The small print of precisely when and the way Silkie bantam chickens got here into being have been misplaced within the mists of time. The breed was first talked about by Marco Polo, who wrote about “chickens with fur-like feathers and black pores and skin” in his thirteenth century report of his explorations in Asia. Most definitely Silkie chickens existed lengthy earlier than Marco Polo got here alongside.
Bodily Attributes
Historical Silkies had just one selection — white. At this time we have now quite a few coloration varieties, together with buff, black, blue, and splash amongst many others.
The American Normal of Perfection first acknowledged Silkies in 1874 and in the present day lists 13 totally different varieties. Though critical breeders like Cackle Hatchery® breed Silkies to the usual weight of 36 ounces or much less, different sources supply non exhibition strains which will weigh as a lot as 4 kilos or much more.
In addition to their fur-like feathers and pitch black pores and skin, Silkie bantam chickens produce other uncommon bodily attributes. They’ve 5 toes (some have six!), in distinction to 4 toes generally seen in most different breeds.
In addition they have an ample head crest, leg feathers, darkish purple walnut comb and wattles, and turquoise earlobes. The most well-liked varieties even have a beard and muffs.
Breed Qualities
Among the many Silkie bantam’s excellent qualities are persistent broodiness and conscientious mothering instincts. These traits make Silkies invaluable for hatching eggs — particularly these of uncommon or non brooding poultry — with out the necessity for an incubator.
Due to their propensity to brood, Silkie hens usually are not particularly prolific layers. After they aren’t brooding, nonetheless, they’re constant layers of small eggs with tinted shells. They usually usually proceed laying whereas different breeds take a break.
Silkies don’t fly, making them extraordinarily straightforward to restrict. And they’re naturally folks pleasant. Silkie bantam chickens are due to this fact good as pets, particularly for a household with young children.
Useful Hyperlinks
American Silkie Bantam Membership
Look after Bantam Chicks Shipped By Mail
And that’s in the present day’s information from the Cackle Coop.
Gail Damerow has written quite a few books about poultry, together with The Rooster Encyclopedia.
