Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Indian Game

The Indian Game, also known as the chicken, is a breed of domestic originating from , , developed in the early through crosses between indigenous game fowl and imported Oriental breeds such as the Aseel. Characterized by its muscular, heart-shaped body and distinctive upright carriage, the breed features males weighing up to 10.5 pounds and females around 8 pounds, with close-fitting feathers in colors ranging from iridescent greens and buffs to solid whites, small pea combs, and yellow beaks and shanks. Primarily valued for meat production due to its rapid growth and firm-fleshed carcass—often marketed as the "Cornish hen"—it is also used in crossbreeding programs to produce commercial broilers like the Cornish Cross, though it lays fewer than 160 small to medium tinted eggs annually and is not favored for egg production. Originally named the "Indian Game" around 1820 by breeder Sir Walter Gilbert, who crossed Black Breasted Red Game chickens with Red Aseel imports from , the breed gained recognition for its fighting qualities before being standardized for exhibition and table use. In 1910, the American Poultry Association officially renamed it the Cornish to honor its roots, distinguishing it from the more slender Indian Game variants still shown in the . Today, the Indian Game or Cornish is classified as a "Watch" breed by conservation organizations due to declining purebred populations, with efforts focused on preserving its for sustainable . Despite its docile in hens, roosters can exhibit aggression, making it suitable for free-range or spacious environments where its active foraging nature can be expressed.

History

Origins in India and Early Exports

The roots of the Indian Game breed lie in the indigenous gamefowls of , particularly the Asil (also known as Aseel), an ancient strain originating from the that has been selectively bred for over 2,000 years. Historical records indicate that , a practice central to the development of these birds, emerged during the around 1500 BCE, with early references to rooster combat in ancient Indian texts reflecting its cultural significance in principalities and festivals. These indigenous fowls were valued for their robust physique, derived from long-standing traditions of breeding fighting cocks in regions like and . In , cockfighting traditions profoundly influenced the selective breeding of these gamefowls, emphasizing traits such as exceptional strength, agility, and endurance to excel in ritualistic and competitive arenas. This cultural practice, documented in ancient codes like the and later medieval texts such as the , drove generations of breeders to prioritize birds with powerful builds and aggressive temperaments, laying the genetic foundation for what would become the Indian Game. The Asil, in particular, exemplified this heritage, with its tall stature, tight feathering, and muscular frame honed through centuries of combat-oriented selection. The early exports of these birds to began in the 1820s and 1830s, facilitated by the Company's maritime trade routes that brought Asil- and Malay-like gamefowls from and to ports such as Falmouth and in and . These imports, arriving on trading vessels amid broader exchanges of exotic animals and goods, introduced tall, oriental game strains that captivated British breeders seeking to enhance local . Key figures like Sir Walter Raleigh Gilbert of , , played a pivotal role around 1820–1835 by importing these birds and initiating crosses with native British game strains, such as the Aseel with English Black-Breasted Reds, to create the foundational stock of the Indian Game. This initial adaptation marked the transition from Indian origins to British development, though formal recognition came later.

Development and Recognition in Britain

The development of the Indian Game breed in Britain began in the early , primarily in the counties of and , where breeders crossed imported Asian birds such as the Asil from with local English Game fowls and later incorporated influences to enhance size and structure. These initial crosses, initiated around 1820 by figures like Sir Walter Raleigh Gilbert, aimed to produce superior gamecocks but resulted in a tall, angular bird with a rangy build suited more for utility than combat prowess. By the 1840s, such breeding efforts had spread, with the first public exhibitions of these birds occurring outside the at Shows in 1858 and 1859. The Cruelty to Animals Act of 1835, which prohibited in , marked a pivotal shift for the breed, redirecting breeding focus from fighting to meat production and exhibition. This legislative change emphasized the Indian Game's potential as a table bird due to its muscular conformation and efficient feed conversion, leading to for broader breasts while retaining a distinctive tall stature in early standards. The first formal breed standards were published in 1865 by the Poultry Club of Great Britain, which included the Indian Game among a handful of recognized breeds and highlighted its utility traits over ornamental or aggressive qualities. In 1886, the formation of the Indian Game Club in further standardized and promoted the breed, establishing rules for conformation, color, and breeding practices to preserve its unique characteristics amid growing interest in utility . The club, still active today, played a key role in maintaining breed purity during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as breeders like John Pomroy and William Brent popularized it through shows and selective crosses that refined its hard-feathered, deep-bodied form. This era solidified the Indian Game's recognition as a foundational British breed, influencing modern meat production lines while prioritizing its historical Asian heritage.

Physical Characteristics

Body Conformation and Size

The Indian Game chicken exhibits a distinctive body conformation characterized by a thickset, compact, and muscular build that reflects its gamefowl heritage, with a broad, deep chest and powerful, sloping back that tapers toward the tail. This upright carriage, often described as commanding and bulldog-like, features short, stout legs set wide apart for stability, contributing to a low-slung posture rather than exceptional height. The overall frame is angular yet solid, with prominent shoulder butts and a well-rounded that emphasizes meat production potential. The breed has two main strains: the exhibition strain (A-type), which is taller and more slender with a more upright, game-like posture, and the / strain (B-type), which is shorter-legged and more compact for meat production. In terms of , standard Indian Game roosters typically weigh at least 3.6 kg (8 lbs), while hens range from at least 2.7 kg (6 lbs), though actual weights can vary slightly based on lines and , often reaching 4–5 kg. Bantam varieties are proportionately smaller, with cocks at around 2.0 kg and hens at 1.5–2.0 kg. Height at the is generally moderate, not exceeding typical dimensions due to the short leg structure, which supports a robust but grounded stance rather than elongated proportions. Skeletal features include a broad skull, short and stout beak, and muscular thighs with round, thick bones that enhance strength for agility. The wings are small and held closely to the body, minimizing drag, while the tail is medium-length with a slight droop in males. Toes are straight, strong, and spreading, with the fourth toe positioned low and nearly flat to the ground for balance. Despite their robust constitution, Indian Game chickens can be prone to leg issues, such as poor form or strain, attributed to their widely spaced hips, short legs, and rapid muscular growth, which may lead to mobility challenges if not managed with adequate exercise and footing.

Plumage, Color Variations, and Comb Types

The plumage of the Indian Game chicken is characterized by short, hard, and close-fitting feathers that contribute to its robust appearance and suitability for . This tight feathering extends across the body, with males exhibiting abundant, iridescent and feathers, while females display a denser fluff beneath a similar but less pronounced structure. The tail is notably short, featuring prominent feathers in cocks that add to the breed's distinctive . Accepted color varieties in the Indian Game include the Dark, which features a black base with glossy green sheen and bay or chestnut accents on the neck, shoulders, and wings in males, contrasted by a rich chestnut-brown ground with black lacing in females; the Wheaten, displaying wheaten hackles and saddles with black breast in males and wheaten plumage laced in black for females; and the Jubilee, marked by white plumage with chestnut shaftings in males and chestnut-brown with white lacing in females. Other recognized varieties encompass Black, showing lustrous green-black surfaces; White, entirely white in plumage and undercolor; and Double Laced Blue, featuring even blue tones with darker blue on the head and bay accents in males, over a chestnut ground with blue lacing in females. Bantam varieties mirror these colors in miniature form, maintaining the same patterns and sheen. The is of the pea type, small, firm, and closely set on the head with three longitudinal ridges, the center one double in height; it is bright red in color. Wattles are small, smooth, and brilliant red, complementing moderate-sized earlobes that are also red and almond-shaped. in is evident, with males showing more vibrant in and feathers, often in , , or wheaten tones against darker body colors, and a carried at approximately 45 degrees above . Females, in contrast, have subdued lacing on brown or wheaten grounds, with tails held closer at 30 degrees and a fuller underfluff for protection. These differences are key to breed standards and enhance the visual appeal in shows.

Temperament and Behavior

Behavioral Traits

The Indian Game chicken, derived from crosses between English Game cocks and aggressive Oriental fighting breeds such as the Aseel and , exhibits a bold and assertive rooted in its gamecock ancestry, often manifesting as territorial behavior and pronounced intra-male among roosters. Males are often pugnacious. This heritage, intended initially to produce superior fighting birds though ultimately unsuccessful in that role, predisposes roosters to and dominance displays, making them vigilant protectors of their but challenging to house in groups larger than one mature male without careful management. While some individuals may direct toward humans if not handled regularly, the overall disposition remains calm and docile when socialized from a young age, allowing for reduced fighting tendencies through consistent interaction. Chicks tend to be more cannibalistic than in some other breeds. In flock dynamics, hens display strong broody instincts, frequently going broody and serving as protective mothers, though their high activity levels can sometimes limit their effectiveness as setters. These hens are assertive in establishing , often seeking dominant positions without excessive , and pair well with a single vigilant rooster who monitors the group effectively. Roosters, when managed with a small of hens rather than multiple males, contribute to stable interactions by focusing protective behaviors on the group rather than rivals. The breed demonstrates high energy through active on the ground, scratching and pecking for and greens, yet remains less flighty than lighter breeds due to its heavy, muscular build that limits aerial escapes. Vocalization is prominent, with roosters engaging in frequent crowing to assert and attract mates, a trait amplified by their origins. Early not only mitigates but also enhances their adaptability, turning potentially combative birds into reliable, responsive companions in controlled environments.

Suitability for Different Environments

Indian Game chickens excel in free-range systems, where their active nature allows them to thrive as proficient foragers in spacious outdoor areas. Their preference for such environments stems from a need for ample space to express natural behaviors, though secure —typically at least 3 feet high—is essential to prevent wandering due to their exploratory tendencies. In these settings, they demonstrate hardiness against common environmental stressors, contributing to their suitability for pasture-based rearing. In confined housing, Indian Game birds can tolerate coops provided sufficient space is available to accommodate their large size and allow for the separation of males, whose aggressive traits may lead to conflicts in tight quarters. They require low perches to suit their heavy build and additional shelter to protect their tight, thinner feathering from drafts. However, they are not ideal for small backyard setups, as overcrowding exacerbates their space demands and potential for intra-flock tension. Regarding climate adaptability, Indian Game chickens are hardy in temperate conditions like those of the , where they originated, but their tight feathering offers limited insulation against cold, necessitating protection during harsh winters. and are crucial to mitigate overheating in intense conditions. For compatibility in mixed flocks, Indian Game birds pair best with calm, docile breeds that can withstand their occasionally assertive demeanor, as roosters in particular may exhibit aggression toward smaller or more submissive companions. They are not recommended for integration with bantams or lightweight varieties due to significant size differences, which can result in bullying or injury during establishment of pecking order.

Primary Varieties of Indian Game

The Indian Game breed is divided into large fowl and bantam size classes, with the latter representing a miniature version that maintains the same distinctive conformation of a long, deep body, wide breast, and horizontal carriage, but scaled down proportionally. Large fowl roosters typically weigh around 3.6 kg in British standards, while hens weigh 2.7 kg; in contrast, American standards for the equivalent Cornish breed specify larger sizes, with roosters at 4.8 kg and hens at 3.6 kg. Bantam weights vary by region: in the UK, roosters weigh approximately 2.0 kg and hens 1.5 kg; in the US, roosters weigh about 1.25 kg and hens 1.0 kg, allowing for exhibition in smaller formats without altering the breed's core structure. Color varieties of the Indian Game emphasize laced or solid patterns that highlight the breed's hard-feathering and glossy , with standards varying by region. In the , the Poultry Club recognizes three primary color lines: (double-laced black with green sheen), Jubilee (double-laced chestnut-brown with white edging), and Double Laced Blue (a variant of the laced pattern). These varieties feature black or white lacing on a base of black, chestnut, or blue, with roosters displaying iridescent and saddles. In the United States, where the breed is standardized as by the American Poultry Association, color varieties are recognized separately for large fowl and bantams. Large fowl varieties include , , , and White Laced Red. Bantam varieties include Black, Blue Laced Red, , , Mottled, Spangled, , and White Laced Red. These American lines often exhibit broader color diversity due to historical crossbreeding influences. Regional strains reflect these standards, with Indian Game birds generally adhering to lighter, more refined frames suited to , whereas Cornish strains are bred for greater mass and meat yield, resulting in noticeably larger birds overall. Some color lines in both regions show subtle down color differences at hatch that can aid in early gender identification, though this varies by strain and is not universally standardized.

Distinction from Modern Game and Other Gamefowls

The Indian Game, a breed developed in during the early , differs markedly from the , which emerged in the as an ornamental variety bred specifically for exhibition following the UK's ban. While the Indian Game features a stocky, muscular build optimized for meat production, with cocks weighing 3.6–4.1 kg and a compact body conformation emphasizing breadth over height, the is characterized by an exaggerated tall, slender stature—often reaching 70–80 cm or more at the shoulder—with long legs and a sleek, upright carriage designed for show aesthetics rather than functionality. This distinction arose as breeders refined the from Game influences and Oriental imports to prioritize visual appeal, resulting in hard, close-lying feathers and minimal value, whereas the Indian Game retains a more robust, broad-chested form suited to table bird production. In comparison to other gamefowls of Asian origin, the Game is a hybrid derivative rather than a pure import, setting it apart from breeds like the Aseel and Shamo. The Aseel, an ancient breed originating over 2,000 years ago and primarily developed for , is smaller and more compact, with cocks typically weighing around 2.5 kg, a pronounced upright , and a fiercer, more pugnacious temperament focused on stamina in combat rather than meat yield; it served as a key ancestor in the Indian Game's creation through crosses with English Game , but lacks the latter's heavier bone structure and broader body. Similarly, the Shamo, a breed derived from Thai fighting fowl (likely influenced by Aseel stock) and imported to in the , shares the Indian Game's muscularity and game heritage but is taller and leaner, with cocks up to 5.6 kg and a distinctive or pea comb, emphasizing agility and height over the Indian Game's stockier utility frame. These differences highlight the Indian Game's in for dual-purpose traits, contrasting with the Aseel's pure fighting lineage and the Shamo's oriental show and combat refinements. Genetically, the Indian Game has played a foundational role in modern , particularly as a parent breed in the development of the through targeted crosses that enhanced meat qualities for commercial production. In the United States, where the breed is commonly known as , it contributed to hybrids like the Cross , which dominates the global due to its rapid growth and high breast muscle yield derived from the Indian Game's broad chest and close feathering. This utility focus distinguishes it from ornamental gamefowls and underscores its influence on breeds prioritizing economic traits over exhibition. Common misidentifications often confuse the Indian Game with direct imports from , such as the Aseel, but it specifically refers to the standardized utility type established in around 1820, refined from Asian game imports for local agricultural needs rather than preserving unaltered oriental strains. This adaptation avoids the fighting attributes of Asian forebears, positioning the Indian Game as a distinct, purpose-bred variety in Western .

Uses and Management

As a Meat Producer

The Indian Game chicken, originally developed in the early for its game qualities, transitioned to a primary role in meat production around 1880, when emphasized its muscular build for table birds rather than fighting, significantly influencing the development of modern strains through crosses with breeds like . This breed exhibits moderate growth performance compared to commercial hybrids, with table birds typically reaching market weight at 12-16 weeks of age, allowing for a more natural maturation that enhances quality over rapid commercial cycles. Its physical conformation, characterized by broad and substantial musculature, contributes to high meat yield, with notable emphasis on breast and portions. Dietary management for Indian Game emphasizes balanced rations with 18-22% crude protein to support muscle development, often supplemented by opportunities that reduce feed costs and align with the breed's foraging instincts. This approach leverages their adaptability, allowing access to or to meet nutritional needs without excessive concentrate reliance. In contemporary markets, Indian Game appeals to gourmet and consumers for its richer flavor profile, derived from slower growth and diverse muscle fibers, distinguishing it from the milder taste of fast-growing broilers and commanding premium pricing in niche segments focused on sustainable, flavorful .

Exhibition and Show Standards

Preparation for exhibiting Indian Game birds emphasizes achieving optimal conformation, plumage quality, and vitality, typically starting 4-6 weeks prior to the show with specialized conditioning diets rich in proteins and vitamins to enhance sheen and while highlighting the breed's upright and robust type. Trimming of the , toenails, and spurs (for males) is conducted 1-2 weeks before the event using appropriate tools like plier-style clippers to ensure a neat, show-ready without over-trimming, which could cause discomfort or injury. Judging criteria for Indian Game at poultry shows prioritize breed type and overall conformation, with established standards allocating points across key attributes to evaluate adherence to the ideal form. According to the Open Poultry Standards for the breed, the scale of points is as follows: Type and Colour (53 points), Head (17 points), (12 points), (10 points), and (8 points), totaling 100 points, reflecting an emphasis on the bird's structural integrity, plumage patterns, and presentation. These criteria align broadly with American Poultry Association guidelines for related varieties like , where conformation and type form the foundation of assessment, though exact weightings may vary by jurisdiction. Indian Game birds, particularly bantams, have achieved notable success in major exhibitions, such as the National Poultry Show, where they frequently secure top placements in hard-feather classes for their striking appearance and adherence to standards. Bantam varieties are especially popular in these competitive classes due to their compact size and vivid color variations, often dominating entries and wins at events like the Scottish National Poultry Show. Breeding programs for have long focused on selective lines that prioritize aesthetic qualities—such as deep, broad breasts, tight feathering, and precise lacing—over purely utilitarian yield, a shift evident since the breed's in the early 20th century when show benches influenced development away from initial table bird emphases. This ornamental value has sustained the breed's presence in competitive displays, with breeders maintaining distinct show strains to meet judging ideals.

Conservation and Current Status

Population and Breeding Challenges

The global population of Indian Game chickens remains small, estimated at fewer than 10,000 individuals worldwide as of 2025, reflecting its status as a rare heritage breed. , where the breed is often referred to as , there are fewer than 5,000 breeding birds across ten or fewer primary flocks, contributing to its "Watch" conservation status by . This limited scale underscores the breed's vulnerability to risks, exacerbated by historical crossbreeding that has blurred lines and complicated identification. In the , is classified as a "" breed on the (RBST) watchlist since 2024, alongside all native breeds, due to declining flock numbers and ongoing threats from and economic pressures on small-scale farming. The breed's regional status is vulnerable, with effective population sizes contributing to broader concerns over in , as highlighted in recent assessments of diversity. In contrast, populations in the appear more stable, supported through registries like those of the American Poultry Association, which recognize the breed and facilitate exhibition and breeding programs. Key breeding challenges include , which reduces and overall flock health in small, isolated populations—a common issue for rare breeds on the RBST watchlist. This has led to diminished fertility and hatchability in some lines, often necessitating due to the breed's characteristic short legs and massive breast development that hinder natural mating. Additionally, competition from fast-growing hybrid broilers has curtailed demand for the slow-maturing Indian Game as a producer, further pressuring maintenance. To mitigate these issues, breeders recommend with related gamefowl varieties to restore vigor and diversity without compromising breed standards.

Role in Poultry Preservation Efforts

The Indian Game chicken receives dedicated support from organizations focused on rare breed conservation, including the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) in the UK, which classifies it as a priority breed on its watchlist to promote breeding and prevent further decline. In the United States, The Livestock Conservancy (formerly the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy) lists the closely related Cornish variety—historically known as Indian Game—as a "Watch" status breed, emphasizing efforts to maintain genetic integrity through registry programs and breeder networks. These organizations collaborate with breed clubs, such as the Indian Game Club established in 1886, to shift focus from historical fighting uses to sustainable table bird production following the UK's 1849 cockfighting ban. Preservation actions for the Indian Game include participation in annual breed shows organized by bodies like the Poultry Club of , which facilitate evaluation and promotion of specimens to encourage wider breeding. Genetic diversity is further safeguarded through inclusion in international gene bank projects, such as the SYNBREED Chicken Diversity Panel since 2019, which sequences and archives DNA from Indian Game samples to assess genomic variation and support conservation breeding. Additionally, the breed contributes to hybrid development by crossing with other lines to enhance traits like disease resistance, drawing on its inherent hardiness against common ailments while preserving ancestral bloodlines. The Indian Game plays a key ancestral role in commercial strains, notably as a foundational in the development of the broiler, a globally dominant created by crossing Indian Game-derived with Rocks for rapid meat production. Its educational value lies in heritage farming initiatives, where it exemplifies traditional free-range systems and maintenance, helping farmers and enthusiasts understand sustainable practices beyond models. Looking ahead, the breed's potential for growth aligns with rising sustainable meat trends in , supported by trials like the Innovative Farmers programme testing chickens for lower emissions and ethical production. EU-wide grants totaling €132 million in 2025 for promoting high-quality, sustainable agri-food products could support awareness and market development for breeds like the Indian Game.

References

  1. [1]
    Cornish Chicken - The Livestock Conservancy
    Jan 8, 2025 · The Cornish, first known as the “Indian Game” chicken, was developed around 1820 by Sir Walter Gilbert of England.
  2. [2]
    Asil - The Poultry Club
    The Asil is probably the oldest known breed of gamefowl, having been bred in India for its fighting qualities for over 2,000 years. The name Asil is derived ...
  3. [3]
    [PDF] THE HISTORY OF COCK-FIGHTING - Aviculture Europe
    Feb 15, 2014 · However the first written proof comes from India were cockfighting took place at principalities, about 1500 years B.C. In the times before ...
  4. [4]
    Asil AKA Aseel Chicken Breed: Birds With Attitude
    Jul 10, 2023 · Newill from Pennsylvania got his birds from India in 1931. The breed arrived in England before making it to the U.S. and were documented in 1846 ...
  5. [5]
    (PDF) THE HISTORY OF COCK-FIGHTING - Academia.edu
    However the first written proof comes from India were cockfighting took ... van Ballekom) Left: Ancient cockfight, time and location unknown. (Archives ...
  6. [6]
    9. Cock fighting described in the Manasollasa
    Nov 18, 2024 · A small arena for actual cockfight should be prepared. It should be circular and thirty cubits in circumference. There a Vedika or a raised 93 ...
  7. [7]
    The Asil - FeatherSite
    Bred in India for over two thousand years for its fighting qualities, its very name means "of long pedigree" in Arabic. It was bred in its native land to fight, ...
  8. [8]
    Indian Game | Rare Breeds Survival Trust
    Sep 11, 2017 · Indian Game were developed in Cornwall and Devon using birds (such as Asil and Malay) brought in to Falmouth and Plymouth from Asia and local ...
  9. [9]
    The East India Company and Natural History Collecting - NatSCA
    Apr 22, 2021 · From 1820 – 1850s, the India Museum collections grew as specimens where transported back to London. Many of the early 19th century bird ...
  10. [10]
    The Complex Chronicles Of The Cornish Chicken - Hobby Farms
    May 11, 2020 · Originally known as the Indian Game, due to its Aseel ancestry, Gilbert's purpose was to create a speedy and powerful fighting bird. He started ...
  11. [11]
    Breed History - The Indian Game Club
    The breed of poultry we now know as Indian Game has its origins hidden in the mists of time but it has been told by our fellow Victorian fanciers that a ...
  12. [12]
    Cornish Chickens - Hobby Farms
    Feb 4, 2011 · History: Around 1820, Sir Walter Raleigh Gilbert of Cornwall, England, developed a chicken breed he called the Indian Game using bloodlines from ...Missing: key | Show results with:key
  13. [13]
    Cockfighting | Spectacle, Animal Welfare & Culture | Britannica
    In varying degrees, cruelty to animals is illegal in most countries, and interest in endangered species gave further impetus to the anticruelty movement in the ...
  14. [14]
    Indian Game - The Poultry Club
    The breed has been developed for its abundant quantity of breast meat, in which respect no other breed can equal it.
  15. [15]
    British Poultry Standards
    The first Standards produced in 1865 were for just a handful of breeds to try and maintain uniformity; it was not until the turn of the century and the ...
  16. [16]
    The Indian Game Club: Home
    The original Indian Game Club was first established in 1886 in Cornwall though the breed was certainly in existence many years before this date. · The standards ...Breed History · Breed Standard · Contact Us · LinksMissing: formation | Show results with:formation
  17. [17]
    Indian Game - Open Poultry Standards Australia
    Oct 10, 2022 · The general characteristics are similar to those of the cock, allowing for the natural sexual differences. Weight not less than 6 lb.
  18. [18]
    Indian Game Chickens - Poultry Keeper
    These were thought to have been imported by the Phoenicians to Cornwall, South West England, around 850 BC. They frequently visited Cornwall to purchase tin, ...
  19. [19]
    Cornish Fowl (Indian Game) | CABI Compendium
    Cornish Game poultry were developed in Cornwall in the south-west of England from the 1820s to the 1840s. Asil and black-breasted Old English Game formed the ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  20. [20]
  21. [21]
    Indian game chicken questions - BackYard Chickens
    Feb 6, 2024 · I heard that you have to make sure that indian game chickens get enough exercise to make sure they don't get any health problems. How would ...
  22. [22]
    British Poultry Standards [7 ed.] 9781119509141, 1119509149
    Face, comb, wattles and ear-lobes rich red. Legs rich orange or yellow, the deeper the better. Jubilee Indian Game Male plumage: Head, neck, breast, body ...
  23. [23]
    Cornish Chickens - Breeds of Livestock - Oklahoma State University
    They are very protective mothers but are almost too active to be good brood hens. ... "Breed Profiles: Indian Game/ Cornish Game Hen." The Illustrated Guide to ...
  24. [24]
    Indian Game - Poultry Hub Australia
    The rather large and stocky bird is not well known for their egg producing ability (they can produce 160-180 eggs per annum), but are decent table birds.
  25. [25]
    Cornish Bantam Baby Chicks for Sale - Cackle Hatchery
    In stock Rating 5.0 (2) Dec 25, 2015 · Weights – Hen ——- 36 oz Rooster—- 44 oz. Pullet ... The American Poultry Association (APA) subsequently changed the breed name to Cornish.
  26. [26]
    Breed Standard - The Indian Game Club
    The females chosen for mating belonged to breeds possessing white flesh and shanks. Jubilee Indian Game are similar to Indians, but the lacing is white, in ...
  27. [27]
    Breeds & Varieties - The American Poultry Association (APA)
    Accepted Breeds and Varieties ; Bantam, American Game, White ; Bantam, Ancona, Rose Comb ; Bantam, Ancona, Single Comb ; Large Fowl, Anconas, Rose Comb ...Poultry Breeds · Newly Added to Standard · Adding a New Breed or VarietyMissing: plumage | Show results with:plumage
  28. [28]
    [PDF] APA Recognized Bantam Breeds and Varieties
    APA recognizes bantam breeds like Ancona, Ameraucana, American Game, Cornish, Crevecoeur, and Cubalaya, among others.
  29. [29]
    Modern Game Chickens - Poultry Keeper
    During the First World War, (large) Modern Game declined in popularity. Since they were purely an exhibition breed that was fetching high prices, newcomers ...
  30. [30]
    Aseel Chicken - The Livestock Conservancy
    Jan 8, 2025 · Aseel chickens, meaning "pure," were developed for cockfighting, have muscular bodies, short feathers, and are known for being pugnacious. They ...
  31. [31]
    Shamo Chicken - The Livestock Conservancy
    Jan 8, 2025 · The name “Shamo” was a Japanese corruption of the word “Siam.” The breed is actually a strain of the Asil (Aseel) chicken.
  32. [32]
    [PDF] Evolution in Broiler genetics, Provides Improved Performance ...
    Early 'Cornish. Indian Game' was used for cockfighting, but since around 1880 it has been bred for exhibition or for breeding broilers (Scrivener, 2009). This ...
  33. [33]
    Around what age to start eating roosters | BackYard Chickens
    Sep 25, 2021 · Cooking technique and temperature available to use are determined by the age of the bird. ... Cornish game hens used to be a 12 week Indian game ( ...Missing: maturation | Show results with:maturation
  34. [34]
    Cornish Chickens of All Kinds - What's the Difference?
    Nov 15, 2022 · They were also known as Indian Game Birds (and cornish game hens) ... Cornish Cross needs high protein feed to grow properly (20-22% protein) ...
  35. [35]
    26 Best Heritage Chicken Breeds For Meat Production - The Phat Hen
    Apr 11, 2024 · The list showcases 26 of the best Heritage breeds for meat production. Many heritage birds are raised for their flavor, not the amount of meat they produce.
  36. [36]
    Fitting Chickens for Show - The American Poultry Association (APA)
    Toenails should be clipped 1-2 weeks before the show. Never wait to clip toenails until after you have washed the birds. Toenails which are too long are ...Missing: Indian | Show results with:Indian
  37. [37]
    Preparing for a Show - The Poultry Club
    Make sure that the birds? claws and beak are trimmed - be careful not to overtrim them. Dog or plier toenail clippers are the correct shape for this. All shows ...Missing: Indian Game conditioning
  38. [38]
    National Poultry Show 2014 Results & Photos
    The Supreme Champion was a Black Rosecomb Bantam. Other champions included a Light Sussex, White Silkie, and Black Indian Runner Duck.
  39. [39]
    Scottish National Poultry Show - The Indian Game Club
    Scottish National Poultry Show. Judge: Andy Marment. Champion Indian & Best Large Dark – A. Stanley. Best Opposite Size & Best Jubilee Bantam – DA Nesbitt.
  40. [40]
    [PDF] 2025 CONSERVATION PRIORITY POULTRY BREEDS
    Critical (C) Fewer than 500 breeding birds in the United States, with five or fewer primary breeding flocks (50 birds or more), and an estimated global.
  41. [41]
    Chicken watchlist | Rare Breeds Survival Trust
    Chicken watchlist. Since April 2024 all Native Chicken breeds are PRIORITY breeds on the RBST Watchlist. Leghorn.Missing: population | Show results with:population
  42. [42]
    Assessing available genetic diversity estimates of rare breeds of ...
    Sep 25, 2025 · We searched for inbreeding, diversity and Ne estimates for all species identified on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust's 2024-2025 watchlist for ...
  43. [43]
    [PDF] Review: Estimates of livestock genetic diversity in the UK - bioRxiv
    May 17, 2025 · (2) compare number of populations on the UK's Rare Breed Survival Trust (RBST) ... charity that conserves and promotes native livestock and equine ...
  44. [44]
    12 Reasons for Low Fertility in Chickens and Other Poultry
    Apr 2, 2020 · Inbreeding Depression. Fertility issues may arise in a small inbred population. By concentrating genes, inbreeding creates uniformity of size, ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  45. [45]
    [PDF] National Show Schedule 2024.pub - The Poultry Club
    Oct 20, 2024 · All birds must be penned by 08:30 hours on the Saturday. No late admiance. 8. Feeding and watering will be the responsibility of the exhibitor.
  46. [46]
    The SYNBREED chicken diversity panel: a global resource to ...
    May 7, 2019 · The SYNBREED chicken diversity panel (SCDP) is made available to serve as a public basis to study the genetic structure of chicken diversity.<|control11|><|separator|>
  47. [47]
    A gene bank's collection of genetic diversity among minor chicken ...
    Our goal was to evaluate genetic diversity of 10 heritage/fancier chicken breeds that are a component of the national collection.Missing: Conservancy | Show results with:Conservancy
  48. [48]
    Innovative Farmers trial heritage chicken breeds to protect ...
    Jun 30, 2025 · A group of farmers across England are trialling a selection of heritage chicken breeds that could cut emissions, end the culling of male chicks ...Missing: trends 2023
  49. [49]
    €132 million to promote sustainable and agri-food products
    Dec 12, 2024 · The Commission will allocate €132 million in 2025 to co-fund promotion activities for sustainable and high-quality EU agri-food products in the internal market ...Missing: Indian Game chicken meat trends 2023-2025<|control11|><|separator|>