10 of the Smallest Chicken Breeds

The Bantam Breed of chicken is usually the smallest breed of chicken. They can be really fun to breed and or keep as pets. Some even lay a lot of tiny to very small Bantam sized eggs that can sometimes be used as a delicacy.

1. Silkie

The Silkie is a Bantam that is usually in a class of its own, in some countries they are even classed as a large fowl. These friendly little chickens are great to have especially if you have children as they are tougher than they look.Read More2. Belgian Bearded d’Uccle Bantam

The Belgian Bearded d’Uccle is a true Bantam as it does not have any larger counterpart chicken breeds. They have the sweetest of temperaments and are really happy little birds albeit a bit noisy! Read More

3. Belgian d’Anvers Bantam

I do love the Belgian d’Anvers they have really perky little natures and tend to act a lot bigger than they are. They are another true Bantam breed that is well worth owning and makes a great addition to any sized flock.Read More
4. Booted Bantam

The Booted Bantam makes a great little brood hen and they look a lot like the d’Uccle minus the beard. They are very nurturing and caring little birds that just want to be moms!Read More

5. Japanese Bantam

The Japanese Bantam is the shortest of all chickens as they have really short little legs. They are another true Bantam breed that makes exceptionally good brood hens and mothers.Read More

6. Sebright Bantam

The Sebright is another true Bantam breed that comes in two very beautiful laced coloring patterns. They are quite bossy little characters but not at all aggressive they just do not like to get pushed around. They tame easily and make another great addition to any flock as they will not allow the bigger chickens to pick on them.Read More
 
7. Serama Bantam

The Serama Bantam has to be one of my favorites. Not only are the excellent little characters as they look like toy soldiers. Their heads are held right back with their little chests all puffed out. Their tails are straight up with their head nearly touching it. The wings face downward and almost touch the ground making them appear as if they are standing to attention.
They are also the smallest chicken in the world.Read More

8. Sultan Bantam

Sultan Bantams have been the favorite of Sultans for generations and have adorned the palaces as almost a sacred bird. They are beautiful balls of fluff that are quite rare these days. They can be a bit standoffish but can also be tamed. Their feathers, as with the Silkies, do need a bit of taking care of.Read More

9. Rosecomb Bantam

The Rosecomb Bantam chicken is extremely self-sufficient little birds. They do not let their size hinder them in any way. They are also quite friendly and not at all shy. They come in an array of various colors and are a joy to have in any flock.Read More

10. Dutch Bantam

The Dutch Bantam is quite highly strung but is friendly. They are just nervous little birds and look like they have been strung out on to much coffee as they jump at the slightest noise.

If you are new to owning chickens, looking to starting out before making a choice of chicken breed it is best to have a clear vision as to what you are wanting to get out of owning chickens. Are you looking for fresh eggs, a pet, etc? For advice on keeping chickens see our “The first-time chicken owners starter guide”.