Ko Shamo
Gallus gallus domesticus
✨ Fait Amusant
The Ko Shamo's breast is partially naked — the feathers on the front of the keel are sparse or absent, a feature that is not a defect but a defining characteristic of the breed standard. In Japanese aesthetics, this exposed skin on the chest was considered evidence of the bird's muscular development and fighting heritage. The Ko Shamo may weigh less than a large apple, yet displays more personality and presence per gram than almost any other bantam.
A Japanese true bantam derived from the larger Shamo fighting breed, the Ko Shamo ('Ko' meaning small) is a miniature version of one of Japan's most ancient game breeds. Like its large counterpart, the Ko Shamo has an upright, forward-leaning posture, extremely hard and sparse feathering that leaves parts of the breast bare, a broad flat skull, and strong legs. It is kept entirely as an ornamental and exhibition bird in Europe, where it was introduced by Japanese poultry enthusiasts. The EE recognises the Ko Shamo as a true bantam breed. Despite its small size — cocks weigh only around 700–900 grams — it carries itself with the authority and presence of a much larger bird.
🏷️ Race
Ko Shamo
💭 Tempérament
Bold, independent, proud bearing; males can be aggressive toward each other
📏 Taille
Small (0.7-0.9 kg)
⏳ Espérance de vie
6-10 years
🎨 Couleurs
All colours permitted — wheaten, black, blue, grey; sparse, hard feathering with bare breast patches
🌍 Origine
Japan — miniature variant of Shamo; standardised as a true bantam in Japan and later EE
🏠 Habitat
Sheltered housing; managed individually or in pairs due to male aggression
🍽️ Alimentation
Small amounts of high-quality feed; active for its size
🎯 Usage
Ornamental
🥚 Couleur des œufs
Tinted
👑 Type de crête
Pea
🏅 Classe EE
True Bantam