Part of the Breed Profile series, learn more about Copalaya chickens, a Cuban breed.
Date
The Copalaya Magnificent Chicken is now known as a Cuban breed, but was developed from Sumatran and Malaysian birds brought from the Philippines to Cuba in the mid-1900s.y horn and then re-crossed with several European bird breeds. It was first recognized in 1935 as a distinct breed by the Asociacion Nacional de Avicultura (Cuban National Poultry Association). The Copalaya was first shown in the United States in 1939, as a Standard and Bantam breed by the American Poultry Association.
features
Primary use: Meat
print: Friendly, mild and curious
Size: A standard medium sized breed, Bantams are medium to large
Egg production per year: 150 to 200 small eggs
egg color: Green- to brown coloured
weight rate: Standard adult roosters average 6 pounds (2.40 kg), while adult hens average 4 pounds (1.59 kg). Bantam cocks weigh about 1.6 pounds (740 g), while hens weigh 1.3 pounds (625 g).
physical properties
Copalayas have been selectively bred for their broad, extended “lobster” tails that are held about 20 degrees in an upright position. They have a pea comb, a curved beak, and long feathers. While they come in a variety of mixed colors, the most common (pictured above) is the black-breasted variety. Roosters usually have a red neck and back, while hens are dark wheat to cinnamon coloured. Both roosters and hens tend to lighten with age.
Roosters were bred to be non-motivating to prevent the young from hurting each other.
The breed is slow maturing, reaching full adulthood by 3 years.
bosom
Hens are consistent layers with calm dispositions and good maternal instincts. Chicks tend to be friendly and not very skittish.
Health and safety
Copalaya chickens do not have unusual tendencies to disease or disease. They are healthy, calm and beautiful birds.
More resources
Save the cattle
American Poultry Association
American Bantam Society