History of the breed

Booted Bantam Standard (2017)

These have a complex history which spreads over Great Britain, Germany (where they are named Federfusssige Zwerghühner), The Netherlands (where they are named Sabelpoots) and Belgium (where they were crossed with Barbu d’Anvers to make Barbu d’Uccles). Although Black and White Booted Bantams are believed to have been developed in the UK, all colours of Booteds have been rare here since they were overshadowed by the Barbu d’Uccle when they were first imported in 1911. Fortunately, they are much more popular in Germany and the Netherlands where large numbers in a wide range of colour varieties can be seen at the major shows. There has been a revival of interest in the UK since the 1990s. Booteds have tighter neck feathering than Barbu d’Uccles, with no beard or neck boule. Some young Booteds can seem tall and narrow, but they usually become stocky, compact and full feathered when fully mature.

Rumpless Booted Bantam Standard 2017

The Rumpless Booted originates from the Thüringen Forest region of Germany, in particular the small industrial town of Ruhla in the district. It is a booted bantam, with a stocky, Rumpless and rounded body and a lively and confident nature. Developed more recently than the Booted Bantam, the breed has its own standard. They are known in the country of their origin as Ruhlaer Zwerg Kaulhuhner. Their first recorded appearances in the UK are at shows in 1901 shown as Rumpless Booted, however, there are references in articles taking them back to 1893.