History
The Nankin is a true Bantam and is regarded by some as being the very first breed of bantam, and therefore perhaps the oldest known bantam chicken variety. They are small, about the same size as a Sebright and it is thought they were probably used in the development of the Sebrights, showing that the breed has been around for a very long time. There is a lot of speculation as to where they came from but they were most likely to have been introduced to Britain from India.
Behaviour
The Nankin is a hardy bird that is relatively quick to mature. They lay a small creamy white egg. The hens are excellent brooders and protective mothers. Nankins are able to tolerate being kept in confinement. Some are fliers, some are friendly. The roosters though reported by some to be aggressive, I find are very tame and none of mine are at all mean. .
Varieties
The body of a Nankin rooster is a Red/buff colour with black main tail feathers, the hens are more yellow than red and also have black in the tails. The comb can be either single or rose. The legs are blue or white in colour. Bacically the Nankin is the same as the Sebright in type and the New Hampshire in colour.

I find this bantam to be one of my favorite of all breeds, they are absolutely beautiful, small and superb breeders, plus very popular and always in demand. (which is a nice quality for any chicken)