GENTLE
Silkies are a unique ornamental chicken breed best known for their soft, fur-like feathers, calm demeanor, and strong brooding instincts. They are kept primarily for companionship, breeding projects, and specialty purposes rather than high egg production.
Breed Overview
History
Silkies have been kept for centuries in Asia and became known in the West through early trade routes. Historical accounts described them as unusual “fur-feathered” chickens, which helped build their reputation as a novelty and ornamental breed. Over time, Silkies became established in Europe and North America, valued for exhibition qualities, gentle temperament, and exceptional broodiness.
Origin
Silkies originated in Asia, most commonly attributed to China, and have been documented for centuries. They were later introduced to Europe and North America as ornamental and novelty poultry.
Weight
- Hens: approximately 2 to 2.5 lbs
- Roosters: approximately 2.5 to 3 lb
Appearance
Silkies are immediately recognizable due to their hair-like plumage, which lacks the typical feather barb structure. Other defining traits include black skin, dark bones, turquoise earlobes, five toes instead of four, feathered legs, and a rounded crest on the head. They are commonly found in white, black, blue, buff, splash, and other color varieties.
Egg Production
Low to moderate.
Hens typically lay 2 to 3 eggs per week, with production slowing significantly during broody periods.
Egg Color
Cream to light tinted.
Temperament
Exceptionally gentle, calm, and docile.
Silkies are known for being friendly, tolerant of handling, and well suited to quiet environments.
Behavior
Silkies are famously broody and make excellent natural mothers. They are less flighty than most breeds and tend to stay close to familiar areas. Due to limited flight ability and soft feathering, they are not strong foragers and require protection from rough conditions and aggressive flock mates.
Hardiness
Cold sensitive. While they tolerate cooler temperatures better than wet conditions, their plumage does not repel moisture well. Dry, draft-free housing is essential, especially in winter.
Purpose
- Ornamental and exhibition
- Broody hens for hatching eggs
- Companion birds
- Specialty breeding projects
Conservation Status
Common.
Conservation Efforts
Silkies are widely bred and maintained by hobby breeders, exhibition breeders, and small farms. Preservation efforts focus on maintaining correct physical traits, feather quality, and temperament rather than increasing population numbers.
Notes
Silkies require extra care in mixed flocks, as their calm nature and limited vision from crests can make them vulnerable to bullying. They are best kept with other calm breeds or in dedicated groups.