Pekin Chickens: The New Zealand Keeper's Guide
~100 small tinted eggs a year · Bantam · the friendly feather-footed pet
The Pekin is a true bantam, a small, round, feather-footed bird with a friendly nature that makes it a favourite as a pet and a children's first chicken in New Zealand. It comes in a rainbow of colours.
Eggs and laying
Around 100 small tinted eggs a year. Like other bantams it is kept for character and charm rather than for filling an egg basket.
Temperament
Friendly, calm and tame, happy to be handled and easy for children. They take up little space, which suits a small backyard.
New Zealand climate fit
The feathered feet dislike wet and mud, so a dry run is essential through New Zealand winters. Otherwise hardy enough for most districts in a dry coop.
Care notes
Keep the feathered feet clean and dry to avoid mud-balling and mites. Their small size means they need protection from cats, hawks and dogs.
More breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pekins good pets?
Excellent. They are small, friendly, tame and colourful, which makes them a favourite first chicken for children and keepers with limited space.
Do Pekins lay many eggs?
No, around 100 small eggs a year. They are bantams kept for personality and looks rather than production.
Do Pekins need special care?
Mainly dry footing. The feathered feet suffer in wet, muddy conditions, so a dry run and clean feet keep them healthy through winter.