Brahma

The King of Chickens, the Brahma never fails to impress with its large size and stately appearance. The Brahma was bred from birds imported into the United States from Asia in the 1840s and was known as the “Shanghai” as that is where the parent stock was imported from.

The Shangshai was then crossed with a bird from India creating it Brahma. Although it was bred predominantly in the US, it can be considered an Asian breed.

They were originally a meat bird before they were replaced by faster growing hybrids. Now they excel as a show bird with their striking colours and stature.

Starting to lay at around 7 months they will give about 200 light brown eggs per year.

While there are only three colours recognized by the American Poultry Association, the South African Show Poultry Organization recognises the following colours:

Dark

Light

White

Gold

Buff Columbian

Blue Light Columbian

Buff Blue Columbian

Partridge

We will have Light Columbian and Gold Brahmas available in Spring, our current Brahmas are a mixed pen with a Gold rooster and mixed hens.

They should have a red pea comb as well as red wattles. Their feet should be yellow and feathered, giving them the appearance of wearing pajamas or slippers.

Brahmas are one of the largest chicken breeds however they are docile and calm, getting along well with other chickens as well as people.

They are not overly broody but will make good mothers. They will lay over winter however due to their size they will consume more than the average chicken.

Brahmas are excellent foragers and their feathered feet will lower the damage they might do to your plants. It is important to note that spending too long on wet soil can be bad for their feet

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