Cubalaya

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The Cubalaya is a breed of chicken originating in Cuba. The distinguishing trait of this breed is their long, broad tail—called a lobster tail—carried at a downward angle. In the United States and Europe they are now primarily kept as ornamental and exhibition poultry.

History

In the middle 19th century, the Spaniards brought to Havana, Cuba, several varieties of Asiatic game fowl that originated in the Philippine Islands. The Cubans crossed the Asiatic breeds, and subsequently re-crossed them with birds of European origin.

These birds were then selectively bred for wide, extended tails and a curving beak, fierce eyes, and a courageous expression. In this manner the Cubalaya was created, independent from any scientific control. In 1935, the Asociacion Nacional de Avicultura (Cuban National Poultry Association) approved the breed. Their name was chosen in honor of the Republic of Cuba, which had patronized and refined them.

First shown in the U.S. at the International Poultry Exhibition in 1939, the Cubalaya breed is currently recognized by the American Poultry Association (APA) and the American Bantam Association (ABA).

Characteristics

Cubalayas are characterized by their stately carriage; pea comb; abundant, flowing hackle feathers and long, well-spread tail carried about 20 degrees below the horizontal. They possess a friendly, curious disposition, are very heat tolerant and make excellent foragers when allowed to range. The hens lay small eggs and are good brooders.

The breed has been developed in standard and bantam size. Standard males weigh 4.5 to 5 pounds at maturity, with bantam roosters weighing around 26 ounces. The females are somewhat smaller.

Colors accepted by both the APA and the ABA are limited to black; black breasted red and white, though an array of other colors is found in the U.S.

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