Campine Chickens’ intelligent nature, upright carriage, and
stunning plumage make them a show favorite. They are rare in America, but they
enjoy popularity in Northern Europe. They are an active breed, and they do
better as show birds and layers than as pets. They weigh only four to five
pounds, but they produce an average of three, medium-white eggs a week on
modest feed.
Although of docile temperament, detractors of the breed
label them “wild.” Campines like their freedom and will chafe at confinement in
good weather. Like many foragers they have an inherent intelligence necessary
for free-range chickens. The term “cocky” applies to the Campine demeanor. They
strut with the spirit of a fowlish thoroughbred. As a group they react to
sudden movement with a flighty response. Their temperament probably accounts
for their near extinction after World War II and their rare status even today.
What Campines lack in personality they make up for in
appearance. They have two basic plumages—the Gold and Silver Campine named for
the splendid hackles around their neck. The gold variety has a orange hackle
starting at the base of the skull stretching to the back cape. Silvers have the
same configuration except with a snowy white hackle. The breast and wing
consist of a gold or silver base color with an intricate, black, zig-zag
lacing. Campines have red pea combs and wattles that stand in stark contrast to
their white earlobes. They have the color of a true, ornamental bantam.
Avid foragers, the Campine needs ample room to roam, so
build an adequate run. Confinement in the summer months leads to a form of fowl
paranoia and generally unhealthy chickens. In winter months, Campines want for
a large coop to protect them from the elements. Keep show fowl on wood shavings
to protect their feathers from damage and dirt. Campines have a flighty
disposition. Keep their environment quiet and calm. They like to fly. Use
fencing wire high enough to prevent their escape.
About Campine Chickens
