The Waasse Bantam

Background

The Waasse Bantam, (Dutch): Waasse kriel, (French): Poule naine du pays de Waes, Poule naine Waeslandienne, is a Belgian bantam breed originating from the Land van Waas, a region west of Antwerp. The breed is closely related to the Belgian Bantam, but is distinguished by the rose comb instead of a single comb. This small chicken breed is also popularly called "Steens Kieksken".

Like the "Belgian Bantam", the Waasse Bantam is a descendant of local bantams, which were once spread across Flanders. The exact period of origin is not precisely documented, but it is suspected that the selection of the breed took place in the same period as the Belgian Bantam, namely from the beginning of the 20th century.

The Waasse Bantam is a rare breed, with only a limited population in Belgium, the Netherlands and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Appearance

The Waasse Kriel is a small and graceful chicken breed. The weight is in the same category as the Belgian Bantam:

Rooster: 550 - 650 grams

Hen: 500 - 550 grams

The back is short and flows smoothly into the tail, which is fully feathered in the rooster. The legs are blue. The rose comb is a striking feature and distinguishes this breed from the Belgian Bantam, which has a single comb.

Officially recognized color varieties

Although the partridge color is the most common, there are also a few other, albeit rare, color varieties known in the Waasse Kriel. In various countries, this breed is recognized in various color varieties. The most important associations that record these recognitions are:

- Flemish Interprovincial Association of Poultry Breeders (VIVFN) – Belgium

- Small Animal Enthusiasts Netherlands (KLN) – Netherlands

- African Ornamental Breeders Association (AOBA) – Africa

Population

A census conducted by Mr. Jean Kiala-Inkisi, president of AOBA and member of several poultry clubs in Belgium concluded that in the year 2024 there were only 5 active breeders with a total of only 115 confirmed animals. And possibly another 100 with keepers who do not breed with them.

Characteristics

The Waasse Kriel is an active and lively ornamental breed that can fly well. It is therefore recommended to keep them in a spacious aviary or covered run. They are strong and hardy chickens that can easily adapt to different circumstances.

They can be tamed when kept in a confined space, but when allowed to roam freely, they often remain shy and difficult to approach. As with the Belgian Bantam, several roosters can be kept together without too many problems.

The egg production is low; the hens lay an average of 120 small white eggs of about 30 grams per year. They are known as good broodies.