Roosters were used for cockfighting from ancient times. The Old English Game (OEG) is probably the first breed of chicken developed in Britain. It was originally a fighting breed, but today--since cockfighting has been outlawed in many countries--it is maintained by fanciers.
OEGs are very hardy and excellent foragers. The hens go broody often and make very good mothers.
There are many varieties in this breed, some examples being the Black Breasted Red, Spangled, Black, Dun Breasted Blue Dun and Brassy Back. Normally a single-combed breed, males were originally dubbed for fighting. This means that the comb and wattles were removed. It made the bird less vulnerable to damage and gave it a more fearsome look. It is still necessary to dub the birds to show them in the US and Britain.
Mature cocks need to be isolated from each other or they will fight to the death, so modern fanciers often maintain the old method of tying the birds out. A ring is put around the rooster's leg and a short leash is attached.
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