Raising Your Own Campine Chicken
The Campine chicken is a regal show and farm bird. It’s origins stem from an area in Belgium of the same name. Today, this chicken is mostly used for show, though it is also a suitable candidate for white egg laying or as a pet. The Campine comes in silver and gold varieties, both a striking and beautiful display.
This bird is an active animal, often seen foraging and mulling about if it is left unattended. These birds are extremely well adapted to an outdoor habitat, and enjoy a free range lifestyle.
They are docile enough to be caged and confined, however. This should be utilized in the winter months, where frostbite or general cold can be an issue to an outdoor chicken.
The breed is rather small, usually four to six pounds. Two colorations are recognized; a silver and gold. A zig-zag pattern can also be present on the bird’s feathers. Their tendency to carry themselves highly makes them ideal show birds, as well as their distinctly exquisite coloration.
By keeping the feathers clean, the bird’s colors can be preserved. Wood shavings are useful in helping with this issue. The birds themselves keep rather tidy.
The Campine is docile, yet not entirely suitable as a pet, as they are independent birds, and other breeds would be better at serving this purpose. They enjoy attempts at flying, as well as socialization with other animals.
They are tolerant of humans, including children, but are still not advised as pets, as they prefer their independence.
As a show chicken, this bird offers much in the way of looks. The gorgeous gold or silver coloration creates an ample pattern among the feathers, sometimes zig-zagged across. The independence of the chicken is relevant in the way it carries itself in shows; highly motivated and regal. However, as this bird is rare, it may not be seen as often as other birds.
In America, the Campine is rather rare, though in parts of northern Europe it is a common sight. Despite this, its large, white eggs are a factor into its inclusion as part of a family. Around three eggs are laid a week.
These are often large and exquisite in appearance. Their ability to produce a healthy amount of eggs each week makes the Campine an ideal producer.
These chickens are hardy, though not extraordinarily so, and thus require adequate housing in colder months. During times of heat, the bird should be let loose and allowed to roam free of any confinement.
Without this need being met, the bird may experience symptoms of paranoia or become unhealthy. By allowing to roam free of its cage, the bird can live up to its full potential in all respects.
Overall, the Campine is a breed of chicken that, while relatively rare, will suit the needs of most bird-owners. Families looking for a breed that does well with children should look elsewhere, however.
Their distinct, vibrant coloration is a factor into their appreciation, as is their ability to produce eggs reliably each week. Their shortcomings are few, and should not be considered as a complete deterrent to their other capabilities.