Looking for fluffy type chicken, means you are finding fluffiest as well as friendliest type of chickens. Here we go!
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Silkie chickens! Today, we will cover everything you need to know about these unique and fluffy type chicken breeds.
From their breed guide, characteristics to egg laying habits, incubation tips to climate considerations, cooping, care, management we got covered. Whatever you will be the first-time Silkie owner or a seasoned chicken keeper, this blog post will provide you valuable information on care, maintenance, management, behavior, and cooping for this charming breed.
So, firstly relax, and get ready to learn all about Silkie chickens!
Here’s what we discussed today.
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What is the History of Silkies?
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Why are Silkies so unique?
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How Many Colour Types of Silkie Chickens Are There?
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What is the Unique Silkies Chicken Anatomy?
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Is the Silkie a Bantam Chicken?
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What is the size of Silkies Chickens?
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Are Silkie Chickens Good with Kids?
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Are Silkie Chickens Suitable for Beginners?
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Are Silkies Noisy?
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Do Silkies Mix Well with Others?
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Are silkie roosters aggressive?
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How to tell silkie Hen or Rooster?
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What’s The Lifespan of a Silkie?
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How to Sex and Breed Silkie Chickens
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How Many Eggs Does a Silkie Lay?
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How Big Are Silkie Eggs?
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Can I Eat Silkie Eggs?
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How Long Do Silkies Lay Eggs?
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Do Silkie Chickens Lay in the Winter?
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Are Silkie Chickens Broody?
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Are Silkie Chickens Hardy?
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Are Silkie Chickens Good Meat Birds?
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What are the common Health Risks in Silkies?
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Housing Requirements for Silkies
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Are Silkies the Right Chicken Breed for Me?
What is the History of Silkies?
Silkies Chickens history is from 1000 years ago. These ornamental birds, often called the “oriental gem” of poultry, aligned both Japanese and Chinese cultures throughout their legacy. Marco Polo mentioned this breed in their journal to describe their appearance in the time of travels from China in the 13th century.
After that, this breed spread in North America and Europe, where they were often displayed in circus shows for their strange creatures. Dutch breeders marketed them to customers as a cross between a rabbit and chicken, sometimes even selling them as “Easter Bunnies”.
The soft, silky appearance of these birds charms travelers like Aldrovandi, who documented their unusual plumage in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. By the time they reached the British Isles, many myths about their feathering, with stories of bird-mammals displayed in sideshows.
Some people and chicken keepers believe that Silkies come from Japan and India, but their exact origin is not found. They are mentioned in reports from 770AD while from the 1300s it is mentioned better and documented. The American Poultry Association finally recognized them in their Standard of Perfection in 1874, commenting that the unique chicken breed whose popularity continues today.
Why are Silkies so unique?
Silkies stand out from the chicken crowd in every way possible. Their most striking characteristic is their fluffy, down-like feathers, which is the main reason they’re called Silkies – those silly-soft plumes feel like silk to the touch and are absolutely amazing. Never judge this birdy by its cover though, as they’re soft both inside and outside with their nurturing nature and affectionate personalities that have drawn me to them for years. Perhaps their most cute and rare feature is their dark blue or black skin hidden beneath all that fluff (which is usually white) – this melanism in their connective tissues, called fibromelanosis, is a genetic mutation believed to have come from Asia.
Silkie Chickens, AKA the teddy bears of poultry as they’re commonly known, have a truly unique appearance and docile temperament – two main reasons they’re beloved in backyards around the world. These delightful little birds will charm any flock and bring endless excitement to your backyard. I currently have three adorable Bantams that never fail to entertain visitors with their friendly personalities and cotton-ball appearance. Their gentle nature makes them perfect companions for families with children, and their distinctive look ensures they’re always the conversation starter among chicken enthusiasts.
How Many Color Types of Silkie Chickens Are There?
The American Poultry Association (APA) listed only 6 types of color varieties of silkies, but mainly have 10 types of them. These are
- White
- Black
- Blue
- Buff
- Partridge
- Splash
There are other colors like Red, Gray, Lavender and Cuckoo of silkies but APA are not accepted and also officially are not understood as breed type.
From all those types, White is the most popular because it looks like a snowball and meets the beauty standards more than others.
There could be other two varieties of silkies like some are bearded and some are not bearded. In the US mostly silkies are bearded with extra fluff under the beak. In Europe you might see mostly silkies that are non-bearded, which means you can easily see their earlobe and face.
What is the Unique Silkies Chicken Anatomy?
Silkies are small types of chickens with a rounded, fluffy appearance. The Ladies have pom like feathers while the gents rock have an Elvis look. Their dark skin, five toes (instead of four), turquoise-blue to mulberry earlobes, and compact bodies fit breed size guidelines perfectly.
The most remarkable physical features of Silkies include:
- Turquoise Ears: They have turquoise like ears lobes which does not happen on other types of chickens.
- Pom-like crests that cover their heads (Trimming sometimes necessary for visibility)
- Black Bones: Considered a delicacy in some parts of the world (a trait shared with Mystic and Onyx birds like Ayam Cemani)
- Walnut Comb: Their combs are uniquely shaped like walnuts
- Deep color eyes, blue-tinted beak, wattles with a hint of blue
- Feathered legs with black skin underneath
After raising these enchanting birds for years, I’ve found their soft fluff everywhere is truly their defining characteristic – unlike any other backyard chicken breed.
Is the Silkie a Bantam Chicken?
It’s the most confusing term for new chicken keepers, keep in mind Silkies are true Bantams. Unlike most breeds that have both standard-sized and bantam versions, the Silkie as we speak of today has no true standard or large fowl variants.
When I first started keeping these fluffy creatures, I wondered why they remained so small compared to my other bigger chickens.
The birds bred in Europe and accepted as the original variant carry the bantam label to differentiate them from the slightly larger American U.S. birds.
These two types have minor size differences when comparing them—the European being teeny tiny and dinky compared to American types—but keep in mind both are still considered small by chicken stats when looking at overall poultry sizes.
What is the size of Silkies Chickens?
Silkies are finely compact birds, males typically weighing around 4 pounds and females have 3 pounds. If we talk about height, they are just 8-14 inches tall, these fluffy little creatures are noticeably smaller than average backyard chickens. British Silkies tend to be smaller than their American counterparts, with some bantam varieties weighing as little as 18-22 ounces. Their round, short bodies make them perfect for smaller spaces!
Are Silkie Chickens Good with Kids?
Silkies are perfect kid-friendly birds by their docile nature and fluffy appearance make them attractive to children of all ages. These soft companions remain calm when handled, rarely fluttering away wildly like other breeds.
In my years of chicken keeping, I’ve watched many tiny hands stroke their soft feathers with pure delight. Their presence even makes them popular in animal-assisted programs, honestly making these living teddy bears the ultimate backyard partner for your little ones!
Are Silkie Chickens Suitable for Beginners?
Silkies are perfect for starting out while they look fancy with fluff, they’re actually super easy to care for. They were added to my first chicken list, and I was so nervous, but they made it simple. They don’t mind and stay calm when picked up, and forgive rookie mistakes. If you’re just starting with backyard birds, these friendly fluffballs will help you build confidence without the stress of dainty breeds.
Are Silkies Noisy?
Silkies are considered an exceptionally quiet breed if noise has you concerned. They make a good candidate for urban farms and populated neighborhoods where sound matters. The average Silkie hen chatters with gentle abundance, but never reaches the volume of more vocal chickens.
Silkie roosters crow just like all males, they generally make less noise than other breeds. I wouldn’t recommend keeping any rooster in populated areas, but in my experience, Silkie boys are considered to be quieter compared to larger, louder breeds.
Do Silkies Mix Well with Others?
Silkies are remarkably docile and friendly chickens that generally mix fine with other breeds. Being small, gentle creatures, they rarely fight or become the bossy bird in the yard. My cute, quiet girls have always been the lady of class in my mixed flock.
When introducing new Silkies to your flock, they must be approached carefully and given time for proper integration. Keep them safe in a separate coop initially, as their smaller size and inability to fly makes defending themselves difficult. I’ve found that when hatched together or purchased young, they’re more easily accepted by other chickens.
Are silkie roosters aggressive?
When we talk to some of the silkie keepers, they tell us that their behaviour is that they are calm and not aggressive too much as other types of chicken breeds. While you know boys will be boys, they have all traits like boys.
They are crowded like other chicken breeds but their voices are less louder than others. Silkies roosters are good dads by sharing feed with other chicks.
How to tell silkie Hen or Rooster?
Roosters and hen silkies are easily identified, even if you are a beginner, you can find out by appearance like roosters have bigger combs than hens. Roosters are bolder, may crow or act dominant. Roosters show bigger, more developed wattles. Roosters may grow noticeable leg spurs; hens usually don’t.
You can find it out by taking and comparing them. Another method is to identify them as which one is laying eggs means hen, while which one not laying eggs means rooster. Haha! (Jokes a part)
What’s The Lifespan of a Silkie?
Normally, silkies live between 7 to 9 years but some can live 10 years or more. These factors you can implement to ensure you live more.
- Proper diet
- Clean and safe housings
- With proper care and health checks
How to Sex and Breed Silkie Chickens
Sexing Silkie chicks is notoriously difficult with a large margin for error. Unlike regular chickens, you can’t tell by wing feather differences. As a rule of thumb, wait until six months when roosters develop larger wattles, stand more upright in posture, and begin crowing in the early-morning. Ever noticed how your male fluffball seems more inquisitive?
Breeding these heritage birds happens naturally when roosters and hens are kept together, though human intervention through artificial insemination is sometimes needed for certain color combinations. The rooster’s genetics are dominant, so expect chicks to grow resembling him. After investing in quality stock from reputable breeders, my flock now produces gorgeous chicks with minimal effort. Are you able to maintain both sexes where you live?
How Many Eggs Does a Silkie Lay?
Silkies aren’t champion layers – they typically produce just 2-3 eggs per week (about 120 annually), compared to Jersey Giants at 4-5. Don’t call them free-loaders though! Their production starts around 7 months of age, much later than other breeds, and their small bantam size naturally yields fewer eggs.
Many Silkie owners argue that with proper care and diet, their girls can reach 60% lay rate, but being realistic, expect closer to 15% in winter. My oldest hen decreased to just 1 egg weekly after turning 2+ years old. These sweet birds make up for being poor layers by being excellent mothers – true super-mommas who nurture any eggy they’ve received!
How Big Are Silkie Eggs?
Normally, eggs of this chicken breed are small compared to other breeds. Reason behind small eggs is the size of silkies. Smaller size means smaller eggs.
Can I Eat Silkie Eggs?
Y’all can absolutely eat Silkie eggs! These little treasures are considered even better than regular backyard chicken eggs, being richer and good for you. A recent study by the Department of Foods and Nutrition in Japan found they contain higher nutritive constituents and improved oxidative stability.
When chowing down on these tiny gems from this special breed, you’re getting basically the same stuff as other eggs but with enhanced rheological properties and potentially healthier benefits. I’ve been collecting eggs from my Silkies for years, and their creamy yolks make the most delicious breakfast scrambles!
How Long Do Silkies Lay Eggs?
Silkies start to lay eggs between 7-9 months of age while they Don’t sweat it if your girls are late starters—my pullet was nearly a year old before her first egg, but became a better layer in the long run.
These fluffy birds typically continue producing those yummy little eggs until they’re about two years old, though some exceptional ladies keep laying into their fourth year. After my oldest Silkie turned three, she became more interested in being clucky than filling our breakfast baskets.
Do Silkie Chickens Lay in the Winter?
Generally, silkies are considered to be laying eggs less than other types of chicken breeds. They lay eggs constantly even in colder climates.There eggs are not see what the climate out there is.
Are Silkie Chickens Broody?
Silkies are famously known for their extreme broodiness – they’re blooming-marvelous moms often described as the broodiest bird on the block. Unlike many modern chicken breeds, these hens will abandon their favorite perch and enter a motherly trance, glued to the nest with fierce maternal nature.
Their natural instinct to sit on eggs makes them the perfect go-to-nanny for hatching other poultry’s offspring. This professional momma material is sadly sometimes abused commercially, but backyard keepers treasure these less-successful layers for their exceptional mothering abilities.
Are Silkie Chickens Hardy?
They have so much power to bear every climate change. They can live in cold air and they will live in a hot climate. They remain the same, whether the climate is cold or hot.
As this breed is heat tolerant, there is no need for any shade or specific thing in hot climates. Also, they do not need to be colder except only when the climate is too cold.
Are Silkie Chickens Good Meat Birds?
As these breeds are smaller in size, they are not considered to be good for access to meat production.
What are the common Health Risks in Silkies?
These fluffy birds face many unique health challenges. Marek’s Disease harms Silkies particularly , with this virus potentially affecting half your flock if not you do not cure it timely. I teach the importance of vaccination for all newcomers, when my silkies are affected by illness.
Their fluff gives them a place to live by making the perfect hiding spots for parasites. Weekly checks during gentle handling help to prevent these types of disease before any problem. I’ve found that especially seasonal changes adding vitamins to their water helps maintain their immune systems.
Their distinctive skull structure and small size leave them vulnerable to both injuries and bullying from other breeds. I see that providing calcium supplements like crushed oyster shells prevents egg-laying process especially in deficient hens. By seeing it with proper care, these sweet Silkies can live long, healthy lives in your backyard.
What are Housing Requirements for Silkies?
Silkies need minimal space – about 3 square feet per bird in the coop and 8-10 in the run. As these small chickens can’t fly, their coop doesn’t require great height but must be secure against predators who view these sweet marshmallow birds as delectable treats.
Unlike other chickens that prefer elevated roost bars, many Silkies choose to sleep on the floor. Their fluffy feet with hidden skin can suffer from parasites, so provide clean bedding. I’ve found cedar shavings work well for my flock’s foot health.
During winter days when temperatures dipped to -22 with wind-chill, my Silkies stayed comfortable in their enclosed, draft-free but unheated area. Similarly, in hot, sunny weather, ensure they have roofed, shady spots with plenty of airflow when temperatures climb upwards of 90 degrees.
Are Silkies the Right Chicken Breed for Me?
Silkies might be perfect for you if you want a pet rather than just an egg layer. Their fluffy feathers and gentle nature make them the sweetest birds in my backyard. Kids love these beautiful bantam chickens!
Unlike productive egg layers, Silkies lay fewer eggs and start later than other breeds. But sometimes my hen hatched duck eggs when none of my other chickens would! Their docile temperament makes them perfect for first-time chicken keepers.
The extra care they need with their unique feathers is worth it for the joy they bring. After keeping many breeds, I find these girls to be more like pets than livestock. Finally, I say this is not the breed for you if you need a lot of eggs unless you want chickens with great personalities and friendly nature.