Cochin

Egg Size:

Medium

Purpose:

Ornamental

Egg Color:

brown

Egg Laying Rating:

Fair

Chicken Size:

Large

The Cochin (pronounced as ‘coach-ins’) also known as Cochin China or Shanghai China was originally bred in the Shanghai District of China in the early 1850s. While this specific breed of chicken is not famous for its ability to lay egg, it became most prominent when it was given as a gift to Queen Victoria of England during the 1800s. In the mid 19th century, the breed was exported to United Kingdom and the United States. Today, the Cochin is one of the largest breeds among people who keep poultry as a hobby.

Cochins are one of the largest breeds of chicken because it weighs heavily. Cockerels can weigh up to 5 kilograms while the hens at about 3.9 kilograms each. Because of their enormous size and the number of heavy feathers that they have, Cochins often suffer from slow metabolism and heart problems. Therefore, they need a healthy lifestyle and an appropriate enclosure where they can freely move and exercise. In spite of this, they can tolerate wintry weather and are surprisingly hardy during the cold season.