Whispering Willows Farm
Large Fowl Cochins
The gentle giants of the chicken world — bred for type, temperament, and that unmistakable cloud of feathers.
The Breed
Built Like a Feather Pillow
Large Fowl Cochins are one of the most iconic heritage breeds in American poultry history. Their massive, round silhouette — created entirely by an extraordinary abundance of soft, flowing feathers — made them the sensation of the 1850s and they've never lost their appeal.
At Whispering Willows Farm we breed Cochins toward the APA Standard of Perfection, selecting for correct type above all else: a deep, broad body carried low and level, a full cushion that extends well beyond the tail, heavily feathered shanks and toes, and a calm, approachable disposition that makes them a joy to work with.
Our Varieties
Colors We Work With
BlackRich, beetle-green sheen over a solid black base. One of the classic Cochin colors and a cornerstone of our program.
Selection Focus
Selecting for tight, even black throughout with no brassiness or white ticking in the undercolor.
BlueA soft, even slate-blue laced with darker blue — one of the most striking colors in large fowl. Blues breed blue, black, and splash.
Selection Focus
Working toward even, medium-blue body color with minimal lacing variation and correct type throughout.
MauveA soft, dilute color with warm rosy-buff tones — a rare and striking variety that turns heads at any show. Mauve is produced through specific dilute genetics layered over buff.
Selection Focus
Selecting for even, consistent mauve tone throughout with correct type and full cushion development.
Bantam CalicoA riot of orange, white, and black in an unpredictable patchwork pattern — no two birds look alike. Our Bantam Calico Cochins combine the breed's signature fluffy type with eye-catching calico coloring.
Selection Focus
Selecting for correct Cochin type and full feathering first; calico color pattern is inherently variable and celebrated for its uniqueness.
Breeding Goals
Bred Toward the Standard
Every selection decision at Whispering Willows starts with type. A Cochin that lacks the correct round, low-slung silhouette and full cushion is not a Cochin regardless of color quality. We cull hard on type and only then evaluate color, feather quality, and leg feathering.
Deep, broad body carried low and level
Full, round cushion extending well beyond the tail
Dense, profuse feathering on shanks and outer toes
Calm, handleable temperament — essential for show birds
Correct color and undercolor for each variety
Interested in Our Cochins?
We offer hatching eggs and occasional started birds when available. Reach out to ask about current availability or to get on our notification list.