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Information about Cochin chickens: are they good layers?

WELCOME TO A NEW #ASKTHEEXPERT COLUMN WITH MAURIZIO ARDUIN – RÈGIA EXPERIMENTAL STATION OF POULTRY FARMING!

I would like to know if Cochin chickens can also be decent layers.

Cochin chickens are of Chinese origin and were imported to England in the early 1800s.

Selection led to the construction of very large birds, which also increased the richness of the plumage of the tarsus.

Adults easily exceed 5 kg.

A dwarf breed has also been selected with weights of around 7-800 grams.

It is not a good layer.

Is it better to have dwarf or giant Cochins?

They lay pink-shelled eggs and for family consumption we recommend the breeding of dwarf Cochin’s breeds whose eggs weigh 30-35 grams.

Also, can they coexist with Amrock chickens?

As far as cohabitation with other breeds is concerned, all chickens can be kept together, but is important to start with young chicks that are less than 8-12 weeks old.

When keeping several breeds together, it is also useful to consider possible food competition due to size.

If dwarf Cochins (7-800 grams) are kept with Amrocks (3.0-3.5 kg), competition at the feeder is significant and in this case it is recommended to greatly increase (at least double) the number of feeders and drinkers.

It is also possible to keep groups of adults together, taking care to provide each family with adequate shelter, while grazing can be mixed.

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