About
The Silkie is a breed of chicken named for its atypically fluffy plumage, which is said to feel like silk and satin. The breed has several other unusual qualities, such as black/blue skin and bones, blue earlobes, and five toes on each foot, whereas most chickens have only four. They are often exhibited in poultry shows, and also appear in various colors. In addition to their distinctive physical characteristics. Silkie chickens have been bred to have a wide variety of colors which include but are not limited to: Black, Blue, Buff, Partridge, Splash, White, Lavender, Paint and Porcelain.
Silkies are relatively small chickens, with the males weighing only 1.8 kilograms (4 pounds), and females weighing 1.4 kg (3 lb). Their anual egg production is an average of 160 eggs per year. Their eggs are on the small side and are a cream colour. They are a calm and friendly breed, but the hens have a tendancy to go broody. They are great mothers and love to raise babies, but sometimes it’s not the right time for broodiness. Check out out broody chicken write up to learn about how to put an end to the broodiness!
These beautiful chickens live an average lifespan of 7-9 years. To keep them healthy and happy, you must keep them in the right environment. They are cold hardy but the coop should still be draft free and well-ventilated. Silkies are not heat hardy but you can keep them cool in the summer with frozen treats, which they will really appreciate!
