Cubalaya

Cubalaya is a Cuban chicken breed developed from Asian gamefowl ancestry, including Sumatra and Malay-type influences, and shaped into a national breed. It is recognized by a long, low, balanced body, pea comb, glossy feathering, and a sweeping tail carried in a lobster-tail shape. The breed has been used for meat, eggs, exhibition, and gamefowl heritage, which gives it a different feel from both heavy farm breeds and modern hybrids.

Cubalayas often suit keepers who appreciate active, rangy birds with room to forage. They may mature more slowly than production layers, but patient breeding can produce strong bodies and impressive type. Housing should protect tails from damage and give males enough space to avoid constant conflict. Breeders should select for the tail, carriage, fertility, and useful flock behavior, not only for dramatic color. Buyers should ask whether the line is maintained for show, farm utility, or preservation, because selection goals can differ widely.

Colors: Barred, Birchen, Black, Blue, Brown, Buff, Columbian, Crele, Cuckoo, Duckwing, Gold, Gold Laced, Laced, Lavender, Mille Fleur, Mottled, Partridge, Penciled, Porcelain, Red, Silver, Silver Laced, Spangled, Splash, Wheaten, White