It derives from birds brought to Europe from China in the nineteenth century, and is named for the city of Peking where it was believed to have originated.

[5] The first Pekins are alleged to have been looted from the private collection of the Emperor of China at Peking (now known as Beijing) by British soldiers towards the end of the Second Opium War around 1860.

They are rather round-shaped, and their carriage tilts forward, with the head slightly closer to the ground than their elaborate tail feathers.

Pekin Bantams are very docile, and with careful and regular handling they make ideal pets, especially for families with younger children.

However, the Pekin bantam cocks can still be aggressive and defensive of their territory and mates once they reach sexual maturity, but are generally gentle natured.