
	Find out about admissions, directions, a map, suggestions for things to do, and see what's going on behind the scenes.


	Learn how you can use the Zoo to strengthen your children’s connection to nature. Programs, activities, resources and more.


	Our Earth is a beautiful planet. Find out how you and the Zoo can help protect it.


	Discover the variety of programs and events we have throughout the year. Click here and find out what’s going on at the Zoo.


	Become a member and reap the benefits of joining our Zoo family. Donate to the Zoo and ensure we remain a champion for wildlife conservation.


	Uncover the many ways to make a difference at the Zoo and for yourself.


	Book your birthday, party or corporate events here. Get more info about our rentals and spaces too.

	Home \| Contact Us \| About Us \| Press \| Site Map





	Upcoming Events
	September 11 Family Health Fair Learn More
	September 14 - September 15 Zoo Tots Learn More
	We Are Open... 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Directions and Info
	Contact Info: Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo 1875 Noble Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06610 Main Number: (203) 394-6565

Black Cochin Bantams

Black cochins are raised as ornamental birds for their showy feathers. Their soft puffy feathers and thick down undercoat make them appear much heavier than they really are. They were introduced in America in 1845 from Asian poultry breeders and were an instant hit.

At the Zoo we have two females and one male Black Cochin bantam chickens living in the New England Farmyard. Bantams are chickens that are one-forth to one-fifth the size of their original breed. Bantams were originally bred first as pets and for show, but they also do well as backyard flock poultry.

Description:
They have coal black plumage with a greenish sheen. They have a bright red comb and wattle that makes a beautiful contrast with the black feathers.

Habitat:
Cochins have typically been bred to be pet and show birds, so they live with breeders or on farms.

Range:
They originally came from China, where they had been bred domestically for a long time.

Diet:
At the Zoo they get fed chicken feed, cracked corn and, as a special treat, crickets and mealworms.

Lifespan:
They typically live 8- 10 years.

Family Life:
Black Cochin Bantams are very gentle, are excellent sitters and lay lots of eggs. They have great mothering skills and are often used as “foster moms” for other breeds of poultry.

Status:
Not endangered or threatened.

<<< Barred Owl | Back to the Animal list | Black Swan >>>


Visitor Info \| Teachers & Parents \| Conservation Action \| Parties & Rentals \| Members & Donors \| What's New & Events \| Get Involved 1875 Noble Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06610 © 2005-2010 Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo all rights reserved Privacy Policy