The smallest chickens are the Serama breed, known for their tiny size, weighing only about 13 to 19 ounces and standing around 6 to 10 inches tall.
For poultry enthusiasts with limited space or those seeking unique pets, small chicken breeds offer big personalities in tiny packages. These miniature marvels combine charm, manageable care requirements, and often striking appearances that make them stand out in any flock.
Serama: The Smallest Chicken in the World
The Malaysian Serama holds the title as the world’s smallest chicken breed, typically weighing just 6-16 ounces (170-450g). Developed in the 1970s through crosses between Japanese bantams and local Malaysian bantams, these tiny birds stand only 6-10 inches tall.
Serama Characteristics
- Upright, proud posture with wings nearly touching the ground
- Tail held at 90° angle, nearly touching their head
- Available in three size classes (A, B, C) based on weight
- Come in all recognized chicken color patterns
Unlike larger breeds that require significant space, Seramas need just 2-3 square feet per bird in their coop. However, their small size makes them vulnerable to predators, requiring extra protection. Learn more about protecting small chickens from predators.
Serama Care Requirements
| Age | Brooder Temperature |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | 95°F (35°C) |
| Week 2 | 90°F (32°C) |
| Week 3 | 85°F (29°C) |
Seramas thrive on layer crumble rather than pellets, which are often too large for their tiny beaks. Supplement their diet with mealworms, fruits, and vegetables for optimal health.
Other Notable Small Chicken Breeds
Dutch Bantam
Originating in the Netherlands, these 1-pound birds feature distinctive upright tails and come in various colors. They’re excellent fliers and surprisingly good layers of small white eggs.
Japanese Bantam
Weighing 1-2 pounds, these Japanese natives have short legs and large heads. Their unique appearance makes them show favorites, though they lay few eggs.
Sebright
Developed in England, Sebrights weigh about 22 ounces and feature laced feathers. Uniquely, roosters lack the typical long hackle and tail feathers of most breeds.
Benefits of Small Chicken Breeds
Miniature chickens offer several advantages over standard-sized breeds:
- Require less space – ideal for urban homesteaders
- Eat significantly less feed
- Often more docile and friendly
- Can be kept indoors with proper setup
- Lower noise levels than larger breeds
According to Backyard Chickens, Seramas are particularly known for their affectionate personalities, often following owners and enjoying being held.
Special Considerations for Small Breeds
While tiny chickens are charming, they require some special care:
Temperature Sensitivity
Most small breeds lack the body mass to withstand cold temperatures as well as larger chickens. Provide extra insulation in winter and consider winter care strategies for your flock.
Predator Protection
Standard chicken wire often proves inadequate for protecting small breeds. Use 1/4″ hardware cloth for maximum security against predators.
Social Dynamics
Small chickens can be bullied by larger breeds. Keep them separate or ensure plenty of space and multiple feeding stations if mixing sizes.
Showing Small Chicken Breeds
Many small breeds excel in poultry shows. Seramas have developed their own unique “tabletop showing” style where birds are judged on their ability to pose dramatically on a table. The American Bantam Association recognizes numerous small breeds for exhibition.
Whether you’re looking for a unique pet, an exhibition bird, or simply want to maximize your urban chicken-keeping potential, the world’s smallest chickens offer big rewards in tiny packages. Their manageable size, often vibrant personalities, and striking appearances make them a delightful addition to any poultry enthusiast’s life.