Barnevelder Bantam
The Barnevelder bantam is the small version of the Dutch Barnevelder chicken, bred to keep the breed's broad shape and patterned plumage in a lighter, more compact bird. Double-laced brown is the classic variety, although other colors are kept in some countries and clubs. Like the large fowl, it belongs to Gallus gallus domesticus, but it is used more often for exhibition and ornamental backyard keeping than for serious egg or meat production.
Barnevelder bantams fit well in smaller poultry setups if their run is secure and dry. They lay small brown eggs, with egg color usually lighter and less commercially important than in large-fowl lines. Good breeding stock should show clear lacing, a balanced body, sound legs, and enough vigor to hatch and rear strong chicks. People buying them for shows should check the standard recognized in their country, because accepted colors and details can differ between registries and poultry clubs.
Colors: Barred, Birchen, Black, Blue, Brown, Buff, Columbian, Crele, Cuckoo, Duckwing, Gold, Gold Laced, Laced, Lavender, Mille Fleur, Mottled, Partridge, Penciled, Porcelain, Red, Silver, Silver Laced, Spangled, Splash, Wheaten, White
