Cubalaya
Gallus gallus domesticus
✨ Wissenswertes
The Cubalaya is the only national breed of Cuba and was developed specifically for the hot, humid Caribbean climate where most European breeds struggle to thrive. Its distinctive 'lobster tail' — where the tail droops downward rather than rising in the typical fanlike spread — is found in very few other breeds worldwide and is one of the Cubalaya's most recognisable hallmarks. The breed's name is a portmanteau of 'Cuba' and 'Malay', directly acknowledging its Asian heritage.
Cuba's only recognised chicken breed, developed in the late 19th century by crossing Oriental game breeds brought to Cuba — primarily Malay, Sumatra, and other Asian fighting breeds — with European stock, to create a productive, heat-adapted dual-purpose bird. The Cubalaya is distinctive for its lobster tail (drooping tail held low and sweeping downward rather than erect), pea comb, and graceful carriage. Admitted to the APA Standard of Perfection in 1939, the Cubalaya is kept both for egg production and as an exhibition breed, and is well-adapted to hot, humid climates. It remains relatively rare outside of Cuba and the southern United States.
🏷️ Rasse
Cubalaya
💭 Temperament
Active, proud, heat-tolerant, males can be assertive
📏 Größe
Medium (2.3-3.2 kg)
⏳ Lebenserwartung
5-8 years
🎨 Farben
Black-breasted red, white, black — several colour varieties; distinctive lobster tail
🌍 Herkunft
Cuba — late 19th century from Asian game and European stock; APA Standard 1939
🏠 Lebensraum
Free-range preferred; thrives in tropical and subtropical climates
🍽️ Ernährung
Layer pellets with extensive foraging
🎯 Zweck
Dual Purpose
🥚 Eifarbe
Tinted
👑 Kammtyp
Pea