe the Brahma are the same birds as the Chittagongs of India. Others speculate they came from the immigrants crossing Chinese Shanghia chickens with the Chittagongs in the early 1840's in California.

 

The more modern Brahma is slow to mature and is also one of the largest chicken breeds. They have a level back line, but their long feathered legs, arched neck, and short tail gives them a upright posture. These physical traits with lovely color patterns make them a magnificent-looking bird.

 

They are not the best egg layers but lay a large brown egg throughout the winter months. The hens go broody, yet can break their eggs due to their size. They need lots of room and do better with access to the outdoors. They are mellow and quite hardy, stand up well in both heat and cold temperatures.  

 

One of the more interesting qualities of the Brahma chicken brees is that they come in a range of colors:

Black, buff, dark, light and white.

Pea combs and medium waddles, both red. All Brahmas have feathered feet. He roosters can weigh up to 12 pounds and hens 9.5 pounds.