Why is the black pekin a rare breed of chicken?
Cochins were introduced to North America from China in the early 19th century. Originally known as the Shanghai (a name also used for the Brahma breed of chicken). The Cochin was the breed that launched interest in poultry shows because of the feathering down to the toes. Pekins are recognized as a separate bantam breed in some countries, rather than as bantam Cochins.